Changes in ambient temperatures within working environments, as well as machining parts over long periods of time, can impact on a milling machine’s geometry.

GF Machining Solutions’ new Automated Machine Calibration (AMC) helps manufacturers recalibrate their milling machines and recover overall precision at the push of a button.

Over time, any assembled mechanical system becomes prone to losing its original calibration and precision due to heat and external factors: milling machines are no exception. Although Mikron machines are all calibrated at the factory after assembly and during commissioning, changes in a customer’s working environment – including ambient temperature variations and heat generated during the machining process – cause deviations from the original calibration. This effect can often result in process consistency and precision being affected, which in turn impacts on part quality.

To simplify machine calibration, GF Machining Solutions has developed an all-in-one, ready-to-use AMC package which allows operators of both three-and five-axis milling machines to easily and quickly perform a recalibration and recover the overall long-term precision required for high-quality parts.

The AMC cycle consists of both the software for the Heidenhain TNC 640 control, as well as the hardware (a dedicated pallet including a calibration ball and aluminium reference block) for pallet calibration. An easy-to-use ergonomic interface requires little training, while the automatic data management reduces human error, minimises downtime between cycles and increases operator availability.

To recover the machine’s geometry, operators simply start the program and are guided by the interface. AMC assesses and adjusts all key components necessary. Within 10 minutes the machine is recalibrated to its original kinematic precision. GF Machining Solutions currently offers AMC as a standard package on its three- and five-axis Mikron MILL S and Mikron MILL X series.

For further information www.gfms.com

DP Technology, maker of the Esprit CAM system, has released Esprit 4.5, a multifunctional update that includes features such as an enhanced user interface, a new turning feature offset, and new support for circle segment tools.

The updated user interface features clearer, more consistent icons, while the ribbon commands have been reorganised for a more intuitive experience. In addition to improving ease of use, these updates give the Esprit interface a more streamlined, higher-end look and feel.

The new turning feature offset lets the user offset individual elements of a turning feature in the axial and radial directions to program median tolerances or leave stock for subsequent processes, all without modifying geometry. Also included is an offset calculator that allows the user to easily program a target diameter or apply standard ISO tolerances.

Esprit’s new support for circle segment tools lets users parametrically define and create milling tools with oval, barrel, tapered or lens profiles, without the need to create custom tool geometry. These tools offer several benefits over conventional milling tools in many five-axis applications, including larger axial depth of cut, superior surface finish, higher stability and reduced tool wear. As well as simplifying circle segment tool creation, parametric tool definition allows Esprit to better optimise tool-path strategies that use such tools.
“Before we release any product update, we take the time to ensure it’s packed with features that make a difference to our customers,” says Tania Campanelli, director of R&D at DP Technology. “Version 4.5 is dedicated to improving the user experience and, as always, ensuring our customers stay as efficient as possible.”

For further information www.espritcam.com