Technologies Spotted at Westec 2012
Did you miss Westec? If so, here are a few items one editor spotted at this year's show.
Haas displayed a prototype of its new UMC-750 five-axis machining center. Affordably priced, this machine was designed for 3 + 2 machining applications, although its T-slot table enables shops to perform more straightforward three-axis vertical machining. The company expects to start accepting orders for this machine in September 2012.
5th-Axis Fixtures offers a modular, dovetail workholding solution that enable quick changeovers for three- through five-axis machining applications. A precision locating pin helps provide positioning repeatability of 0.001 inch.
Haimer’s compact Power Clamp Nano horizontal heat-shrink device was developed for small interfaces commonly used for micromachining operations (such as HSK 25 to HSK 50 and SK/BT 30). Toolholder cool-down is accomplished via compressed air.
TruTech’s Revolution profile grinding machine features a granite base rather than a weldment for improved rigidity. At IMTS 2012, the company plans to introduce the Revolution Auto version equipped with a three-pallet loading system to enable long stretches of unattended operation.
Korloy’s Power Buster indexable-insert tooling line uses thick, serrated, triangular inserts that divide chips into smaller pieces. This helps lower tool pressure and extend insert life.
KME CNC’s fifth-axis tombstone device was profiled in the February 2012 issue of Modern Machine Shop. The company is working with CNC manufacturers to enable direct programming of its tombstone’s independent servomotors instead of using the accompanying control unit.
Zoller’s new pomSkpgo measuring machine enables shops to accurately evaluate edge rounding on tools either in the quality lab or on the shop floor. It can measure a radius as small as 5 microns.
Samchully offers a variety of workholding solutions for turning centers in addition to vises like this PCV power vise his that can be dialed in to a repeatable, specific torque.
Renishaw plans to develop a larger version of its versatile Equator comparative gage to enable measurement of bigger workpieces.
Knuth’s Classic waterjet line offers six axes of movement to machine intricate components from a variety of materials.
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Although smaller than previous editions, Westec 2012 seemed busy from the get-go. Many exhibitors said they were pleased with the turnout, and you could sense an overall positive vibe in the air while walking the aisles of the L.A. Convention Center last week.
Click through the slideshow below to see just a sampling of some technologies I spotted at the show.
