Product News

OnRobot has launched a compact, single-pad version of its innovative Gecko no-mark adhesive gripper. The new Gecko Single Pad (SP) gripper brings the same capability to new automation applications with small footprints and lower payload. The Gecko SP is available in three sizes; SP1, SP3 and SP5 named after the gripper’s payload in kilos, featuring ability to lift a wide range of flat, smooth, shiny or perforated surfaces.

Shrinking availability of skilled labor and continual cost-reduction pressures are magnifying the importance of manufacturing systems, services and integrated solutions, according to machine tool importer and distributor Absolute Machine Tools Inc. During more than three decades of selling and supporting a comprehensive selection of machine tools, Absolute has participated in wide-ranging changes in the manufacturing industry. The company concludes that manufacturing success and growth now require engineered solutions that integrate machine tools with automation systems, process design and maintenance services.

Tungaloy is expanding its AH9130 drill head grade series to include the DMP drill head line of the DrillMeister head-changeable drill series.

A universal positioning system that consists of a wide range of components that lets users mount, move to position and then lock devices in space has been introduced by Stafford Manufacturing Corp.

Versa Pullers presents caterpillar pullers, which provide uniform pressure over the entire traction length, thus exerting greater pulling force without product deformation. They are suitable for pliable materials like tubing, extruded profiles, foams, soft extruded materials like weather stripping. Versa series “C” pullers are available in non-motorized versions, which can be included in OEM designs, or in motorized versions that allow “out of the box” productivity.

Methods Machine Tools Inc. has introduced the new Methods MB 450U simultaneous five-axis bridge-type machining center, loaded with features and capabilities for efficiently manufacturing complex parts with a high degree of quality, reliability and accuracy, as well as offered in an excellent value package. Due to the FANUC 31i-MB5 control, this machine is able to perform full five-axis precision machining of challenging parts, significantly reducing the need for multiple setups.

Manufacturers and shippers can easily add corrosion protection to their current packaging process by using Cor-Pak VpCI Stretch Film (Hand Wrap). Cor-Pak VpCI Stretch Film serves the same purpose as normal stretch film but also contains vapor phase corrosion inhibitors that protect metals from corrosion. This is especially important for metal components being prepared for export shipment in uncontrolled environments where fluctuating temperatures and humidity could easily cause condensation corrosion.

W-Type series industrial enclosures for aggressive environments are specially designed for industrial applications operating in where corrosive external agents are present such as saltwater sprays. According to UNI EN ISO 9227, the RoHS 2-compliant chromate conversion coating used on the enclosures has improved 50% more corrosion resistance against the salt spray than the previous version.

Harnessing the power, performance and run-time delivered by M18 Fuel technology, Milwaukee Tool has developed a cordless 8” Metal Cutting Circular Saw. Generating 15-amp corded power on a cordless platform, this new solution is thoughtfully designed to perform in the toughest applications, such as 1” plate steel, angle iron, corrugated decking and 2” black pipe, without slowing users down.

INDEX has announced the launch of its next generation MS32-6 multiple-spindle automatic lathe. This newest version of the six-spindle machine brings the benefits of multispindle technology to a broader range of applications thanks to a flexible tool slide platform that greatly reduces changeover times.

The L.S. Starrett Co. has expanded the horizontal X-axis travel on its HB400 benchtop optical comparator from 12" to 16" (300mm to 400mm), providing users the versatility to measure larger parts on its workstage. Available with optical edge detection, the HB400 model is a workhorse of the broad line of Starrett comparators, providing performance levels previously only available with floor standing machines.

The 8.5-in. x 27-in. vertical machining center provides an economical solution for machining small parts. An automatic toolchanger and eight-tool magazine make the machining center ideally suited for prototyping and short run shops.

BLM Group USA’s Twincut is a CNC tube sawing machine capable of cutting parts in two different lengths simultaneously. Equipped with an automatic feeder, bars are loaded and cut, and then finished parts are unloaded automatically for a continuous, high productivity operation. The double bar configuration more than doubles output, guaranteeing the lowest possible part cost.

Markforged announced the release of pure copper for the Markforged Metal X system, making it a reliable, affordable, and safe way to 3D print the widely used material. 3D printing copper parts on demand will drive new manufacturing and supply chain efficiencies for customers – leading to reduced lead times and part costs, as well as eliminating the need for costly inventory. Markforged provides an easy and fast way to produce geometrically complex copper with high electrical and thermal conductivity.

Greases are a regular part of maintenance and always will be. Moving parts and high-pressure points need lubrication to reduce friction and wear for smoother operations and longer equipment life. The difference today is that maintenance crews no longer have to rely on common petroleum-based greases but can opt for biobased options with lower environmental impact and superior lubricity. Cortec’s broad selection of EcoLine greases make it easy to start the move toward greater environmentally responsible maintenance in any industry.

Walter has introduced the TC410 Advance HSS-E thread former, a versatile new TiN-coated threading tool that’s cost-effective even for small and medium batch sizes. It can be used universally for blind-hole and through-hole threads in most materials having a primary application in ISO material groups P, M and N and ISO K and S as a secondary application.

CMM manufacturer LK Metrology has for the first time diversified into the supply of 3D articulating arm metrology systems with the launch of a range of 24 portable measuring arms called “Freedom.”

EXAIR’s new type 303 stainless steel 2-1/2 NPT threaded Line Vac air-operated conveyors convert ordinary pipe into a powerful conveying system for parts, scrap, trim and other bulk materials. They are ideal for food, chemical, pharmaceutical and medical processes or areas likely to be wet and corrosive, which require the benefits of 303SS including excellent chemical and corrosion resistance, performance in higher temperatures, long service life and low maintenance.

Open Mind Technologies has introduced hyperMILL 2020.1, a new version of its advanced, comprehensive CAD/CAM software suite. In addition to powerful 3D and 5-axis machining enhancements for complex part manufacture, the new version increases ease-of-use and overall programming performance, and includes key new automation and additive manufacturing strategies.

igus has released a new collaborative robot cable management kit with universally-designed hook-and-loop mounting brackets and more than 100 links of the company’s innovative triflex R cable carrier, which offers enhanced cable protection compared to corrugated tubes.