Hainbuch’s established Centrotex quick change-over interface is now available in a version for smaller spindles. Thus, the company says that Centrotex S is the smallest system available on the market for setting up clamping devices in a matter of seconds.

Offering a diameter of just 224 mm, Centrotex S is well suited to quick change-over system for machines with a small work space. Offering repeatability to ≤0.002 mm on the interface – without having to align – the latest version of the Centrotex quick change-over system can also withstand rigorous operating environments.
The machine adapter is mounted on the spindle, and the clamping device (equipped with the adapter counterpart) can be exchanged for another clamping device in less than a minute. As a result, long set-up times are a thing of the past.
Hainbuch’s smallest Centrotex version does indeed incorporate the proven technology of its big brother, however, it is superior in terms of convenience. The Centrotex S is actuated via just one radial locking screw, while ergonomic operation has been significantly improved thanks to the fewer tightening turns required. In addition, the Monteq changing fixture unburdens the machine operator and contributes to a faster clamping device set-up.
For further information www.hainbuch.com

The Northern Manufacturing show made a triumphant return to EventCity, Manchester last month, where it welcomed 2240 industry professionals over the two days, an increase of more than 10% on the previous event. Over 200 companies and organisations participated from a variety of sectors and specialities.

Visitor demographics for the 2019 show reveal significant increases in attendance from the aerospace, defence, medical and industrial machinery sectors. Materials and composites, rapid prototyping, and toolmaking all saw significant upticks in interest, reflecting a wider interest in advanced manufacturing materials and techniques. Northern Manufacturing will return to EventCity on 7-8 October 2020.
For further information www.industrynorth.co.uk

Yamazaki Mazak has made a series of major investments at its UK-based European manufacturing plant in Worcester. The multi-million-pound investments include two manufacturing cells making parts for new Mazak machine tools. Each cell is equipped with an Integrex i-Series machine from Mazak’s flagship multi-tasking solutions range, and RoboJob automation.

Specifically, the RoboJob Tower system is designed to deliver extended periods of unmanned running from a small footprint. The 4.6 m-high tower system is equipped with twin-elevator storage trays, with one feeding a robot for transferring workpieces to the machine tool, while the other allows the operator to replenish parts. In addition, a VTC-800 series machine has been installed in the jig-boring area.
For further information www.mazakeu.co.uk

New from metrology product specialist Creaform is a thoroughly re-engineered Go!Scan 3D: the Go!Scan Spark.

Present on the stand (G4) of Measurement Solutions, Go!Scan Spark features four inline cameras for fast 3D scanning and colour acquisition. The device also offers an ergonomic design that allows for different hand positions. In comparison with previous-generation units, Go!Scan Spark offers four times better resolution and three times faster measurement.
For further information https://measurement-solutions.co.uk

Last month’s EMO exhibition in Hanover saw Vollmer present its newly developed VHybrid 360 grinding and erosion machine, which can be used to produce solid-carbide and PCD cutting tools, such as drills, milling cutters and reamers, in a single set-up.

Vollmer’s VHybrid 360 offers a range of automatic settings that enable unmanned production around the clock. With the newly devised Vollmer tool manager, users can manage the automatic switching of up to eight grinding or eroding wheels intuitively.
The VHybrid 360 is based on multi-layer machining, which is implemented through two vertically arranged spindles. Here, Vollmer is using the tried-and-tested technology of its VGrind grinding machine series. The bottom spindle can be used for both grinding and eroding, while the top spindle is reserved exclusively for grinding.
Vollmer’s key erosion component is the VPulse EDM erosion generator, while from a grinding perspective, both spindles are vertically arranged in the pivot point of the C axis. This configuration guarantees high profile accuracy and enables exact grinding and eroding processes. In addition, tool machining times can be reduced thanks to the shorter linear-axis travel distances resulting from the spindle arrangement.
VHybrid 360 can be used to produce different cutter types that are used for machining metals or composites. The machine gives tool manufacturers the flexibility to perform grinding and eroding processes on standard and special tools, regardless of whether the blanks are made of carbide, sintered PCD or brazed diamond tips. Tools with diameters of up to 50 mm, and lengths of up to 360 mm, can be processed.
For further information www.vollmer-group.com