Cover shots

Single-table grinding machines

The LGG 180 and LGG 280 machines reduce grinding times for twist-free profile and generating grinding. The machines are designed to deliver consistent, large-scale production in automotive applications, including conical gearing. The one-table solution provides higher quality throughout production by using only one clamping fixture and one geometry.

The grinding head allows for rotation speeds up to 10,000rpm and has spindle power of 35kW. Also available is a second grinding head for featuring.

The machine will enable undulations to be applied specifically to gear wheel flanks for noise optimization purposes. The ability to produce sub-micrometer range waviness cost-effectively gives designers a whole new range of optimization options.

The touch screen user interface on the machine control permits easier, intuitive programming and machine operation, and it has an integrated webcam. The control also can incorporate additional documentation, such as fixture layouts and tool mounting instructions.
 

Liebherr Gear Technology Inc.
www.liebherr-us.com

Process-performance platform

Smooth Technology, debuting on Mazak’s 5-axis and multitasking machines, is a platform that spans from programming and setup to metal removal operations, automation, and monitoring/data collection. Key elements are the Mazatrol SmoothX CNC as well as machine hardware and servo systems.

Four times faster than its predecessors, the CNC’s processing capability, combined with seamless corner control and variable acceleration control functions, enables shops to shorten machining cycle times. SmoothX CNC works especially well in fine increment programs for simultaneous 5-axis machining and free-form die-mold machining.

Other features include a quick programming screen, intuitive human/machine interface (HMI), 5-axis virtual machining, and intelligent pocket milling. The Mazatrol SmoothX CNC’s Quick Mazatrol programming screen uses a 3D assist feature to streamline part programming via a 3D CAD input and features designation for the company’s Mazatrol programming language. Touch operation requires less action to create programs, and users benefit from a high-speed tool path check for EIA programming, as well as axis reversal point analysis.

The HMI includes a 19" panel with a process home screen that presents all critical data to operators within a single page view. The control’s 5-axis virtual machining and advanced voxel simulation technology allow for fast complex machining simulation.

Smooth Technology supports the MTConnect open-source, royalty-free manufacturing protocol.

Mazatrol SmoothX CNC features
Seamless corner control reduces vibrations and shortens part-machining cycle times via cutter path adjustments made when machining into corners. Rather than moving the cutter into a 90° corner, the function inserts a preset radial tolerance, eliminating dwell. Corner surfaces are smoother, the risk of cutter gouging is reduced, and cutters feed faster.

Variable acceleration control maintains maximum acceleration/deceleration for a set of combined axes in real-time, and this control reduces machining cycle times.
 

Mazak Corp.
www.mazakusa.com

Plastics composite router series

he Series 29 plastics composite router (PCR) product line is designed for machine-routing glass reinforced composite materials, such as fiberglass and G10, as well as most other common plastic and non-metallic materials. Performance also excels in aggressive routing applications involving carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP).

Manufactured using high-performance substrate for machining abrasive materials, the PCR design features a radial chisel edge for better control, smoother cutting, and longer tool life. This PCR is manufactured with a variety of length and diameter options as well as different end styles: no end cut, end mill, and drill point. All sizes and end configurations are available either uncoated or with diamond coating (Di-NAMITE) for maximum adhesion, wear, and tool life.

SGS Tool Co.
www.sgstool.com

For a brochure detailing the Series 29 PCR, visit http://bit.ly/10aH0CR.