Faro releases all-new Vantage Max laser tracker

Faro has released its new VantageS6 Max and VantageE6 Max laser tracker series. The new laser trackers offer comprehensive, large-volume 3D measurement up to 80 m, streamlining processes and reducing inspection cycle times while ensuring confidence in the results.

The new Vantage Max enables organisations to increase their throughput while maintaining high inspection accuracy with an attractive 3D metrology option that expands upon the proven track record of the Faro Vantage series. These new trackers maximise 6DoF measurement capabilities via the optional 6Probe, enabling precise measurement of hidden areas and small features.

Faro’s 6Probe meets the dynamic measurement, speed and accuracy requirements of the most challenging industrial applications. With kinematic self-identifying styli, users can change probing tips quickly and measure without any recalibration, and measure hidden areas outside of the tracker’s line of sight with wide acceptance angles.

Moreover, the new Vantage Max provides more accurate 6DoF probing that helps speed up inspections and reduce the number of tooling changes and device moves. Previously, users relied on a spherically mounted retroreflector (SMR) to measure high accuracy points. In order to take these measurements, the user had to select an appropriate target nest and have line of sight. Typical users of the new trackers can now save up to 60 minutes each workday, says Faro.

“With the higher accuracy of the Vantage Max, users can probe more points beyond the line of sight, using an SMR only for alignment points and ultra-precision measurements,” says Leo Martinez, Faro product marketing manager. “This results in a significant productivity improvement of 20% compared to lower accuracy probes.”
For further information www.faro.com

Nagel honoured by Bosch

The Bosch Group has honoured Nagel with a ‘Preferred Supplier’ certificate. Bosch only awards the certificate to suppliers who demonstrate outstanding competence in all fields and have shown above-average performance in the market. Important criteria include quality, delivery performance and reliability, pricing and costing, as well as availability, internal and external sales force communication, and innovative capability. Nagel is a specialist in honing and superfinishing technology represented by over 1850 employees at 26 locations worldwide.
For further information www.nagel.com

Ultimaker and MakerBot complete merger

MakerBot and Ultimaker, two specialists in desktop 3D printing, have completed their merger. Under the new brand, Ultimaker, the company aims to provide easy-to-use and accessible 3D printing hardware, software and materials for any application, driving the industry to a future state of responsible and sustainable manufacturing. The newly formed entity will invest capital to accelerate growth, drive new product innovation, further research and development, and strengthen its presence across the Americas, EMEA, and Asia-Pacific through market expansions.
For further information, www.ultimaker.com

Metal-forming event returns after 18 years

More than 120 of the world’s leading sheet metal pressworkers will be heading to Birmingham next month as part of a major global manufacturing event. The 20th ICOSPA (International Council of Sheet Metal Presswork Associations) Congress will return to the UK for the first time in 18 years, with the emphasis on new technology, new skills and new challenges

Held over two days (19-20 October), delegates will meet to discuss innovative technologies transforming metal forming, how to deliver sustainable performance, and bridging the skills gap and remaining profitable in the face of economic struggles. They will hear keynote addresses from Francisco Riberas (executive chairman of Gestamp), Ian Harnett (chairman of Tevva Electrical Trucks), Antonio Costa (CEO of Kaizen Institute, pictured) and Gianfranco Ruggiero (senior product manager of AutoForm Group).
To book a space email ICOSPACongress@thecbm.co.uk

Ceratizit acquires AgriCarb

Cutting tool specialist Ceratizit has acquired all shares of AgriCarb. The privately owned company based near Lyon has been a specialist in the field of tungsten carbide agricultural wear parts for over 35 years. This purchase is seen as an important part of Ceratizit’s growth and sustainability strategy, as Dr Andreas Lackner, chairman of the company’s executive board, explains: “We want to become the leader in sustainability for the hard metal and cutting tool industry by 2025. The acquisition of AgriCarb helps us to reach this goal.”

AgriCarb’s previous managing director and co-owner, Lionel Curtat, who will accompany the integration into Ceratizit’s Hard Material Solutions Division, adds: “I’m very pleased to have found a buyer in Ceratizit, whose worldwide distribution network and unique know-how in the manufacturing of hard metals can help AgriCarb to achieve higher market penetration and further growth.”
For further information www.ceratizit.com