Ecoclean has launched the EcoCbase, a compact, flexible cleaning system designed to provide a cost-effective entry into high-performance component cleaning with non-halogenated hydrocarbons and modified alcohols. 

Developed for companies with lower cleaning volumes, the plug-and-play system combines process reliability with resource and energy efficiency. Available in S and M versions, it can be configured for pre-cleaning, intermediate cleaning and final cleaning applications, making it suitable for general industrial manufacturers facing increasingly demanding cleanliness requirements and more diversified product portfolios. 

The single-chamber, full-vacuum system has a compact footprint and low transport height, allowing installation where space is restricted. Its manually operated loading station can also be automated on request, while batch sizes of up to 50 kg for the S version and 75 kg for the M version provide flexibility for different component requirements. 

EcoCbase supports a range of cleaning processes, including steam degreasing, spray and immersion cleaning, injection flood washing, and ultrasonic cleaning. Part-specific cleaning programs can be stored in the system control, with 50 program slots available for current and future requirements. 

Process reliability is supported by filtration during filling and emptying, bypass filtration and continuous solvent treatment through an integrated distillation unit. Separated oil is discharged into an external tank, allowing valuable machining oils to be recovered while extending solvent service life and reducing operating costs. 

Energy efficiency is further enhanced by using waste heat from distillation to heat the solvent, alongside heat recovery functions designed to reduce energy consumption. A redundant safety system monitors relevant temperatures and pressures, while the closed cleaning process minimises emissions. 

EcoCbase is also suited to decentralised cleaning stations within larger manufacturing facilities and applications where water use or wastewater disposal is restricted.  

More information www.ecoclean-group.net

UltraTEC, part of the Vollmer Group, exhibited at Medical Technology Ireland at the end of last month, bringing ultrasonic deburring and precision tool grinding technology for medical device manufacturers to the Galway Racecourse. 

Billed as one of Europe’s largest and fastest-growing medical device design and manufacturing shows, Medical Technology Ireland offered UltraTEC and Vollmer the opportunity to showcase their respective technologies.  

UltraTEC presented its ultrasonic deburring technology, including the A25S system. This uses water rather than chemicals to deburr components, removing burrs by generating cavitation with an ultrasonic horn oscillating 20,000 times per second. As the process applies no heat or chemicals and can be fully validated, it is particularly suited to medical applications, where sharp, burr-free edges and a documented, repeatable process are essential. The system already handles features such as cross-holes as small as 0.1 mm in diameter that are difficult to reach using conventional deburring methods. 

Alongside ultraTEC’s deburring technology, the stand showcased Vollmer’s VGrind Infinity Linear rotary tool grinding technology, which is rapidly establishing itself with medical tool manufacturers worldwide. Vollmer’s steady rest, which supports both the cutting flutes and the tool tip, is designed specifically to eliminate deflection and the resulting run-out, a factor that, left unchecked, can generate excess heat and reduce the accuracy of a surgeon’s hand tool in use. 

The VGrind Infinity Linear adds automated, in-process run-out compensation through its NUMROTO control software, probing and laser tool inspection for automatically recalibrating to correct for any deviation. With the HP170 or HC4 automated loading systems, the machine can run unmanned and switch between batches of different tool types without operator intervention. 

More information www.vollmer-group.com/en-uk 

When Volkan Güller founded TDM Kesici Takım in 2016, he entered the Turkish cutting tool market with expertise in special tooling and a commitment to supporting manufacturers with both products and process know-how. What began as a specialised tooling consultancy has evolved into a competitive tool manufacturer, celebrating its 10^th anniversary with a growing reputation for producing high-performance special tools and drills.

As TDM’s expertise expanded, Güller saw an opportunity to move beyond advising customers and begin producing tools in-house: “We understood our customers’ challenges intimately. The logical next step was to develop and produce our own tools – giving us the ability to respond faster, customise more deeply and deliver exactly what each customer needs.”

Turning that vision into reality required the right manufacturing technology partner. TDM chose ANCA, whose Turkish and global teams developed a turnkey solution comprising ToolRoom design software, CIM3D simulation, an FX5 tool and cutter grinder and comprehensive installation and technology support.

Demand grew rapidly, with Güller ordering a second ANCA machine before the first was installed. Today, TDM operates four ANCA grinding machines, including the advanced FX7 Ultra platform.

Around 90% of TDM’s production comprises special tools, with particular expertise in drills and high-performance endmills. ANCA’s software ecosystem supports a structured development process from customer CAD data through tool design, simulation and cutting verification.

The FX7 Ultra has enabled TDM to produce highly demanding 0.1 mm cutting tools for automotive applications. Nanometre-resolution control, advanced servo technology and LaserUltra measurement help deliver the dimensional accuracy, surface finish and stability required for such miniature tools.

Serving automotive, aerospace, defence and die and mould manufacturers, TDM can typically deliver specialised tools within one to two weeks.

More information www.anca.com

Delta Srl, a specialist in surface grinding machines, has introduced its new Mini 20, extending the capacity of its Mini travelling-column range. Available in the UK through agent RK International Machine Tools, the fully automatic Mini 20 is designed for high-precision applications, offering a maximum grinding length of 2100 mm and width of 600 mm, or 650 mm with the 100 mm wheel option.

Established in 1955, Delta has specialised in surface grinding for more than 70 years. The company pioneered the travelling-column design for large surface grinders in the early 1980s before adapting the technology for smaller machines with the Mini family in 2005. Today, DELTA manufactures its machines at its modern headquarters near Pavia, Italy.

The Mini 20 combines a rigid Meehanite cast-iron structure with hydrostatic ways on all three axes. The closed-loop pressurised oil system eliminates sliding friction and stick-slip, delivering smooth, accurate movement while maintaining geometric accuracy throughout the machine’s service life. Its 2000 x 500 mm table remains fully supported during longitudinal travel.

A Mackensen hydrodynamic spindle bearing provides zero metal-to-metal contact, contributing to long service life, quiet operation and high-quality surface finishes. The Mini 20 is available with three levels of automation, including Delta’s proprietary Diastep control, which enables operators to manage grinding cycles, rough and finish passes and automatic wheel dressing.

The machine supports workpieces weighing up to 1500 kg and has an approximate net weight of 7000 kg.

“After 15 years of working with DELTA, we’re seeing growing awareness of its build quality and attention to detail,” says Simon Rood, director at RK International Machine Tools. “As customers demand ever greater accuracy, the DELTA range continues to perform at the highest levels.”

More information www.rk-int.com