Complex internal structures

Wenzel will use Advanced Engineering to shine the spotlight on its exaCT U, which is designed for the measurement and testing of components where 3D data of complex internal and external structures are required.

Available to view on stand D20, the exaCT U can be used universally and is designed in such a way that each customer can tailor its individual system with the appropriate X-ray source and detector. The measuring volume of the machine is specified as 700 mm high by 300 mm diameter.
For further information www.wenzel-group.com

Ceramic-bridge CMM on display

LK Metrology is set to unveil the Altera C ceramic-bridge CMM range from stand H4 at Advanced Engineering.

Using the latest metrology software, multi-sensor technology and CMM design, the compact systems are intended for demanding quality control applications. Built at the company’s factory near Derby, Altera C machines are available in three sizes – 7.7.5, 10.7.5 and 10.7.7 – their respective X, Y and Z-axis movements being 700 x 650 x 500 mm, 1000 x 650 x 500 mm and 1000 x 650 x 650 mm.
For further information www.lkmetrology.com

EDM with less electrode wear

The Form P 350 die-sink EDMs from GF Machining Solutions feature precision-enhancing qualities and integrated technologies that are said to boost productivity and profitability.

Featuring a compact C-axis construction, fixed table and cast-iron frame, offers stability and force reduction to maintain a precise spark gap between the part and electrode. Regardless of part weight or dielectric volume, the machines deliver consistently high accuracies and surface finishes of Ra 0.1. Furthermore, integrated glass scales preserve repeatability and eliminate the need for recalibration and errors due to backlash and wear.
GFMS Form P 350 machines are equipped with the company’s intelligent power generator and Tecform module, which optimises each pulse to reduce electrode wear and generate high-quality surface finishes. Segment-dedicated technology eliminates the need to adjust the generator’s parameters.
The company’s iQ technologies control the erosion of graphite and copper electrodes, and help reduce costs. Real-time spark characteristic analysis and setting adjustment for pulse efficiency ensure wear-free spark erosion, precision, efficiency and greater control over the cost of the electrode, says the company.
Of note, the console’s AC Form HMI is based on Windows. Interactive graphics illustrate operations such as measurement and machining cycles for ease of use, while providing descriptions of machining targets, automatic selection of optimal technologies and dynamic parameter adaption.
GFMS Form P 350 machines are supplied with a four-position linear tool changer for System 3R macro tooling. An optional rotary tool changer can be specified that increases the number of electrodes to 160. The machines can also be paired with a System 3R WorkPartner 1+ robot for unattended night and weekend operations.
Offering X-, Y- and Z-axis travels of 350 x 250 x 300 mm, the machine accommodates workpieces up to 700 x 460 x 275 mm in size.
For further information www.gfms.com/uk

Keeping track of progress

Pryor Marking Technology is to showcase its range of solutions for identification and traceability.

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Located at stand H9, the company’s focus for this year’s exhibition will be laser marking. For the first time in the UK, Pryor will demonstrate its laser workstation, a large, modular floor-standing laser engraving machine. In addition, visitors to the stand will see demonstrations of a portable laser. A PortaDot P50-25 with 4000 Controller, and a PortaDot P130-30 for heavy industrial use will be among other machines on the stand.
The company has extensive experience in supplying global automotive brands and supply chains with marking and traceability technologies. Pryor offers standard and custom technologies for all sizes of manufacturer within the automotive supply chain. Every Pryor laser is supplied in Class 1 light safe enclosures, including the laser VIN cells that were recently installed in the production facilities of Jaguar Land Rover.
For further information www.pryormarking.com

GBM opts for Mitsubishi EDM

At Mattighofen, Austria-based GBM Kunststofftechnik und Formenbau GmbH, a newly installed Mitsubishi MV2400R Connect is making a genuine difference to this forward-thinking mould shop. Mitsubishi EDM machines are available in the UK from HK Technologies.

In total, some 35 injection moulding machines can be found in the halls of GBM. Be it parts for cars, medical devices or telecommunications equipment, there is very little that GBM cannot mould in plastic.
“Among the areas that is currently developing very strongly is vehicle charging equipment,” reveals managing director Roland Barth. “Extremely complex shapes are created for this, to produce wall boxes for example.”
As a result, the company recently purchased a Mitsubishi MV2400R Connect with travels of 600 x 400 x 310 mm in X, Y and Z, which is being used almost exclusively to produce injection moulds. In addition to machine’s fast cutting speed, the quality of the surfaces is an important factor for the Austrian firm.
“For us, the investment was important so that we could produce moulds faster than ever before, with surfaces that do not have to be reworked,” says Barth. “We want to continue growing and the machine will support us in our efforts.”
Barth deliberately opted for a larger machine, which is also equipped with the new D-CUBES interface. “Here I see a lot of potential for exploiting totally new possibilities in the future, particularly when producing moulds for our injection machines.”
For further information www.mitsubishi-edm.de/en