Plastic injection molds have been used for years to produce high-volume components ranging from bottle caps to dashboards. The mold bases used for this process have always been high-cost, long leadtime items. […]
In 2001, two new types of milling magnets entered the market – magnetic setup blocks and permanent milling magnets. […]
Magnetic chucks are the most flexible type of workholding system for the widest range of machine tools, including horizontal and vertical machine tools, HSM centers, CNC lathes, mills, EDM palletized robotic applications and surface grinders. […]
Employing this technology into a machine tool and spindle service program is the key to achieving overall equipment effectiveness. The right service program should utilize all available assets. It should keep a spindle running in peak condition, which allows it to maintain a high level of quality and production, through regular maintenance. […]
Consider these factors when selecting the type of magnetic chuckImposed LimitThe most obvious limit to using magnetic workholding is that some materials, such as ceramics and plastics, as well as some metals such as stainless steel, aluminum or bronze, cannot be held by a magnet. […]
This component includes both the toolholders and the cutting tools where certain standards must be taken into account in order to be successful in HSM applications. The specified standards pertain to balance, concentricity and spindle connections. […]
In order to achieve the quality and accuracy required in micro-milling while meeting economic constraints, the entire manufacturing chain must be optimized and synchronized. Vendors of CNC machines, cutting tools, holders, clamping tools and quality control equipment are all required to provide the right solution at a competitive cost. […]
The need to maximize machine utilization and capability is a constantly increasing one. Modern machine tools with spindle speeds of 60,000 to 80,000 rpm represent real opportunity to achieve those goals, and are a big part of the ability to achieve high-speed machining (HSM). […]
Everyone intuitively understands that milling machines, holders and tools are difficult to scale down to the microscopic dimensions and extreme accuracy needed for micro-milling. At first glance, software might seem to be an easier fit. […]
Proper application of speed and feed for the material hardness are critical factors for good tool life when hard milling with ceramic inserts. Unfortunately, depth- and width-of-cut, as well as cutter lead angle, are commonly overlooked. A basic understanding of how these factors influence tool life can make a huge difference in metal removal rates. [...]