Sheffield-based Gripple has enjoyed a 50% increase in tool life and 44% reduction in downtime on its Star sliding-head CNC lathe by installing a MicroMag magnetic filter from Eclipse Magnetics.

In order to satisfy its environmental commitments, Gripple was keen to maximise efficiency and reduce waste on the lathe, which included exploring ways to prolong coolant life and enable the coolant flow system to work as efficiently as possible.
Since installing the MicroMag, the build-up of swarf material in the bottom tank of the Star machine has been significantly reduced, while the coolant flow system is working more efficiently due to the reduction in swarf circulating in the coolant. In contrast, before the addition of the MicroMag, the bottom tank of the CNC lathe needed to be cleaned approximately every month. There has been such a significant reduction in swarf collecting in the tank that it now only needs cleaning every 50 days. As a result, Gripple can reduce the frequency of cleaning from 12 times per year to just over seven. In addition, the bottom tank previously took approximately 45 minutes to clean, but has since reduced to just 25 minutes.
The tool change data is also impressive since the installation of the MicroMag. For example, on some tool locations, the number of EN1A (leaded) steel components produced has increased by 50% before the tool requires replacement; from 10,000 to 15,000 parts.
Gripple employee Jake Slaughter says: “The MicroMag is a great addition to the lathe and really improves the way it runs. In the long term, I estimate that the company will be able to produce a lot more components with MicroMag units installed on all of the machines.”
For further information www.eclipsemagnetics.com

Now available in the UK from NCMT, the Okuma Spaceturn LB3000 EX II turn-mill centre is equipped with the Japanese manufacturer’s Armroid robotic arm. As a result, the Spaceturn LB3000 EX II is said to be the first in the world with such a feature integrated inside a CNC machine tool.

A trio of different end-of-arm effector options are available for the robot, each one capable of performing different tasks. One is for blasting the cutting zone with air to improve chip management. Another provides additional support during the cutting process to prevent chatter. In combination with a workpiece stacker, the third effector automatically loads and unloads workpieces weighing up to 5 kg. All three are stored within the machine and are changed automatically by the robot.
Although most conventional robotic systems require complex integration and special training for staff, Armroid needs neither. As the robot is part of the machine tool, separate system integration is unnecessary. Using Okuma’s own OSP-P300A control, an operator enters the co-ordinates for the start and finish points. The robot then moves through its motions, with the cycle being generated automatically to avoid collisions. In addition to automated running under program control, manual operation is possible via a pulse handle that micro-positions the arm.
Importantly a longer and more powerful robotic arm, Armroid Type 2, will be integrated into an Okuma Multus B250II multi-tasking lathe for high-mix, small-batch billet work. This arm is capable of handling workpieces up to 10 kg and possesses a fourth end effector with a three-jaw workpiece hand.
For further information www.ncmt.co.uk

Essex-based subcontractor TNC Precision Engineering has expanded its sliding-head capacity to facilitate an application for a prismatic component previously manufactured overseas.

With a target cycle time of 3-4 minutes needed for TNC to make the part profitable using aircraft-grade aluminium 7075, the applications department at Star GB was confident that the component could be manufactured within the required parameters. Armed with this knowledge and, despite not being a route TNC would typically consider, the company commissioned a full turnkey package with Star GB. This package would allow the company to hit the ground running following delivery and installation.
The machine identified for the project was one of Star’s most advanced guide bush/non-guide bush models, the SV-38R. This high-specification machine combines the fast processing ability of a traditional platen-type sliding-head lathe with the flexibility of a turret machine to enable simultaneous machining operations. The turret includes an independent Z3 axis, allowing two different features to be machined at the same time using Star’s ‘super-position’ control mode.
Through a combination of utilising the machine’s balanced milling capability, specifically selected tooling and comprehensive process development, the final cycle time achieved was just 3 minutes and 13 seconds.
Director Stephen Westall says: “For this type of component, we would typically be looking at a five-axis machining centre, but from our estimations, they simply couldn’t get anywhere near this cycle time. The balanced milling capability of the SV-38R is a game-changer and it’s going
to open a world of opportunities for us.”
For further information https://stargb.com/

Newly available from XYZ Machine Tools are the latest additions to its Compact Turn turning centre range, the XYZ CT65HD and the XYZ CT52LR.

The XYZ CT65HD replaces the existing Compact Turn CT65 and comes with a maximum turned length of more than double its predecessor, at 535 mm, and a total Z-axis travel of 550 mm. Another enhancement is greater coolant delivery pressure of 30 l/min at 2.5 bar.
XYZ’s HD (heavy duty) designation relates to the construction, which remains as a solid Meehanite ribbed casting with the X and Y axes positioned along hardened and ground box slide-ways by means of ball-screws that have been increased in size to 28 and 40 mm respectively, with 20 m/min feed rates. The spindle prevails as an 18 kW unit with a maximum speed of 4500 rpm, while the 12-position 30VDI turret remains as standard, along with the MT4 tailstock offering 90 mm of travel.
Notably, the CT52LR mirrors the development of XYZ Machine Tools’ machining centre range, with the introduction of linear-rail technology to its turning centres for the first time.
Offering a 300 mm maximum turned length and 52 mm bar capacity, the XYZ CT52LR provides users with an entry into turning-centre ownership and, when combined with a machining centre from XYZ’s LR range, delivers a price-competitive package for any subcontractor that is unsure of what work will come in from week-to-week, says the company.
Additional specifications of the CT52LR include: an 11.2 kW spindle, which is capable of running at 4500 rpm; 300 mm maximum swing; 180 mm maximum turned diameter; axis travels in X and Z of 165 and 315 mm respectively;
and a 10-position block-type turret providing plenty of machining options.
For further information www.xyzmachinetools.com

First launched in 2018, the common platform for the manufacture of two universal turning machines, the B400 from Index and TNA400 from its subsidiary Traub, has been expanded with the addition of the B500 and TNA500 featuring larger, more powerful spindles. The machines are available in the UK through sole sales and service agent Kingsbury.

Each machine shares much commonality, as the mineral cast bed, slide-ways and covers are identical. One difference is the control, the Index B400 and B500 being fitted with a Siemens Sinumerik 840D sl and the TNA400 and TNA500 with Traub’s Mitsubishi-based TX8i-s V8. Another distinction is that the main and counter spindles on the latest 500 series lathes are A11/A8, one size up from the A8/A6 spindle on the 400 series, and delivering 40% more power and torque.
In support of long workpieces, TNA lathes offer the possibility of using a tailstock mounted on roller guideways. As an option, the machines are available instead with a counter spindle for the complete machining of parts on the reverse end after part-off and synchronous pick-up.
Regarding the counter spindle versions, all machines are equipped with an Index radial turret. Newly added is the option of selecting VDI40 holders instead of VDI30, enabling a slightly larger turning diameter and providing the live tools with higher torque. The 12 tool stations are equipped with the patented W-serration, featuring a profile that ensures the holders can be aligned quickly and accurately. Alternatively, a turret with axially driven VDI40 tools can be specified on the TNA 400/500, which is advantageous when using large, solid drills or boring bars, as the forces are transmitted directly into the turret.
For further information https://kingsburyuk.com/