Master launches ceramic discs for angle grinders

Master Abrasives has introduced a range of ceramic abrasive discs for angle grinders. Unlike conventional discs, the grain in Master Ultra Ceramic discs fractures to form new points that are sharp and precise.

This functionality maintains a cooler cutting action and long product life, making the discs suitable for aggressive grinding and blending applications. The discs also require less pressure, resulting in reduced operator fatigue.
Initially available from stock in 36 and 60 grit for 50 and 75 mm diameter discs, additional options for the Ultra Ceramic range are set to follow. The discs from stock have the MRD threaded screw-type mounting system, which makes them suitable for high-volume, high-production operations. Ultra Ceramic discs are packaged in the trademark Master branded blue boxes, and will also be available from distributors of the Master brand.
Andy Wright, national sales manager, says: “We’ve already experienced exceptional results in various customer applications when using ZIPP high-power angle grinders with Master Ultra Ceramic discs, and are now finding new opportunities to improve productivity in aerospace, fabrication and foundry markets.”
The ZDG-302 air angle die grinder by ZIPP, which is suitable for many high-speed grinding and finishing applications, is compatible with Master quick-change holders and discs. The grinder can be used on finishing dies, metal moulds and cast-iron workpieces.
For further information www.master-abrasives.co.uk

Software helps GT Grinding stay ahead

GT Grinding’s continual quest to meet a growing order book, and to improve service delivery levels in the manufacture of special-purpose tooling, as well as tool regrinds for customers across the UK, has led the tooling specialist to invest in a Walter Helitronic Power tool grinder.

Supplied by Walter Ewag UK, the machine is capable of processing rotary tools from 3 to 320 mm diameters, and up to 350 mm long. Complementing three other Helitronic machines at the company’s Oldham site, the new Power is equipped with an Eco Loader and wheelchanger, as well as the latest version of Walter’s Tool Studio programming software, to ensure that GT Grinding “stays ahead in the design, modification and grinding of rotary tooling”, according to works manager Andy Cooper.
He adds: “This latest machine will undoubtedly also help us to make further inroads into our manufacturing and regrinding operation, especially of routers for the woodworking and plastics industries. The Tool Studio software will play a key role, too.”
With integrated wizard technology for ease of use, Tool Studio 3 includes a host of new routines for ‘what you see you can grind’ tool production simulation, parameter changes and operation for Helitronic Power users. The software is combined with the benefits of automatic non-stop production via the Eco Loader – which is located on the machine work table and can accommodate 20 tools as standard – and up to 165 tools in the Eco Loader Plus configuration. In GT Grinding’s case, this includes the machining of solid-carbide and HSS tools such as special form cutters and slitters, as well as ‘conventional’ drills, milling cutters and reamers.
For further information www.walter-machines.com

Orbital reaches 30

Since its inception in 1988, Orbital Fabrications has been offering specialised orbital welding and advanced fabrication to a variety of clients within sectors such as aerospace.

Now employing 55 staff, Orbital Fabrications aims to maintain future sustainable growth and expansion, and has recently invested £120,000 in expanding its facility by adding 3500 sq ft. Another recent investment of £95,000 has been made in a computer controlled welding system that permits wire feed and lathe welding. Also, a new apprenticeship scheme is currently underway with two apprentices in situ and more planned for the future.
For further information www.orbitalfabrications.co.uk

IET launches exhibition in London

A thought-provoking exhibition is launching at IET London: Savoy Place, which will celebrate and showcase women in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).

The new exhibit in the Mountbatten Exhibition room will be showcasing current winners and finalists of the IET’s Young Woman Engineer of the Year (YWE) Awards. Guests and delegates can also see what initiatives the IET is working on, including its recent #SmashStereotypesToBits campaign, the Portrait
of an Engineer photography series and its work to highlight the career paths and achievements these women have accomplished.
For further information www.savoyplace.london

Software training proves popular

Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence says that its latest roadshow events are proving to be a runaway success.

The measurement solutions provider has seen a big increase in the number of delegates attending its annual PC-DMIS software training seminars following this year’s decision to expand the number of locations. Holders of Hexagon’s SMA contracts have flocked to venues in Bristol, Silverstone, Telford and Sunderland, not only to learn more about product enhancements, but to sign up for new services such as Hexagon’s online e-learning portal. The final events will be held at Queen’s University, Belfast, on 30 October, and Limerick Institute of Technology on 1 November.
For further information www.hexagonmi.com