CNC & Machine Controls

CNC & Machine Controls 15 Nov 1999

Laser Calibration System Verifies Linear And Circular CNC Accuracy

How do you document that your CNC machine tool is within tolerance? That's becoming a very familiar question as more and more companies implement quality assurance programs, such as ISO 9000, TQM and predictive maintenance.

CNC & Machine Controls 15 Nov 1999

Combination Machines Changing The Toolroom

There's a relatively quiet but relentless change in metalworking toolroom equipment. Handwheels are still there, so manual operation is preserved, but now there is the capacity to operate these machines automatically via CNC or using a combination of manual and CNC. Timing for this additional flexibility is perfect.

Vertical Machining Centers 15 Oct 1999

All-Digital Upgrade Starts At The Low End

An all-digital control package will soon be standard on many machining center models from Cincinnati Machine (Cincinnati, Ohio). For now, the technology is standard on the "Arrow" line of vertical machining centers. Cincinnati didn't begin the upgrade with its high-end machines, but instead with its lowest-cost VMC family.

CNC & Machine Controls 15 Oct 1999

Five-Axis Machining For The Masses

Control technology continues to make five-axis machining easier to use. Many special considerations - particularly qualified tools for pivoting-spindle machines - are no longer essential to the process.

CNC & Machine Controls 1 Oct 1999

A Flexible Turret Index Position

The cutting tools in your turning centers change on a regular basis. To minimize tool change time during setups, many setup people will simply load the tools required for the new job and leave tools in the turret from the last job as long as they don't interfere with the new job.

CNC & Machine Controls 1 Sep 1999

Combining Absolute And Incremental Motions

While we agree that the absolute mode should be your positioning mode of choice for most applications, there are times when incremental mode can be quite helpful. Repeating motions within a subprogram, for example, is one excellent example.

CNC & Machine Controls 15 Aug 1999

Digital Power Feed Increases Mill Productivity And Lot-To-Lot Repeatability

How do you improve the performance of a manual milling machine without the expense of retrofitting a CNC? One answer is with a power feed. But as the demand for faster feed rates, smoother surface finishes and tighter tolerances has grown, the need for improved power feed technology also has grown.

CNC & Machine Controls 15 Jun 1999