Precision Machining Technology Review: May 2024

Spot Facing, Counterboring Tool Provides Flexible Machining

Source: Heule Precision Tools

Heule Precision Tools introduces Solo L tooling for spot facing and counterboring projects over 25 mm. Front and back counterbores up to 1.95-times bore diameter can be produced in bores ranging from 25.0 - 45.0 mm in diameter.

Solo L features a simple, reliable design which functions without an anti-rotation device, change in spindle rotation, coolant pressure or contact mechanism. This sealed system prevents coolant contamination, and the pin-driven cutting blade, which moves in and out radially, prevents chips from jamming the system. Solo L is designed to be customizable, with the tool’s blade housing, blade control and blades individually designed to meet specific project requirements. This specialized system cuts interruptions and difficult materials like nickel, titanium and other exotic alloys, making it well suited for a wide range of CNC, transfer, multi-spindle and conventional machining applications.

Multitasking Machine Reduces Cycle Times

Source: Methods Machine Tools Inc.

Methods Machine Tools Inc. has released the Nakamura-Tome WY-100V to the U.S. market. The two-turret, twin-spindle precision CNC multitasking lathe is the first of the V series. New AI-infused software releases, enhanced multi-processing features and faster simultaneous operations reduce cycle time up to 30%.

The WY-100V features Nakamura-Tome’s specialized ChronoCut technology to deliver high spindle speeds and milling speeds.

In addition to ChronoCut, the WY-100V’s NT Smart X control features a new 3D Smart Pro AI programming. The support function provides real-time 3D CAD drawing analysis for program creation for all processes from raw material to finished product.

CAD/CAM Software Increases Programming Efficiency

Open Mind Technologies has introduced its latest HyperMill 2024 CAD/CAM software suite, which includes enhancements to its core toolpath capabilities as well as new functionality for increased NC programming efficiency in applications ranging from 2.5D machining to five-axis milling.

Source: Open Mind Technologies USA Inc.

An optimized deep-hole drilling CAM strategy offers improved machining reliability with an interface that clearly defines process-relevant parameters. New capabilities enable coolant and dwell time stages to be identified, enable a chipbreaker to be integrated into a drilling process and more. A new single-tip gun-drill tool simulation provides precise collision checking and a detailed visualization of the stock removal.

HyperMill 2024 includes a new algorithm for three-axis and five-axis, Rest Machining, which provides automatic, complete detection of all rest material areas, in addition to optimized toolpath calculations for faster, more reliable machining. Tool paths are now optimally divided to ensure more efficient machining, and the detection of intersection areas where paths meet has been optimized for collision avoidance.

Shrink-Fit Machine Conserves Toolholder Life

Source: Sowa Tool & Machine Co

Sowa Tool & Machine Co.’s ShrinkSmart shrink-fit machine offers a number of features at an entry-level price point, along with the flexibility to add accessories to the same unit. Users can select their preferred cooling method with accessories that align to their specific needs while their business requirements evolve.

ShrinkSmart’s Smart Coil assesses the distinct resistance of each toolholder to prevent excessive heating, which can lead to hardening or tempering. By doing so, it applies only the correct and suitable amount of heat. Additionally, this feature supports a rapid 2-7 second shrinking cycle.

Collets Enable Accurate Small-Diameter Cutting

Source: Lyndex-Nikken Inc.

Lyndex-Nikken’s MMC Mini-Mini collet chuck is designed to provide accuracy in small-diameter cutting for manufacturers that need more clearance and flexibility in machining. The MMC Mini-Mini collet chuck features a slim and compact body for precision machining with small-diameter tools (up to 0.500"). This will enable high runout accuracy with optimal surface finish and part tolerance.

The MMC collet chuck is well suited for high-speed machining applications where clearance is needed, such as die mold, aerospace and medical parts. The MMC collet chuck is also an alternative to a shrink fit system.

An easy-to-use draw-in collet clamping mechanism (no collet nut required) results in strong, high-precision gripping from the front nose that can access hard to reach areas. Because a collet system is used, tool changeover is faster and less expensive than a toolholding system that requires a machine in order to insert or extract the cutting tool. The collet system for the MMC also allows for a wider range of sizes, while a shrink fit system requires a toolholder for each size of cutting tool.

Drill System Enables Modular Tool Assembly

Source: Tungaloy

Tungaloy has expanded its DrillMeister exchangeable-head drilling tool system by adding 16 new modular drill bodies with chamfering inserts with a TungFlex connection.

Incorporating the performance of a solid-carbide drill with the efficiency of an indexable-insert drill, the DrillMeister exchangeable-head drill system now includes modular drills with chamfering inserts that enable drilling and chamfering in a single operation. These new drills are said to improve machining efficiency and offer versatility in operations like pre-thread drilling. Conventionally, this process requires either two separate tools — a drill and a chamfering tool — or a specially designed combination tool with integrated drilling and chamfering features. The new modular drills come with a TungFlex connection, which makes it possible to build an optimized, tailored drill assembly for a specific application using just standard items.