Wele HMC500 launched in UK

The latest addition to the Wele range of machining centres is the HMC500 horizontal spindle model, which offers positioning accuracy of ±0.005 mm in the X, Y and Z axes, and a repeatability of ±0.003 mm over the full working strokes of 640 mm in X, 610 mm in Y and 680 mm in Z. With 60 m/min rapid traverse rates in each axis, positioning times are reduced, contributing to shorter cycle times and higher levels of productivity.

Launched in the UK by 2D CNC Machinery, the 500 mm twin-pallet machine (optional 400 mm pallet size) has a maximum workpiece capacity within a cylinder diameter of 750 x 900 mm high with a full B axis. The B axis has 1600 Nm of torque and a positioning accuracy of 10 arc-secs (with a repeatability of 6 arc-secs). Also featured is a zero-point clamping system via four radial pre-tensioned tapers to ensure alignment. Index times are 1.5 seconds with a pallet interchange time of 7 seconds.
The built-in 22 kW, Big-Plus dual-contact spindle has a speed range between 40 and 15,000 rpm with up to 167 Nm of torque available through a low and high-range transmission. Spindle acceleration and deceleration is 3.3 seconds. In order to minimise any deformation caused through variable cutting forces or thermal effects, the spindle head is mounted between twin box-type gantry columns, while the cast-iron bed is supported via three-point levelling.
There is a 60-tool magazine, providing 3 seconds chip-to-chip time, which is capable of carrying tools up to 80 mm diameter (or 160 mm with adjacent pockets left empty). Maximum tool length is 400 mm. Control is via Fanuc 0i-MF.
For further information www.2dcnc.co.uk

Casting co-op

Japan Engineering Network (JEN) and SMS group KK based in Tokyo, Japan, have signed a business partnership agreement on repair services for continuous casting moulds. JEN will perform aftersales activities in close co-operation with SMS group for the new condition monitoring system HD moldFO, which features an extremely high measuring point density over the full height of the mould.

ThyssenKrupp Steel Europe

The positions of the measurement points can be freely chosen to allow more precise monitoring of the processes in the mould. SMS group’s service offer will also include mould coating with UniGuard technology.
For further information www.sms-group.com

Export order

A recent export order won by Mollart Engineering for a four-spindle Omnisprint deep-hole drilling machine has enabled a bottle-moulding company in Mexico to increase its penetration rates in cast-iron moulds by 500% when drilling cooling holes in a series of bottle moulds.

Such has been the success of the operation, that the customer has ordered a second machine. The series of cooling holes measure between 4 and 9 mm, by 400 mm deep, and feature a straightness tolerance of 0.2 mm. These are now drilled at a feed rate of 600 mm/min.
For further information www.mollart.com

Optimas and Dura Automotive sign LTA

A new long-term agreement (LTA) between vehicle systems manufacturer, Dura Automotive Systems, and Optimas, a global industrial distributor and service provider, has reinforced the further expansion of a growing business partnership.

Both companies are already working together in Europe, but the latest LTA displays new intent between the businesses towards further streamlining Dura Automotive Systems’ component supply chain within this region. Optimas will work with Dura to consolidate the supply chain, specify suitable components and define a clear fastener policy for the business.
For further information www.optimas.com

Saudi Aramco signs deal with Schlumberger

Saudi Aramco has awarded Schlumberger two lump-sum contracts for drilling rigs and services for oil and gas wells. Under the contracts, Schlumberger Integrated Drilling Services (IDS) will provide drilling rigs and services for up to 146 gas wells and up to 128 oil wells over three years.

Saudi Aramco’s senior vice president – upstream, Mohammed Qahtani, says: “Saudi Aramco and Schlumberger are key partners who, under these contracts, will be able to bring innovative technologies to the field, and deploy them in our large-scale operations. We have a great history of success with Schlumberger throughout our 75 year partnership in Saudi Arabia, and have now set the scene for even greater achievements in the future.”
For further information www.saudiaramco.com