After a good brushing job, it’s time to do a soft buff, but before you begin it’s critical to take a good, long look at exactly how deep the brush marks are. They are probably only .0002 of an inch deep or less, so when you start with the buff, press down with less pressure. [...]
The final step is optional, depending on how good a diamond finish you need. Start by folding a piece of facial tissue into a square – six or 11 layers thick – impregnate it with number three yellow diamond compound, […]
Thermal Load StabilityOxidizing decay of organic components in thermal insulation boards increases with rising temperatures. Continuous thermal load is defined by the temperature at which the application of a particular grade can be technically and economically justified, so that the lifetime will extend to several years. […]
The rubber, plastics and wood panel industries work with heated tooling when material is pressed directly between hot platens. If a platen or heated tool is mounted to the press head, press table or beam without a layer of protective insulation, a considerable amount of heat is transferred to the press and the press heats [...]
Typically in a simulation program, the user designs CAD solids that collectively represent the CNC machine being used to cut the mold. The user also specifies how the solids move and interact, mirroring the operation of the actual machine. Tool, workpiece and spindle attachment locations are defined via user coordinate system (UCS) points consisting of [...]
In addition to simulating and verifying that the NC program produces the correct finished part, the right simulation/optimization software should enable manufacturers to build and simulate entire CNC machines in order to eliminate potentially disastrous machine crashes. A machine crash can be very expensive, […]
To be competitive in today’s international marketplace, NC programs need to be not only fast but efficient. In the case of machining, the most efficient NC program is the one that removes the largest volume of material in the least amount of time. […]
Machining a mold in a virtual environment is quite similar to setting up and running an actual prove-out on the machine tool. First, the user specifies the stock from which the part will be cut, either by entering dimensions into the software or using a CAD model. Then, after selecting cutting tools, […]
TeamworkProduct and mold designers can work through most of the manufacturing issues in advance by teaming up in the early stages of product development as one engineered process. A team of engineers with diverse backgrounds concurrently working together is far more capable, intelligent and talented than any individual will ever be. Part design shouldn’t be [...]
The main advantage of having your tool designer involved earlier is the ability to influence the product and processes being developed. This approach results in added value to your services and creates strong ties with your customer as he becomes more reliant on you to oversee his design process. […]