CNC & Machine Controls
Ontario Manufacturer Is Driving For Success
Engineers at EXCO were working on a die cast die used to produce the three-liter front wheel drive transmission case for Ford. Similar to work they done before, but this time, they wanted to go straight to steel. 'This was the first job they used computer generated programs to rough machine inserts for this type of part,' said Brian Roberts, NC Coordinator.
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It's A Machine Tool Robot
This machine has a dual identity. It looks like an industrial robot. In some applications, such as assembly, it is. However, put a spindle and cutting tool on the end of this five-axis machine and it becomes a machining and drilling center. The inherent stiffness of the machine's tripod design makes it accurate enough to machine aerospace and automotive applications.
Read MoreEliminating Calculations For Offset Entries
Almost every offset entry requires some kind of calculation to be made before the offset value can be entered. Say, for example, the target diameter for a turning tool is 3.
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Look What's Happened To DNC
Today's DNC systems are doing far more than just moving part programs around. They've evolved into full-blown shop floor information networks.
Read MoreLow-Cost Machines Meet High-End Controls
Mold and die makers have been less than enthusiastic about low-cost VMCs in a large part because their controls typically aren't designed to deliver the high performance 3D contouring capabilities so necessary to cutting cores and cavities. But two companies are out to change all that by bringing together low-cost machining capabilities and high-end contouring control on a single platform.
Read MoreSimplifying Documentation Methods
While most companies take setup documentation quite seriously, many do little in the way of program running documentation. This is documentation aimed at CNC operators to ensure they understand just how a cycle is to be run.
Read MoreSimplifying Operator Responsibilities - Dimensioning Methods
All companies expect quite a bit from their CNC operators. Minimum responsibilities commonly include workpiece load/unload, cycle activation, offset adjustments to hold size, inspections on completed workpieces, and reporting inspection results to the statistical process control (SPC) system.
Read MoreAutomating Milling Machines Expands List Of Machinable Projects
Find out what this manufacturer chose when they decided to automate their milling machines.
Read MoreSoftware Is The CNC
Imagine a computer numerical control (CNC) system set free of proprietary hardware. Two shops discuss their experiences with software-based machine controllers.
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The Shop With A Nervous System
Automatically recording and distributing information about what's happening while a machine tool is in operation leads to process improvements and higher productivity for this aircraft manufacturer.
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