THIS WEEK’S HIGHLIGHTS

Smart picking and vision AI on show

Machine tool builder Schwäbische Werkzeugmaschinen (SW) GmbH will be present several new solutions from its extensive manufacturing and automation portfolio in hall 5, booth 320 at Automatica in Munich (27-30 June 2023). Thanks to interactive exhibits, visitors can experience automation live: they will be able to test a newly developed optical recognition system, compete against an automated robot arm in a game of ‘buzz wire’ and have a personalised giveaway handed to them via smart picking.

These and other solutions from SW show how manufacturers can use flexible manufacturing modules, agile process chain connectivity and digital manufacturing control and production to meet challenges such as fluctuating quantities and shorter runtimes with reduced volumes.
For further information www.sw-machines.com

ETG brings Axile brand to UK and Ireland

The Engineering Technology Group (ETG) is expanding its portfolio with the addition of the Axile brand of machine tools, for which the company is now the exclusive UK and Ireland technology partner. From a machine perspective, the company will be introducing the Axile G Series of gantry-type vertical machining centres and the DC series of double-column five-axis vertical machining centres that demonstrate high rigidity for the heavy-duty cutting of lengthy workpieces. There is also a complete range of options available for mill-turning with the MT versions of the machines.
For further information www.engtechgroup.com

Big Kaiser adds 360° LED indicator to Base Master

When it comes to tool pre-setting, the Big Kaiser Base Master Mini from Industrial Tooling Corporation (ITC) has proven its credentials, offering precision tool measurement with simplicity. Now, the Base Master Mini is seeing two upgrades.

The first upgrade replaces the single LED indicator on Base Master devices with a 360° light, which makes it easy for operators to see contact from any orientation. Secondly, the Base Master Mini is now available with a side handle, making it easier to use on turning centres with limited operator access.

Base Master Mini has a compact design that allows machine shop personnel to pre-set the offset position quickly and simply, while providing accurate results to a height tolerance of just 5µm. With a standard height of only 20 mm, the device is suitable for small Swiss-type lathes and compact machine tools with little room for manoeuvre.

The Base Master line-up allows use with all types of machine tools and materials, including non-conductive cutting tools. It enables operators to measure workpiece offsets, tool lengths and cutting edges with zero risk of damage or breakage, at sub-millimetre levels.

Three Base Master models are available. The range includes the BM-50H, BM-50GH, BM50-MH, and one Base Master Mini – the BMM-20H. For maximum flexibility in real-world conditions, the Base Master series offers precision with a repeatability of just ±1µm. From a flexibility standpoint, the system has a solid magnetic base that mounts vertically, horizontally, or at any angle. Optionally, the BM-50H is available without a magnet. This configuration is often required to machine additively manufactured workpiece materials.

For Swiss-type turning centres, ITC also offers Big Kaiserhigh-precision hydraulic chucks, which can reduce the time required to replace cutting tools while also improving the safety and repeatability of tool runout.

“We design our products based on the requirements of machine tool builders, so we can be confident there is a solution for any customer need,” says Giampaolo Roccatello, chief sales &marketing officer for Europe at Big Kaiser.
For further information www.itc-ltd.co.uk

Voortman acquires Muller Opladen

Voortman Steel Machinery has completed its acquisition of pipe processing machinery manufacturer, Müller Opladen. The move will allow Voortman to offer even more value to customers while tapping into emerging markets. Müller Opladen manufactures solutions for cutting steel pipes, pressure vessels and structural steel, boasting over a century of market presence. The company has an installed base of over 1000 machines in 70 countries.

Müller Opladen GmbH will continue its operation in Germany, now accessing Voortman’s trusted and recognised network for customer support and consumables. Mark Voortman CEO of Voortman Steel Machinery,says: “The integration of Müller Opladen is an important step forward in meeting the needs of our current and potential customers, and provides a complete product portfolio for profile, plate and pipe processing.”
For further information www.voortman.net

Trumpf open house

Trumpf UK will stage an open house at its Luton headquarters on 12-13 July. The event is a prime opportunity for OEMs and subcontractors to see the latest machine and software solutions in laser cutting, punching, welding, bending and laser marking technologies. Special focus will be on how to remove secondary laser cutting processes by automating part separation and skeleton handing. Visitors will also see demonstrations of new features, such as Edgeline Bevel, an innovation that allows flat-bed laser machines to produce chamfers and countersinks in sheet metal.
For further information www.bit.ly/43DoOSz