When JEB Precision won an order to manufacture a complex component for an aerospace air handling system, the Northwich-based subcontract manufacturer recognised that its existing production method required an upgrade in order to improve productivity. The solution arrived in the shape of a Nakamura-Tome AS200L-MYS turning centre from the Engineering Technology Group (ETG)
The S130 grade stainless steel parts were required in batches of more than 100 per month, but the existing five set-up process on multiple machines was an unsustainable long-term solution.

With six turning centres from ETG on-site, JEB Precision was already familiar with the extensive solutions available, but this was to be the first Nakamura-Tome machine.

Discussing the project, JEB operations director Michael Bebbington recalls: “Although our Hardinge turning centres are very capable machines, the Nakamura-Tome AS200L-MYS is a twin-spindle machine with milling capability and Y-axis machining that is built on a very robust platform. By investing in this technology, we were immediately able to reduce set-ups, increase throughput, improve process reliability and quality, and free capacity on our other machine tools.”

Before the arrival of the Nakamura-Tome AS200L-MYS CNC turning centre, the 83 mm diameter by 23 mm aerospace part demanded an extensive seven-hour set up time across several machines, although the combined cycle time was only 30 minutes.

The Nakamura-Tome AS200L-MYS at JEB Precision features a Hainbuch collet chuck in the main spindle and a Hainbuch expanding mandrel on the sub-spindle for ID clamping to ensure complete machining in a single operation. The part is machined complete in just 20 minutes on the Nakamura-Tome AS200L-MYS and, in the early days of gaining familiarity with the twin-spindle workhorse, JEB had slashed 30% off its programming time, a figure that is destined to improve as the company enhances its understanding of the machine.

For further information
www.engtechgroup.com

A collaboration between CAM software component provider ModuleWorks, cutting tool manufacturer Sandvik Coromant, and HCL Technologies, creator of CAMWorks, has produced one of the first commercial implementations of the PrimeTurning methodology in a CAM system.

Invented and patented by Sandvik Coromant, PrimeTurning increases machining efficiency by offering turning in all directions. Sandvik Coromant worked together with ModuleWorks to implement the PrimeTurning method as a software solution that can integrate into any CAM system. With support from ModuleWorks, HCL Technologies has now integrated this solution into CAMWorks, offering PrimeTurning as a native CAM strategy for improving efficiency and job throughput in machine shops.

The PrimeTurning method enables CAMWorks to achieve faster material removal rates and higher productivity than with conventional turning methods. ModuleWorks also developed optimised G-code generation for PrimeTurning with versatile parameterisation. Integrated into CAMWorks, this delivers fast and flexible job set up for the diverse range of CoroTurn Prime turning tools.

Julia Meyer-Hendricks, senior key account manager at ModuleWorks, says: “This three-way collaboration is an excellent example of how Industry 4.0 encourages heterogenous partnerships for developing innovative new manufacturing solutions. We look forward to continued co-operation and further advances in the technology.”

Marko Stugbäck, product manager at Sandvik Coromant, adds: “ModuleWorks has the experts and resources that enabled us to turn the PrimeTurning method into a software solution for the CAM market. It’s great to see HCL implementing this technology in CAMWorks. These types of collaborative efforts are exactly what the industry needs to ensure continued ingenuity that enhances the productivity and quality of automated manufacturing.”

For further information
www.moduleworks.com

The new QTE series of CNC turning centres from Yamazaki Mazak is the first to feature SmoothEz, the latest generation of Mazatrol CNC. Mazatrol SmoothEz CNC combines three ‘easy’ features: Ez Machining, Ez Operation and Ez Setup.

Ez Machining offers machine users high-speed, high-accuracy machining with thermal compensation control, delivered by Mazak’s Thermal Shield, to maximise accuracy by automatically compensating for temperature changes in the machining area. Ez Operation includes Quick Mazatrol for fast conversational programming via a 15” (380 mm) touch screen and intuitive operating system that can be customised according to operator preference.

By integrating Mazak’s Smooth CAM Ai and Mazatrol Twins, it is possible to replicate a virtual copy of the machine in the office for enhanced set up. Collective management of machine data is synchronised between the factory and office with Smooth Project Manager to manage the data required to execute machining programs – including tool data, work holding, system co-ordination, parameters and 3D workpiece models.

Additionally, Smooth CAM Ai can reduce programming time with Solid Mazatrol to generate a program from a 3D model using AI deep learning to determine the optimal process from past programs.

The QTE Series is equipped with a 5000 rpm built-in spindle motor that is capable of high acceleration and deceleration. Since there is no loss of power through mechanical transmission, the built-in-motor delivers more output during cutting, while vibration is minimised during high-speed operation to ensure enhanced surface finishes and extended tool life.

Two turret selections are available with a 12-position drum turret as standard and an eight-position turret as an option. Each utilise a 25 mm turning tool shank size.

For further information
www.mazakeu.co.uk