The Arsenal from Nov-Dec 2023

Metal injection molded firearm parts
Smith Metal Products received the Federal Firearms License (FFL) and adds to its other accreditations including ISO 13485, ITAR, and ISO 9001:2015. Their advanced bridge to metal injection molding (MIM) molded parts capability is supported by 3D binder jet metal printing capability and is designed to help with customers’ research and development (R&D) efforts.

This capability is especially desirable for reducing time-to-market developmental programs, providing form, fit, function, and feasibility testing before mass
production. This capability doesn’t require mold building to evaluate MIM parts and can eliminate or significantly shorten lead time from R&D into full-volume production. Quick-turn short runs are also available.

Many components requiring a manufacturer to have an FFL also need to be made from high-performance, expensive materials such as titanium and Inconel. Smith has experience processing these materials and is willing to develop processes for other high-performance materials. Some MIM parts of expensive materials for extensively hollowed out parts can be provided at near-net shape for less than the raw bar stock needed prior to performing any machining.

Smith Metal Products https://smithmetals.com

2024 SHOT Show Supplier Showcase Booth #52017

2024 SHOT Show Booth #43111

PHOTO COURTESY OF ZEISS

Measuring software
ZEISS Calypso 2023 is the latest version of general measuring software enabling tactile and optical measurements with ZEISS coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) as well as the verification and analysis of the resulting 3D data. It offers, among other benefits, improved fault analysis, optimized workflows for optical CMMs, better usability, and advanced geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) using improved evaluation algorithms according to ISO-GPS and ASME standards.

Users can work with GD&T more efficiently and benefit from quality control advantages.

While optical CMMs are getting faster, conventional evaluation of measurements is still a time-consuming, often manual, process requiring some expertise. The ZEISS Calypso concept of an automated fault analysis ensures automation of the entire evaluation process; the software dynamically recognizes errors in the testing feature and automatically displays all the corresponding information in detail later. There’s no need for the user to spend time creating reports. With the current release, all faults are automatically displayed in an interactive report. Improved automated plots show every detail.

ZEISS CalypsoO offers new evaluation functionalities for CMMs such as ZEISS O-Detect. The overview camera can be used for navigation or to automatically search for geometrical elements in the image acquired. Toolbox reduces the number of working steps and frequently used testing features can be stored as favorites in an individual toolbox.

Users can customize ZEISS Calypso to their needs by adding Calypso freeform or Calypso curve, which offer a variety of additional options.

ZEISS https://www.zeiss.com

Vertical machining center
Mazak’s VC-Ez 32 vertical machining center features the MAZATROL SmoothEz CNC and is optimized for simple operation, fast and easy installation, enhanced ergonomics, stable and reliable part processing, and long-term dependability.

The VC-Ez 32 accommodates workpieces up to 64.17" (1,630mm) long, 28.35" (720mm) wide, and 22.44" tall (570mm), and weighing up to 4,078.50 lb (1,850kg). The ergonomically designed machine features a compact footprint that measures 190.0ft2 (17.65m2).

Standard equipment includes a 40-taper 12,000rpm 25hp (18.64kWh) spindle and 30-tool magazine automatic tool changer (ATC). Options include a 15,000rpm 29.5hp (22.0kWh) spindle with 81.13 ft-lb (110.0 N•m) of torque and a 50-tool capacity tool changer.

The VC-Ez 32 features a C-frame design with X- and Y-axis motion via moving tables and saddles. For rigidity and repeatable part precision, guideway systems use Mazak’s high-rigidity MX linear roller guide systems, and pre-tensioned ball screws ensure precise axis movement.

To streamline VC-Ez machine programming and shorten the learning curve for new operators, the MAZATROL SmoothEz CNC provides dual 800MHz processors, 512MB of RAM, and a 15" capacitive touchscreen including a full keyboard and displaying up to 60 lines of code. Within the control, EIA/G-code and MAZATROL conversational programming languages support programming options directly on the machine, while the MAZATROL TWINS function enables use of Solid MAZATROL and Cutting Adviser through SMOOTH Cam Ai.

The MAZATROL SmoothEz control also features the LAUNCHER interface, accessible in every screen, providing one touch to any required screen selection for seamless operator navigation. To further streamline programming, the control’s QUICK MAZATROL function simplifies program creation and confirmation through touchscreen editing and confirmation of 3D models.

Shops also can opt for a variety of other options including rotary tables, filter tray, dual probe kit, through-spindle coolant, Niagara coolant, hinge conveyor, and Mazak’s SUPERFLOW 1,000psi (6.895MPa) high-pressure coolant system. The optional programmable coolant nozzle and air nozzle are controlled via M-code or from a separate panel to provide hands-free nozzle adjustment.

Mazak Corp. https://www.mazakusa.com