NCMT shines spotlight on Makino machines

At the UK’s largest machine tool show earlier this year, NCMT showcased two Makino EDM machines: the U6 H.E.A.T. Extreme wire EDM; and the EDAF3 die-sink model. The MACH 2024 exhibition proved the perfect platform to demonstrate the advantages of these Japanese-designed machines.

In addition to using standard wire from 0.1 to 0.3 mm, NCMT says that investing in the Makino U6 H.E.A.T. Extreme wire EDM makes it optionally possible to run the largest diameter wire (0.4 mm) of any machine on the market. The wire is coated and distinct from the uncoated brass wire common across industry.

The extra wire thickness, together with the use of a second booster generator in the machine, allows two to three times higher productivity and heavier duty machining compared with using a standard 0.25 mm consumable. Thicker wire also allows a slower unspool speed, so there is no increase in wire consumption rate.

Visitors to the NCMT stand could also see Makino’s EDAF3 die-sink EDM with its rigid, precise structure and integral thermal cooling of the Y- and Z-axis cast components to ensure long-term accuracy. Table size is 700 x 500 mm, while the dielectric reservoir is built into the base casting of the machine to improve thermal stability and minimise the machine’s footprint. The working volume is 450 x 350 x 350 mm, while the maximum workpiece weight is 800 kg.

Free access to the working area is courtesy of a programmable drop-tank. Users can extend unattended machining with automatic electrode exchange and automated workpiece delivery and removal options. A high-precision C-axis head is an additional feature. Machine shops can use electrodes weighing up to 75 kg.

More information www.ncmt.co.uk

Mitsubishi EDM helps NTG hit top gear

Since its inception in 1945, Northern Tool and Gear Ltd (NTG) have been producing high-quality gears at its facility in Arbroath. Nowadays, the company utilises a diverse range of high-end machine tools to manufacture everything from one-offs to the high-volume production of gears and transmission components. To support this activity, NTG recently invested in a Mitsubishi MV4800S wire EDM machine from the Engineering Technology Group (ETG).

NTG’s managing director Gordon Strachan says: “To produce things like keyways, we would previously use a broach or old-fashioned slotting machine, which was slow and laborious and would occasionally display quality issues. Splines and external gears have dedicated machines that are fast and efficient but require a lot of tooling and long set-up times. In fact, sometimes the tooling would cost more than the job. Now, if the customer needs something in a hurry, we can cut it on our new Mitsubishi wire EDM.”

Discussing the selection of the Mitsubishi MV4800S, he adds: “We looked at four or five manufacturers. I cut this list down to two and eventually, through the graces of RAM Engineering & Tooling, the Scottish distribution partner for ETG, we selected the Mitsubishi. I had been impressed with Mitsubishi machines from the start and, from visiting machines at the sites of users, I could see the quality of the product and the technology involved. Everything is state-of-the-art and the control system is very user-friendly.”

The particularly large MV4800S machine incorporates technology like automatic wire threading, linear shaft motors and an optical drive system for precision and circular accuracy within 1 µm.

More information www.engtechgroup.com

Implant milestone

Amnovis, a specialist in the manufacture of 3D-printed titanium implants, has reached a significant milestone, delivering over 50,000 such implants since 2021 using its heat treatment-free 3D printing process. This innovative technology is transforming the production of spinal, orthopaedic and cranio-maxillofacial (CMF) implants, allowing customers to benefit from fast speed, cost efficiency and reduced time to market. Amnovis also offers a full range of traditional titanium 3D printing services, including Ti-6Al-4V grade 23 material with classic heat treatments such as HIP (hot isostatic pressing).

More information www.amnovis.com

Thame and Flaig join forces

UK-based Thame Workholding is now partnering with Flaig Magnetsysteme, a German specialist in advanced magnetic work holding and lifting solutions. Flaig’s magnetic work-holding chucks streamline machining processes, while their lifting magnets ensure efficient and secure handling of heavy materials. Available in the UK through Thame Workholding, Flaig’s magnetic chucks, for example, support fast, secure set-up without traditional mechanical clamps. With magnetic chucks, users can securely hold workpieces in place, even on uneven or rough surfaces, ensuring minimal vibration during grinding and milling.

More information www.thameworkholding.com

Andrew Elliott rejoins Ward CNC

Andrew Elliott has rejoined machine tool supplier TW Ward CNC Machinery (Ward CNC) as a permanent employee, operating in the company’s sales department and senior management team. He takes up the new position of manager – new and used machine tool sales. Managing director Simon Whitworth says: “This appointment is a valuable and strategically important one for the company’s future growth and succession planning. Furthermore, Andrew’s experience and key connections across the industry give us confidence of continued success.”

More information www.wardcnc.com