The Stockpile from October 2024

Zero Point clamping system, laser cleaning system, face milling cutter, and welding automation software.

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GIE Media
PHOTOS COURTESY OF RESPECTIVE COMPANIES

Zero Point clamping system

The Zero Point clamping system and modular clamping rail system enables manufacturers to minimize setup and changeover times along with being designed for precision and high repeatability. These attributes, combined with a quick-change system, help manufacturers create a lean process with setup reduction, workflows, and agility across many applications.

The Zero Point clamping system is an alternative to the conventional T-slot table. Since only one clamping stud is required, setup times are dramatically reduced, and machine capacity is increased. Using a pneumatic system, only 87psi air pressure is required to release the clamping stud. The Zero Point clamping system can be used in any machine shop performing milling, turning, spark erosion, and quality assurance applications.

Clamping pots from 3.5" to 7.5" with a clamping force of 12.5kN to 60kN are available for standard applications to automation. Additional variants with position monitoring function and air coupling are available for automated operation. All clamping pots are available with indexing holes (anti-twist device for single use).

The modular clamping rail system is an alternative to conventional vises for flexible use on the machine tool. The SL080 and SL120 modular clamping rail systems have a clamping force of 20kN or 40kN and enable safe operation even in heavy-duty machining processes. All clamping widths are possible due to clamping rails which can be coupled together infinitely with a high pairing accuracy of 0.001".

With a 50% lower height compared to conventional vises, the modular clamping rail system has maximum use of the Z travel distance. A 70% reduction in weight compared to conventional vises makes them more user-friendly due to their low weight.

Lyndex-Nikken https://www.lyndexnikken.com

Zero Clamp GmbH https://zeroclamp.com

 Laser cleaning system

The CleanTech laser cleaning system for cleaning, finishing, roughening, and surface preparation features mobile connectivity for remote monitoring and control, a new compact form factor for the scan head, and smart overheat protection for added safety. The new offerings provide transportable handheld laser systems for on-the-go applications, Class I enclosed systems for stationary use, and a Robotic Cell unit for automated cleaning.

CleanTech Next-Generation Laser Systems remove coatings and contaminants from a wide variety of surfaces and clean through an environmentally conscious approach.

Laser Photonics Corp. https://www.laserphotonics.com

 Face milling cutter

The DoPent series features economical double-sided pentagonal inserts with 10 cutting edges, designed for face milling operations. DoPent offers reductions in cutting force by 30% and radial forces by 50% compared to competitors, due to its large rake angle and optimal insert positioning. This makes it suitable for machining thin and low-rigidity workpieces. The series also includes the SS-FiT mechanism, which increases rigidity and allows for more inserts on the cutter body without compromising body rigidity, enabling high-efficiency machining. Cutter bodies are available in bore and shank types, with tool diameters ranging from 32mm to 315mm diameter (from 1.260" to 12.400" diameter), including left-hand body options for use in double-headed milling machines. The insert lineup includes six types: the general-purpose MJ type, low cutting force ML type, and wiper inserts. Neutral inserts are also available for left-hand cutter bodies.

The new Neutral AJ type inserts for non-ferrous metals join this lineup. Like their right-hand counterparts, these new inserts feature a ground peripheral surface and polished rake face with a mirror-like finish for sharp cutting edges. This prevents built-up edges to the cutting edge during machining, and achieves a high-quality, glossy finish. The large rake angle and deep inclination ensure excellent chip control with right-hand and left-hand cutter bodies. The insert grade is KS05F, a micro-grain cemented carbide that balances wear resistance and toughness, providing exceptional reliability and long tool life for machining aluminum, copper alloys, and other non-ferrous metals.

Tungaloy Corp. https://tungaloy.com

 Welding automation software

The WeldControl 300 is an operating system for heavy robotic welding automation. Integrated into all robotic welding solutions, the software facilitates offline programming and simulation of robotic welding operations. The software features parametric path creation, as well as copy, mirror, and macro creation. WeldControl 300’s interface and programming reduce ramp-up time and enable welders to become cell operators quickly.

Pemamek’s latest add-on feature to WeldControl 300 Offline, the PathPlanner, automates the creation of collision-free paths. This tool enhances the effectiveness of offline programming and addresses a traditionally time-consuming part of the welding process. It also allows welders with less experience in programming to easily create welding paths.

The PathPlanner optimizes robot movements from approach to welding to exit, ensuring an effortless workflow on even the most complex workpieces. By eliminating labor-intensive path-planning processes, the PathPlanner frees up time for manufacturers to allocate toward other critical tasks. Compatibility with existing 3D models ensures easy integration for advanced welding automation.

AutoScan enables adaptive automated welding with minimal user input. Using sophisticated software and scanning technology, AutoScan creates data-driven, highly accurate welding paths that can then be used on all subsequent workpieces. As a part of the PEMA Core family of software systems, AutoScan is fully compatible with PEMA FMS.

Pemamek Ltd. https://pemamek.com

October 2024
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