INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Mazak unveils OptiPlex Ez fibre laser cutter

Yamazaki Mazak has introduced its latest innovation in 2D laser cutters: the OptiPlex Ez series. The new range includes two introductory models, the OptiPlex 3015 Ez and 4220 Ez, designed to offer customers a user-friendly experience, affordability and high performance levels.

Mazak says that its OptiPlex Ez series offers high mechanical rigidity for precision cutting and reliability. Intelligent functions empower users with supportive and preventive measures, minimising set-up times for higher productivity. The OptiPlex Ez is for customers seeking a straightforward entry into laser cutting technology, with simplified functions that combine with an integrated cutting database.

Among the stand-out features is the new auto-focus torch and new fibre resonator that enhance adaptability to various materials during the cutting process. According to Mazak, the torch’s design facilitates quick, straightforward and economical maintenance, as it is possible to replace the protection window and lens swiftly on-site, eliminating the need for specialist equipment. This capability arrives courtesy of a specific cover that prevents any risk of contamination during the replacement process.

The OptiPlex Ez series utilises a fibre laser source that results in low power consumption and streamlined maintenance, while eliminating the requirement for laser gas. With configurations available in 3, 4 and 6 kW power options, OptiPlex Ez machines are suitable for diverse cutting requirements and can integrate into automated systems for higher operational efficiency.

Large front and side sliding doors optimise floor space, ensuring hassle-free material loading and unloading. The tilting and rotating CNC control panel allows operators to work at the front or side of the machine. Equipped with the new Mazatrol SmoothLx CNC control with 21.5-inch display and user-friendly HMI, the OptiPlex Ez series provides intuitive operational functions.

More information www.mazakeu.com

AI cobots

Universal Robots, a Danish collaborative robot (cobot) company, has unveiled its AI Accelerator, a ready-to-use hardware and software toolkit created to enable the further development of AI-powered cobot applications. Designed for commercial and research applications, UR’s AI Accelerator provides developers with an extendable platform to build applications, accelerate research and reduce time-to-market for AI products. The toolkit brings AI acceleration to UR’s next-generation software platform PolyScope X and is powered by NVIDIA Isaac accelerated libraries and AI models.

More information www.universal-robots.com

Strong demand for EMO 2025

The early-booking phase for next year’s EMO exhibition in Hanover ended in October, by which time more than 1100 exhibitors from 27 countries had registered. That is just over 10% more than at the same time in the run-up to EMO 2023. Companies from Germany already signed-up include Grob, Spinner, Index, DMG Mori, Horn and Hermle.

“Our attractive early-bird offer has clearly motivated companies to sign up, despite the challenging economic conditions,” says Dr Markus Heering, executive director of EMO organiser VDW (German Machine Tool Builders’ Association). A provisional list of exhibitors for EMO 2025 is available for viewing at the link below.More information www.bit.ly/3NSMWLi

United Grinding to buy GFMS

The United Grinding Group has signed an agreement with Georg Fischer AG to acquire its GF Machining Solutions (GFMS) division. Together, United Grinding and GFMS aim to become a global leader in precision machining. The transaction is valued between CHF630 and 650m (£560-578m) and is expected to close in Q1/Q2 2025 subject to regulatory approvals.

With roughly 2000 employees at more than 20 locations, United Grinding Group is a major manufacturer of grinding and other machine types with brands that include Mägerle, Blohm, Jung, Studer, Schaudt, Mikrosa, Walter and Ewag. Acquiring GFMS will add brands such as AgieCharmilles (EDM), Mikron (milling) and System 3R (automation) to the product family.

More information www.grinding.com

Lathe chuck is lower, lighter and better

The ROTA-ML flex 2+2 four-jaw manual lathe chuck from Schunk has received a comprehensive facelift. The result is a lower, lighter and even more flexible product.

With the centrically compensating ROTA-ML flex 2+2, Schunk has had a low-maintenance manual lathe chuck in its portfolio since 2020. It allows almost all workpiece geometries – whether round, cubic or geometrically unshaped – to clamp precisely and efficiently on turn-mill centres. Its patented drive concept has a particularly large compensation stroke at 12 mm per jaw.

With a structural facelift starting from the 500 mm diameter model, the tool-holding and work-holding expert reduced the chuck’s height by up to 30%. This design change also reduces the chuck’s weight by up to 40%. The lower mass allows higher table rotation speeds, as well as the process-reliable machining of even larger and heavier workpieces. Users will discover that this revision increases the variety of applications available from a single chuck, while simultaneously enhancing machining efficiency.

The updated base plate of the chuck also supports more flexibility. Users can set-up ROTA-ML flex 2+2 lathe chucks quickly and easily on almost any machine table.

The lathe chuck continues to feature special seals on the guiding rails. The seals prevent grease wash-out and reduce the gradual loss of clamping force. Users therefore enjoy precise functioning of the lathe chuck, even when applying low clamping forces. A patented sealing concept protects the drive kinematics against dust and chips, thereby enhancing process reliability and extending maintenance intervals. Moreover, an indicator pin at each jaw signals the optimal clamping range for secure workpiece clamping.

Schunk offers the flexible manual lathe chuck in eight sizes, ranging from diameters of 260 to 1200 mm.

More information www.schunk.com