INTERNATIONAL NEWS

ModuleWorks and MAL extend ties

ModuleWorks, a supplier of software components for digital manufacturing, is extending its partnership with MAL Inc, a developer specialising in physics-based virtual machining and optimisation solutions. The extended tie-up makes ModuleWorks the exclusive reseller of MAL Inc’s AppsPro software library, the NPro plug-in for Siemens NX and the DELPro plug-in for Dassault Systèmes’ DELMIA.

ModuleWorks will also sell the jointly developed Machining Wizard that integrates machining physics and tool-path technology to assist engineers in selecting optimal cutting parameters for automated tool-path generation. The Machining Wizard subsequently uses these parameters in combination with a geometrical analysis of the workpiece to generate a tool path with optimised cutting parameters for each region of the part.

For further information www.moduleworks.com

New grease degradation diagnosis technology

NSK says it is developing a world-first: a high-accuracy way of rapidly and accurately diagnosing the remaining life of lubricant grease. The company will provide the solution as a mobile app, enabling users to perform the on-site analysis of lubricant condition in machine tool bearings, ball screws and linear guides. This innovative capability will reduce the need for grease inspection and replenishment costs, and help machine shops implement condition-based maintenance strategies. NSK’s is currently seeking customer input and feedback ahead of launching the new app.

For further information www.nskeurope.com

Stratasys to test 3D prints on the moon

Stratasys, a specialist in polymer 3D printing solutions, will provide 3D-printed materials for an upcoming lunar mission to test their performance on the surface of the moon. The experiments are part of Aegis Aerospace’s first Space Science & Technology Evaluation Facility mission (SSTEF-1), which focuses on technology development for space infrastructure and capabilities for the moon and near-earth space. The Stratasys experiments are sponsored by Northrop Grumman.

In this moon mission, Stratasys will provide 3D-printed samples that will be brought to the lunar surface by an unmanned lander in a carrier structure 3D-printed by Stratasys. Three materials will be the focus of two different experiments. The first assesses the performance of a sample coupon part made with Stratasys’ Antero 800NA FDM filament filled with tungsten. The second passive experiment will see how 3D-printed materials perform in space.

For further information www.stratasys.com

QualiSense provides QA for magnet production

Augmented AI pioneer, QualiSense, is entering into a new deal with Johnson Electric to supply quality inspection systems for dozens of new manufacturing lines. The lines will produce millions of magnets per day: key components in electric motors for use by leading automotive OEMs.

Each production line includes multiple cameras, which will inspect two magnets per second. Johnson Electric selected QualiSense software because of its augmented AI technology, which allows fast and swift deployment thanks to knowledge transfer between different lines. Also, it has an ability to deal with complex surfaces and non-recurring defects present on the magnets.

The agreement is an extension of QualiSense’s continued partnership with Johnson Electric. Earlier this year, the two companies entered into a five-year deal to become the preferred software vendor for inspection and quality control using augmented AI technology.

“This agreement is a reflection of our successful collaboration with QualiSense, whose technology gives the highest level of performance and precision, ensuring no defect goes undetected,” says Austin Wang, senior vice president at Johnson Electric. “QualiSense’s Augmented AI allows us to deploy new production lines quickly that reflect our quality requirements and commitment to customers. For the Johnson Electric team, the technology allows us to save time and make quick model changes whenever needed.”

Erez Tsur, CEO and co-founder of QualiSense, adds: “The speed at which QualiSense’s technology is able to inspect millions of parts is one of the key reasons why companies like Johnson Electric choose us as their preferred software partner. On top of this, we’re committed to ensuring that we offer the highest level of reliability, which is essential for any business supplying to tier one OEMs.”

For further information www.qualisense.ai

MecWash optimises component cleaning at HSP

Hydraulic System Products (HSP) contacted MecWash to upgrade its component cleaning to meet increasing demand and the strict cleanliness requirements of clients. With high standards required from customers in the OEM construction industry, the quality of the wash and dry process was essential to the success of the business.

Alan Atkinson, sales manager at MecWash, says: “We carried out extensive research at HSP to understand the application and the contaminants involved in their hydraulic products. Delivering precision engineered parts manufactured to the highest specifications requires rigorous cleaning of the components.”

The MecWash MWX300 was selected as the most effective machine for HSP’s application, with full ultrasonic cleaning functionality. Ultrasonic wash and rinse capabilities transmit high-frequency sound waves through the wash solution, which destabilises the contamination and facilitates fast and economical cleaning with high process quality.

“The processes that follow include a flood and spray rinse, hot air dry, vacuum dry and ambient air cooling, providing an extremely thorough cleaning and drying process, and a fantastic finish,” says Atkinson.

Stephen Westwood, general manager at HSP, adds: “We considered several manufacturers, but through trials and proving out of the MecWash MWX300’s capabilities, we were impressed with the machine’s excellent cleaning results. This improvement has enabled us to meet or exceed our OEM client’s stringent cleanliness standards. We are delighted with our new machine and value its ability to clean and achieve our customers stringent cleanliness standards.”

For further information www.mecwash.com