Greater process reliability with ceramics

CeramTec‘s new iCT tool system features a completely revised clamping system for optimised performance. At the same time, the number of variants has been reduced to enable easier handling and greater security for customers when assigning spare parts to the tools.

CeramTec’s new iCT (innovative clamping technology) tool system is an update that replaces the S3 series of turning tools and significantly increases process reliability when machining with ceramic cutting materials. The tool system is primarily for use in the automotive and supplier industry for turning mass-produced cast-iron components with high-performance ceramics.
In recent years, cutting speeds have increasingly climbed, placing higher demands on clamping systems.

“In this sector, CeramTec acts as a system supplier, where we supply the turning tool together with the machining technology as an all-in-one solution,” says Johannes Schneider, senior product manager cutting tools, at CeramTec. “Brake discs are one of the core components for which we offer cutting solutions, an area where we have a high level of expertise. With the new iCT system, we provide turning tools with significantly increased performance, as well as a reduced inventory of spare parts, which makes it easier to handle for our customers.”

There is only one clamping screw type (high-strength class 12.9) for all iCT clamping fingers, as well as only one screw size for all different shims. Clamps are also available in different material versions up to a fully hardened metal variant, and can thus be adapted depending on the use case.

The different sizes come in different colours, so that assigning them to the right tool is easy. CeramTec’s iCT clamping system is available for all common insert types and their different applications.

For further information
www.ceramtec-group.com

Protolabs gains JOSCAR recognition

A digital manufacturer is setting its sights on significant opportunities after it secured a prestigious supplier accreditation for the aerospace, security, space and defence industries.

Having supported the sector for several years, Protolabs now enjoys official recognition as a fully compliant and credible supplier to major businesses within the associated industries.

JOSCAR (Joint Supply Chain Accreditation Register) is valued by many of the largest purchasers in the aforementioned sectors, including BAE Systems, NATS, Rolls Royce, Airbus and the Ministry of Defence.

For further information www.protolabs.co.uk

Instantly optimise tooling and cutting data

Customers of Seco Tools can now reduce the time they need for process optimisation with quick, expert tooling recommendations through the recently redesigned Suggest, a free online resource available 24/7.

As machining jobs become more complex, tolerances tighter, delivery times shorter and skilled operators harder to find, shops need reliable access to advice that helps them find the most efficient tooling solutions. After a user enters key information about their machines and application requirements, Suggest sends authoritative recommendations and cutting data in less than a minute.

Suggest provides real-time access to Seco product information and recommended cutting data for most of the company’s products, enabling shops to minimise cycle times.

“Any reduction in machining time helps machining companies to maintain competitive advantages, but traditional cutting-tool selection can be difficult and time-consuming, especially for less-experienced operators,” says Gerrit Kremer, global product manager – digital product services, at Seco Tools.

As more than one tooling solution can address each machining application, Suggest also lists alternative products that may be a better fit for a user’s unique prerequisites. For machine shops that need to optimise thread programming, Suggest accompanies application details with fully optimised CNC code.

Newly optimised for even easier use, Suggest helps machine shops get cutting data and tooling recommendations quickly and accurately. With this comprehensive solution to questions about cutting strategies, customers can leverage the expertise of Seco Tools to achieve their best production results.

For further information
www.secotools.com

Indexable mill for heavy roughing

The recently released Widia M8065HD indexable milling platform performs heavy-duty milling operations in steel and cast iron materials. Designed with eight cutting edges and extra wide chip gashes, the M8065HD is capable of achieving large depths of cuts while producing high metal removal rates during face-milling applications.

“Face milling is one of the most common machining operations, so we designed a versatile and cost-effective solution that delivers substantial improvements in metal removal rates in steel and cast iron,” says Christine Schneider, Widia senior global portfolio manager.

Engineered to feature a 65° approach angle with a 6.35 mm thick insert, the M8065HD has one universal insert geometry in three versatile grades: WP35CM, WK15CM and WU20PM. All inserts have a 2.37 mm wiper facet to provide reliability and surface finish. These key design features coupled with eight cutting edge inserts enable customers to reduce overall machine set-up times and inventory costs by utilising one tool for multiple operations.

M8065HD indexable milling cutters are available in nine metric diameter ranges between 50 mm and 315 mm, and one insert geometry. Orders for the M8065HD bodies and inserts, as well as other Widia metal-cutting tooling, can be placed through Widia-authorised distribution partners.

For further information
www.widia.com

Record sales for PP Control & Automation

New opportunities in transport, medical and warehousing/logistics are helping one of the West Midlands’ fastest growing manufacturers record its best-ever year. PP Control & Automation, which employs 230 people at its factory in Cheslyn Hay, is on course to post £28m sales for the past 12 months, with a future order pipeline suggesting further growth is on the horizon. The strategic manufacturing outsourcing specialist has seen demand for its services rise by 25% on the previous year, with bosses at the firm believing this is due to a combination of reshoring back to the UK and a desire for greater security of supply.

For further information www.ppcanda.com