Studer introduces insertLoad universal loader

The new insertLoad automation solution from grinding machine manufacturer Studer supports the loading and unloading of Studer S33 and S31 universal cylindrical grinding machines, and can load workpieces between centres and into the chuck.

Where customised solutions were previously necessary, the new universal loading system from Studerenables standardised automation for loading and unloading its S33 and S31. Notably, insertLoad is suitable for centre distances of up to 1000 mm, thus closing a gap in standardised automation systems.

Workpieces can be up to 100 mm long and weigh 1.5 kgin alternating mode, or 5 kg in a single mode. The sophisticated design and ease-of-use (with the digital set-up wizard) allow users to configure individual jobs themselves (for centres and chucks).No programming knowledge is required. Furthermore, insertLoad can handle workpieces that are stored either vertically or horizontally.

The new Studer loader combines the advantages of a standardised system with high levels of flexibility. It handles a wide variety of parts in terms of geometry, weight and size; even the capacity of the drawers and degree of autonomy is adaptable based on requirements. A FANUC robot handles loading and unloading, moving independently on a linear axis between the loader and the machine’s work area. Typically, the time without human operator intervention is between 30 and 60 minutes.

Studer placed particular emphasis on safety during development. For example, a loading hatch separates the loading area of the insertLoad from the working area of the machine to prevent flame flashback during machining processes using grinding oil. In addition, the software and a safety switch ensure there is no danger to grinding techniciansin the event of a deflagration.
For further information www.studer.com/en

Parts washer drives efficiency at APT Leicester

MecWash Systems created a bespoke aqueous cleaning system to enhance the effectiveness of the washing and degreasing programme of precision mill-turned parts and CNC specialist, APT Leicester. The upgrade from a perchloroethylene cleaning system to the MWX300 streamlined the cleaning operation and enabled APT to prioritise its environmental goals and increase output, all while maintaining the highest standard of finish.

Initial research and analysis with APT Leicester allowed MecWash to gauge the application and outline the machine specifications required. These discussions are essential to gain a full understanding of the geometries used and the contaminants involved.

The MWX300 was the most appropriate system due to its compact size and powerful cleaning capabilities. Ultrasonics provide up to 30 watts per litre of high-power to unsettle any contaminants from the components. According to MecWash, the MWX300 provides an immaculate surface finish with both hot and vacuum drying functions.

Nick Baller, managing director at APT Leicester, says: “Manufacturing top-quality mill-turned parts requires detailed cleaning, and we were confident that MecWash had the experience to create an efficient solution. The cleaning performance of the MWX300 has been a major step forward in our sustainability credentials. The results have been excellent, with parts that are oil-free and ready for shipping.

“The productivity of the business has improved with the MWX300 system,” he continues.“We can effectively clean the turned parts that we manufacture, leaving them entirely free of oil, small swarf and debris. The system has helped to drive our mission of providing first-class, sustainable CNC manufacturing to our customers.”
For further information www.mecwash.com

Reducing consumables spend:is it worth it?

Although it is understandable that consumable cost is often a target for savings, does the result justify the effort?With modern grinding machines costing anything up to £1m, the productivity or OEEof machinery and manpower can deliver multiple times the total consumable cost. Assuming the cost for a machine, labour and overhead is £150 an hour, how does this compare with consumable cost per hour? In recent tests using the latest generation of Viper wheels, Tyrolit was able to decrease cycle time by as much as 30%.
Considering consumable unit costs at approximately £25 each (Viper wheel) and machine platform at £150 per hour, a 30% time saving reduction is equal to £45, outweighing the cost of the consumable in just one hour.

Tyrolit says that its Toolscope modular assistance system is a revolutionary retrofit for any machine tool digitalisation project. The system creates measurable added value for customers through increased process transparency featuring numerous process options, such as OEE, collision detection, condition monitoring and more. This capability provides a window into machining practice and process, subsequently allowing customers to achieve consistent process quality by reducing scrap, downtime and cost.

As Tyrolit celebrates 25 years of partnership in the development of Viper grinding wheels, the introduction of a third generation is a complete game changer, reports he company. Tyrolit UK’s latest offering, the Viper Ultra Ceramic Hybrid wheel, uses its own ceramic blend but retains Tyrolit’s bond technology from its predecessors. Having only been on the market for 18 months, the results, its performance and the feedback from customers have been outstanding, reports Tyrolit.
For further information www.tyrolit.co.uk

Consistent gloss finishes in high quality

The field of surface finishing is characterized by demands for higher quality with increasing need for process consistency, traceability and resource efficiency. Frequently, this requires new finishing methods. With the DryLyte system, Rösler offers a system for electro-polishing metal components that require a perfect finish.

Contrary to traditional electro-chemical polishing, DryLyte is a dry process that utilises solid particles containing electrolytes. As a result, there is no need for acid baths or other process liquids. According to Rösler, the benefits of this technology include excellent surface finish, high geometrical consistency of workpieces, lower CO2 footprint and reduced costs for waste disposal. Furthermore, there is no more costly and complex treatment of used process liquids, while the finished workpieces emerge from the system perfectly clean.

The fully automatic DryLyte system simplifies and helps to standardise different surface finishing tasks such as deburring, surface smoothing, surface grinding, high-gloss polishing and even the post processing of 3D-printed components. Depending on the initial surface conditions und the specified finishing quality, it is possible to use dry electro-polishing as a stand-alone process or in combination with known mass finishing, shot blasting or other pre-grinding methods.

DryLyte technology applies the principle of electro-chemical material removal from the surface of components. However, the technology does not use liquid electrolytes but a multitude of polymer pellets in different sizes containing electrolyte media adaptedprecisely to the respective finishing task. In contrast with traditional electro-polishing systems, no hazardous vapours form that require energy-intensive exhaust systems and special protective gear for the operator. In addition, since electrolyte medium absorbs the material removed from the workpiece surface, no dust or metal particles escape into the environment, as happens with manual grinding and polishing operations.
For further information www.rosler.com

5th trade fair for deburring technologies

Frequently small and inconspicuous burrs have considerable potential for causing damage. These remnants from the manufacturing process repeatedly lead to problems ranging from avoidable quality defects to product recalls. Beyond these outcomes, many sectors place strict demands on burr-free components, as well as cleanliness and surface finishing quality. Solutions adapted to the task at hand are indispensable in order to be on the safe side in this regard. As the internationally most significant information and procurement platform of its kind, DeburringEXPO showcases relevant solutions. The bilingual expert forum integrated into the leading trade fair for deburring technologies and precision surface finishing, as well as various theme parks, ensure an additional transfer of valuable knowledge.

DeburringEXPO, organised by private trade fair promoter fairXperts GmbH &Co KG, provides an internationally unique communication and procurement platform. It covers the entire spectrum of technologies, processes, tools and services for deburring, cleaning and surface finishing – across all industries and materials.

“Its comprehensive range of offerings makes DeburringEXPO the ideal marketplace where users can search in a targeted fashion for solution-oriented partners for changing and new tasks in deburring and the production of precision surface finishes,” explains Gitta Steinmann, project manager at fairXperts. “Some 44% of the visitors in 2021 came to the trade fair in order to prepare or finalise investment decisions.”

Due to the significance of DeburringEXPO for the operational procurement process, it is also no surprise that all of the sector’s market and technology leaders have already made firm bookings for booth floor space at the upcoming event, which will take place at the
Karlsruhe Exhibition Centre on 10-12 October 2023.
For further informationwww.deburring-expo.de