Vgrind takes automation to next level

Vollmer has introduced a host of automation solutions for its Vgrind 360 tool grinder.

As the successor to the Vgrind 160, the Vgrind 360 tool-grinding machine is equipped with enhanced travel distances to manufacture carbide tools up to a diameter of 100 mm. Thanks to its two vertical spindles, the Vgrind 360 also allows tried-and-tested multi-level machining.
This capability enables tool manufacturers to produce large numbers of milling cutters and drills quickly and precisely. However, manufacturers are increasingly demanding automated tool production and this is where Vollmer says it really excels.
Automated solutions, such as pallet magazines, wheel changing packages and free-arm robots allow machining to continue unsupervised around the clock – but the opportunities go much further. The optional wheel changing facility on the Vgrind 360 provides the potential for manufacturers to load up to eight grinding wheel packages.
Accommodating grinding wheels up to 150 mm diameter, the wheel changer is located outside the work envelope in a clean environment to prevent contamination. This fully automated process can change a wheel and the respective coolant nozzles in just 9 seconds on either spindle.
Committed to providing its customers with a complete automation solution, Vollmer has also developed its HP160, HC4 and HPR250 automation packages to demonstrate the complete range of opportunities for end users.
The HP160 pallet magazine and HC4 chain magazine are compact and ergonomic solutions that provide external loading and unloading with a single or double gripper configuration
for clamping tool shanks up to 25.4 mm diameter. Loading can be by either the HC4 chain magazine system for tools up to HSK-A63 or the HPR 250 free-arm robot system.
For further information www.vollmer-group.com

Reseller agreements

Dreambird says that three new Hexagon Production Software resellers were acquired to represent the solutions in Russia and Central Asia. During the current quarter of 2019, reseller agreements were signed with Finval, Glanol and Alcor.

Dreambird is constantly working towards expanding its reseller network, looking to increase Hexagon Production Software’s presence in CIS markets and inform users about the benefits and possibilities of the products for manufacturing.
For further information www.dreambird.eu

Customised linear guides

Machine builders everywhere can now access a handy online tool from NSK to create customised linear guides in a fast and easy-to-use format.

The NSK linear guide design tool, named ‘Click!Speedy’ is capable of producing bespoke items based on specifications such as type, size, length, seals, lubricant and lubrication unit. In each case, the part number, data sheet, PDF drawing and CAD data of the customised linear guide are provided by download link or e-mail. Click!Speedy facilitates the custom design of all the company´s random-matching linear guide series (normal and precision grade NH/NS/LW/RA/PU/PE).
For further information https://is.gd/ucawaq

CAM integrates turbomachinery design solution

A co-operative agreement has been struck between Open Mind and CFturbo that intends to provide a complete design-to-manufacture workflow process for turbomachines such as pumps, compressors, turbines, fans and blowers.

CFturbo’s software platform for interactive design enables the end user to start from scratch or redesign existing geometries like impellers, stators or volutes. Now, the collaboration with Open Mind will enable turbomachinery designers to take their design concept beyond the 3D model and through to complete CAM model for production.
For further information www.openmind-tech.com

FEI returns

The Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA) says that Future Engineering Ireland (FEI) will once again be part of the National Supply Chain and Manufacturing Conference & Exhibition in Dublin in January 2020.

Following the success of the event in January of this year, the organiser has extended the exhibition to cover two days. The 2020 edition of FEI will take place on 29-30 January at CityWest, Dublin. FEI 2020 will provide a great opportunity for manufacturing technology providers to show off their latest innovations to potential customers closer to their businesses than ever before. This year’s show attracted over 6,100 delegates.
For further information www.feiexhibition.ie