No chance of corrosion with Kontec KSC3

Schunk says that its new Kontec KSC3 manual basic clamping vice offers users a significant gain in process reliability: the nickel-plated base body protects against corrosion and wear and extends its range of applications.

When it comes to process-reliable workpiece clamping in the machining of raw and finished parts, the Kontec KSC centric clamping vice has established itself as a highly efficient all-rounder. Now, clamping device expert Schunk presents a successor that is in no way inferior in terms of reliability and precision. The new product also offers optimum corrosion protection due to its nickel-plated base body, making it suitable for use even in demanding environments, such as those with high humidity for example.

The Kontec KSC3 has an extremely flat design while an improved interfering contour ensures optimum accessibility, especially for five-axis machining. Another plus for process reliability is its encapsulated spindle. The enclosed design with better chip discharge via lateral grooves protects from dirt and reduces maintenance costs. Since its bearing is free from play, the vice has a repeat accuracy of up to ±0.01 mm, enabling highly precise machining of the first and second sides with only one clamping device.

Schunk’s new centric-clamping vice is 100% compatible with the predecessor KSC model and is exchangeable without any alterations to the program. The extensive range of system and top jaws – and easy jaw exchange via just two screws – enables the vice to be flexibly adapted to new clamping tasks in just a few steps.

Kontec KSC3 is available in sizes 80, 125 and 160. Due to efficient force transmission, workpieces are held securely with clamping forces of up to 35 kN.
For further information www.schunk.com

Automated post-processing cell for AM

Stratasys, a specialist in polymer 3D printing solutions, will show additive manufacturing solutions for every stage of the product value chain at Formnext (15-18 November, Frankfurt, Germany). From Hall 12.1, stand D121, the company will display its P3 Automated Production Cell, a system that automates the movement of parts between multiple 3D printers and post-processing equipment for cleaning, drying and curing. The goal is to reduce the labour resources required as 3D printing scales up on the factory floor. Stratasys will also show its support for innovation in urban mobility with a new vehicle category.
For further information www.stratasys.com

GKN Aerospace buys AM specialist

GKN Aerospace has acquired a pioneering Swedish additive manufacturing (AM) system business as part of its Engines business’s journey to transform its supply chain and offer more sustainable and advanced material solutions to customers. Permanova Lasersystem AB, based in Gothenburg, is a specialist in advanced laser technology and cell integration, and a current supplier of laser welding and laser metal deposition systems to GKN Aerospace. The move is also a milestone in the company’s sustainability journey, with AM reducing material and energy usage by up to 80% compared with traditional manufacturing.
For further information www.gknaerospace.com

MTC signs up IP-based green-tech business

Fast-growth green-tech business Katrick Technologies has joined the Manufacturing Technology Centre as a Tier 1 member. Katrick’s patented suite of technologies uses the power of oscillation to provide profitable zero-carbon electricity and power saving.
The MTC will support Katrick Technologies’ next generation of infrastructure and help the company bring its patented technologies to market. Over the next year, Glasgow-based Katrick Technologies will work alongside the MTC to develop further its novel urban wind device and related business activities.
For further information www.the-mtc.org

Wayland sells additive system to RAF

Wayland Additive, developer of the Calibur3 metal additive manufacturing (AM) system, has installed its technology at the Hilda B Hewlett Centre for Innovation, part of No 71 Inspection and Repair Squadron based at RAF Wittering in Cambridgeshire. Equipped with world-leading 3D printing and scanning equipment, the opening of the new centre marks the Royal Air Force’s first steps into advanced component manufacturing.

AM is a brand-new capability for the RAF and will ultimately provide a breakthrough in its ability to design and produce its own aircraft spares on demand. Will Richardson, CEO at Wayland Additive says: “Calibur3 overcomes common problems with metal AM, and uses the NeuBeam process that delivers on all of the advantages of metal electron beam powder bed fusion technology while overcoming the troublesome issues that have traditionally limited wider adoption.”
For further information www.waylandadditive.com