INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Double power for machining large light parts

Schwäbische Werkzeugmaschinen (SW) is strengthening its portfolio of multi-spindle CNC
machining centres with the introduction of the BA space3-22 two-spindle machining centre.
This further development of the ‘space’ series is for machining particularly large, light metal
workpieces in sectors such as automotive and aerospace.
SW launched the single-spindle version of its BA space3 in 2020. Since then, the machine
has found use primarily in e-mobility applications. To achieve even greater efficiency, SW’s
R&D team subsequently began developing the two-spindle version for demanding
manufacturing processes such as giga-casting or machining other complex components in
the automotive and aerospace industries.
The BA space3-22 is currently the largest machine in the SW portfolio. Its independent
horizontal spindle arrangement enables two machining scenarios: simultaneous machining
of two parts by two spindles, or the use of both spindles on one large workpiece. This
flexibility is particularly valuable in series production, where maximum machine utilisation is
crucial. The benefits are clear: parallel machining significantly reduces production times and
increases output.
Markus Löhe, aerospace key account at SW, explains: “In a nutshell, two-spindle machines
double output. The BA space3-22 can be used as a conventional two-person machine or, for
very large components, can easily be configured as a one-person machine with an even
larger machining area.”
At the heart of the BA space3-22 are powerful linear and torque motors. In this
combination, the advantages of both motor types are exploited to the full: linear motors
guarantee fast and precise linear movements, while torque motors provide dynamic rotary
movements. This capability allows the machine to achieve maximum acceleration, not only

minimising machining time but also downtime during tool change and positioning. The rapid
feed rate of the BA space3-22 is 120 m/min.
More information www.sw-machines.com

Make the right connections with GFMS

GF Machining Solutions (GFMS), a supplier of EDM, milling, laser texturing and additive manufacturing machines, has introduced its ‘My rConnect’ digital service and support platform. The My rConnect service provides remote, cloud-based connectivity between individual customers and GF Machining Solutions, anytime and anywhere. Any GFMS machine model can benefit from the secure My rConnect as long as a computer is linked to the same network as the machine in question. Even machines lacking direct network access, but connected to the internet, can still access and use the platform’s functions.

More information www.gfms.com

NASCAR names official 3D printing partner

Stratasys has become the official 3D printing partner of NASCAR. 3D printing technology from Stratasys will now see use for the design and production of parts and tools across NASCAR. The official partnership cements Stratasys’ role as a technology provider for NASCAR, with a new 3D printing lab set to open at the NASCAR R&D Centre in Concord, North Carolina. The facility features multiple Stratasys technologies, including F370, 450mc and F900 FDM printers and a NEO800 SL printer to support research and development, parts production, and tooling for NASCAR’s three national series.

More information www.stratasys.com

First digital-specific event for Kuka

Following the recent establishment of its digital division, Kuka presented its portfolio at the company’s first software and digital event under the motto ‘Kuka digital: powering your business’ at its headquarters in Augsburg. The company, known for its industrial robots, is focusing increasingly on the consistent and seamless digitalisation of industrial landscapes.

At the event, Kuka’s development and technology centre was transformed into a discussion platform for software, digitalisation and AI. In workshops, panel discussions and keynote speeches, customers and partners discussed current challenges in the economy and solutions for driving end-to-end digitalisation. An expo area provided insights into Kuka’s software and digital offer for the entire production lifecycle.

More information www.kuka.com/en-gb/kuka-digital

New connection for replaceable-head mills

Mapal has introduced a patent-pending bayonet-type connection for milling cutter systems with a replaceable head. Users benefit from easy handling with a rigid connection and optimal cooling. The tool manufacturer also saves carbide with the connection, conserving resources.

The functional principle of the new connection could not be easier: the replaceable head only has to be inserted and turned 90° to achieve locking. That is a lot easier than the previous system for replaceable-head milling cutters from Mapal or comparable systems where the replaceable head is threaded and has to be screwed-in several turns. 

Mapal’s new bayonet system achieves very high rigidity thanks to its large cylindrical face connection. While the force only acts on one side when tightening a thread due to its pitch, the Mapal system ensures a symmetrical insertion and good distribution of force.  

Together with the connection, Mapal is introducing a new tool-holder design. The tool holder has a ring of cooling channel bores, which enables a much higher volume of cooling than conventional internal cooling is able to provide. By channelling the coolant directly to the area of the cutting edges, the tool life is extended and machining quality improved. 

In addition, by eliminating the need for a central cooling channel bore, the milling head becomes much more stable. The tool holder is 10-15% more rigid than comparable systems, reports Mapal, resulting in higher achievable form and position tolerances, smoother processes and longer tool life.

 

The solid-carbide replaceable heads from Mapal offer high process reliability as inserts cannot become loose at high temperatures. If tool breakage does occur, the connection’s simple assembly ensures operators can resume the machining process quickly.

More information www.mapal.com