Gauge confirms accuracy of measuring machines

CMM manufacturer LK Metrology is introducing a range of UKAS-certified length and form artefacts complete with holding fixture, allowing users to verify the inspection accuracy of any 3D measuring platform. Customers can therefore have greater confidence in the results of an inspection, whether for metrology or reverse engineering, long after the annual calibration of the measuring machine.

Each CMM Checking Gauge (CCG) enables independent monitoring and verification of accuracy through regular intermediate checks on a CMM or portable measuring arm. An OEM can be certain that prototypes and production parts are within tolerance, while subcontractors are able to assure their customers that any machining and inspection carried out on their behalf is accurate. CCG demonstrates a commitment to a consistently high standard of dimensional quality control. Artefact measurement uncertainty is down to ±0.01 μm.

The gauge provides an efficient go/no-go check with measurement results for ongoing CMM monitoring. Three combinations of length bars, ring gauge, test sphere and fixture of different sizes are available to suit various measuring machine models. Regular use provides an early warning of changes in the inspection system and an opportunity to take pre-emptive action. Once identified, it is possible to address accuracy issues due perhaps to environmental changes or an unnoticed probe crash by scheduling an interim machine service or calibration, before downstream manufacturing processes are impacted.

CCGcomes in a carrying case with a program on a USB drive that runs in LK’s CAMIO measuring and reporting software. The program comprises DMIS measurement and alignment routines for bridge and horizontal arm CMMs, allowing the CCG cycle to run seamlessly on LK machines.
For further information www.lkmetrology.com

USA flag [head] Accurate and easy way to perform Brinell tests

AMETEK Newage Testing Instruments, an established manufacturer and worldwide supplier of hardness testers and accessories, is launching its improved Brinell Optical Scanning System (BOSS).

Brinell testing is a widely used method for measuring the hardness of metals. There are several reasons why this method is so popular, including its suitability for all metal types and that it offers a very accurate and simple testing method.Manual reading is quite easy and straightforward, but here operatives come across the one disadvantage of the Brinell method: manual reading via microscope has a high risk of human error and requires training and concentration to achieve accurate results.

Since the formula for the Brinell Hardness Number (BHN) calculation depends on the indent impression reading, these readings require high accuracy. That is why AMETEK Newage developed BOSS, which virtually eliminates operator influence on the test results.

BOSS uses a compact scanning head attached to a computer using the BOSS software to measure impression diameters in seconds and yield a measurement resolution of 0.01mm. BOSS software is used to set up the criteria for the reading, and perform the necessary BHN calculations to ASTM standards. The system even takes into account such anomalies as impression roundness and the surface finish of samples.

In this latest launch, the BOSS software now features an even better user interface that is intuitive in a familiar window-based environment and with faster and easier installation. The new configurable display shows the 10 most recent readings and features customisable measurement screens that users can configure to tailor the software to their specific application. An updated demonstration mode allows for multiple impressions, creating an improved sales and training experience.
For further information www.hardnesstesters.com

E-mobility gearboxes are no grind with ETG

Gearboxes used in electric vehicles are not only designed for high speeds and high torques, they are also very compact. This fact is not only true for the automotive sector, but also innovative applications such as e-bikes. These small but high power and electrically driven gearboxes inspire design engineers to come up with more creative solutions. With gear manufacturing technology manufactured by Kapp Niles, the Engineering Technology Group (ETG) says it offers UK manufacturers an innovative solution for producing electric vehicle and e-bike gearboxes.

Through ETG, Kapp Niles offers two machine types for meeting customer requirements. Both series are equipped with high-efficiency drives for the tools (25,000 rpm) and the workpieces (5000rpm). The KNG350 flex HS has a conventional design featuring a single workpiece drive. This machine is available in two versions, one for small lot sizes with manual loading. For higher volumes, an automated version is available with an integrated ring loader. It is possible to process workpieces up to 350 mm in diameter using this machine.The machine offers short set-up times thanks to the use of intelligent components and innovative ergonomics.

For large-scale production, it is worth taking a closer look at the productivity times of machines pre-set by design. The KX TWIN series with two workpiece drives and a loading and unloading process performed in parallel to actual grinding offers further potential for the reduction of non-productive times. The in-line centrifugation of components directly in the machine enables compliance with the ‘clean factory’ approach across all known automation concepts.
For further information www.engtechgroup.com

Industry set to meet for deburring and finishing

The 5th edition of DeburringEXPO will present innovations and trends for deburring and surface finishing at the Karlsruhe Exhibition Centre on 10-12 October 2023. With its bilingual expert forum, this leading trade fair also hosts one of Europe’s most coveted sources of knowledge.

Outlining the potential of the event, Iris Münz, commercial director of Ultratec Anlagentechnik Münz GmbH, an exhibitor at the last event in 2021, says: “We were pleasantly surprised, not only by the number of leads, but by their quality as well. Visitors came to us with very precise requirements for specific components.”

Hartmut Herdin, managing director of promoter fairXperts GmbH & Co KG, adds: “Companies are being confronted with ever-stricter or modified and new requirements, where previously used processes and technologies are reaching their limits. For example, these include more demanding specifications for surface quality, more complex component geometries and a changing component spectrum, as well as new and modified materials and manufacturing processes.”

Based on existing bookings and enquiries, fairXperts is expecting around 150-180 exhibitors, which is a significant increase compared with the last event in 2021 and almost matches pre-Covid levels.

DeburringEXPO will also feature theme parks covering topics such ascomponent cleaning, quality control and automation, while an integrated three-day expert forum will see presentations delivered in both German and English. The forum is one of the most sought-after sources of knowledge anywhere in Europe. It enables visitors to enhance their know-how in the fields of deburring, rounding and component cleaning, as well as in the production of precision surface finishes, by presenting new solutions, research results and benchmark applications.
Further for information www.deburring-expo.de

Training centre alumni making a difference

Two University of Sheffield AMRC Training Centre alumni feature in a new book that will soon be in the hands of every secondary school in the UK, where it aims to inspire and excite young people about careers in engineering.Beth Cousins, now a project engineer at the University of Sheffield AMRC, and Kate Todd-Davis, who works as a manufacturing engineer for Rolls-Royce, were hand-picked to appear in the book ‘Engineers Making a Difference’, alongside 44 other superhero engineers from sectors including construction, energy, transport, robotics and artificial intelligence, and more.
For further information www.bit.ly/3mFWmiQ

ROS installs Rösler shot-blasting machine

Less weight, compact design and improved sustainability – a producer of injection-moulded components has proven that these goals are achievable economically with high-performance plastic materials. The company is increasingly producing previously metal workpieces from duroplast and thermoplast materials. Therefore, the capacity for de-
flashing these components requires increasing. For this purpose, the customer ROS GmbH & Co KG chose shot-blasting solutions from Rösler. An RSAB 470wire mesh belt machine ensures fast and efficient processing in continuous flow, while an RWS 1200swing satellite table machine is utilised for high-quality, consistent de-flashing of single workpieces. The special dual chamber design of this machine practically eliminates any unproductive idle equipment times.

Jürgen Bär, responsible for planning in the industrial engineering department at ROS in Coburg explains: “Deciding factors for choosing Rösler were our good experience with the
shot-blast machines we’ve been using for a long time, the compact, space-saving and sturdy equipment design, and Rösler’s comprehensive knowledge in the field of plastic de-flashing. Moreover, we needed the continuous flow shot-blast machine quickly. Rösler generously supplied a machine from their customer experience centre within a few days.”

The flexible, high-capacity RSAB 470 shot-blast machinede-flashes components made from duroplast and thermoplast PPS-GF materials, while the RWS 1200swing satellite table machine de-flashes components made from PPS-GF with outer dimensions of up to 163 mm.
In line with the production cycle of the injection moulding machine, up to four workpieces are de-flashed simultaneously within a processing time of 40 seconds.
For further information www.rosler.com