August 2008 Edition

IMTS 2008 Hall D

Hall D is located in the East Building and houses Controls & CAD/CAM, EDM, Machine Components/Cleaning/Environmental; and Quality Assurance

CIM/CAD/CAM systems · CNC controls · automation management systems · communications systems and LAN · software development systems services · computers and software · instruments-controls and systems integrations services · CNC wire EDM · EDM filtration systems and supplies · ram type EDM · metal disintegrators · die sinking machines · equipment and services for air purification, safety guards, mats & equipment · filtration equipment · water and oil purification · air filtration · oil separation · sump cleaners · noise control equipment · dust removers · electrical equipment · way covers/tracks · storage systems · parts cleaners · parts washers · materials handling/storage systems · ball screws · bearings · spindles · conveyors · AGVs · coatings · servo motors · pumps · degreasers · robotics · plant maintenance equipment · assembly/test equipment · motion control equipment · environmental management software · precision measuring machines · laser measurement machines · coordinate measuring machines · precision gaging · automated gaging · in-process gaging · tool condition monitoring equipment · measurement software · quality control · testing, and measuring comparators · metrology · vision systems

Tool analysis

Scientific Forming Technologies Corp. announces the release of Deform-3D, version 6.1. Deform is used by cutting-tool manufacturers and other major manufacturers to analyze the influence of tool design and cutting parameters on machining performance.

Deform is a finite element-based system that can predict chip form, cutting forces, temperatures, tool wear, and other parameters based on cutting tool geometry, feed, speed, depth of cut, and coolant.

The Deform material library contains more than 50 materials, including common grades of steel, titanium, aluminum, and superalloys. Release 6.1 includes several new materials. On the numerical side, the system features a new mesh generator for improved run times, increased robustness, and accuracy.

Scientific Forming Technologies Corp., Booth D-3303

Smart automation

Bob Cam V22 offers a range of major enhancements and smarter automation in machining technology. The new system look and feel is more user-friendly than earlier versions. V22 provides an advanced CAD design capabilities for editing imported files or constructing parts from beginning to end, using free-form surfacing operations, and solid modeling technology.

From 2D geometry construction, print-making and part dimensioning to model editing and complex part design, V22 is capable of helping make edits on the fly and allowing designers to meet requirements.

Bob Cam, Booth D-3229

Sniffing out errors

Vericut software enables NC programmers to reduce errors, potential collisions, and areas of inefficiency for fast, clean production. Machine simulation detects problems before they occur for machine tool components such as axis slides, heads, turrets, rotary tables, spindles, tool changers, fixtures, work pieces, cutting tools, and other user-defined objects.

Vericut enables users to perform 3D simulation to create accurate collision-detection, making for clean production and an efficient environment.

CGTech, Booth D-3035

More control, greater flexibility

Both powerful and easy to use, the new Advanced 3D for GibbsCAM SolidSurfacer introduces a wide range of advanced three-axis milling functionality with support for high-end machining (HSM). Ad- vanced 3D offers improved toolpath quality, new types of finishing processes, greater dexterity on boundaries, and enhanced entry/exit control.

From support for 3D material, easier work on advanced tool shapes, to options to provide better support on high speed machining, the Advanced 3D can meet the need for speed.

Gibbs & Associates, Booth D-3001

Optical metrology

Mahr Federal has launched its new MarSurf WS. Utilizing white light interferometry in a compact design, the MarSurf WS 1 offers vertical resolution of 0.1nm (.004µin) and provides 3D measurement in seconds. Utilizing MarSurf XT 20 topographical evaluation software, the MarSurf WS 1 can be configured to work both in the lab and on the production floor.

The white light optical sensor enables the rapid, high-precision recording of surface topography on a range of materials. Using white light and a CCD camera, the system is able to collect height information through the field of view of the camera. The camera images simultaneously both the test surface area and a high-precision reference surface built into the objective lens.

During measurement, the Mirau objective is moved in small steps in the Z direction, using a piezo positioner. The resultant interferograms are recorded as image stacks and converted into height data.

Mahr Federal Inc. Booth D-4324

Program any machine tool

The ESPRIT system is a high-performance program for any CNC machine tool. ESPRIT’s range of functions includes programming for two-to-five axis milling, two-to-22 axis turning, two-to-five axis wire EDM, multitasking mill-turn machining, and B-axis machine tools. With its flexible system, ESPRIT is suited for CNC programmers with machining cycles, comprehensive tool control, and capacity to fully support an entire operation.

ESPRIT’s real-time simulation and comprehensive collision detection can ensure that even the most complex parts will be machined correct — the first time.

DP Technology, Booth D-3101

EMS enhancements

Wilcox Associates’ latest versions of Enterprise Metrology Solutions (EMS) software include enhancements and improvements, with features to extend CMM measurement and reporting capabilities of PC-DMIS V4.3.

Among the new d=features of PC-DMIS Vision 4.3 are improvements in measurement speed, added support for a range of probes and vision measurement hardware, expanded scanning support, and other enhancements.

Both the Server and Interactive versions of NC 4.3 will allow users to program and execute CNC machine spindle probe moves for part setup and measurement. The latest releases of these products include support for stacked rotary tables and Mazak Itegrex Systems.

Wilcox’ new Stand-Alone Inspection Planner offers features to allow design intent to be assigned within the PC-DMIS programming environment rather than within the CAD system.

Hexagon Metrology, Booth D-4303

Lifecycle software

Siemens PLM Software offers its NX and Tecnomatix integrated software for manufacturers to address a product’s development lifecycle.

NX is an integra- ted computer-aided design, manufac turing, and analysis (CAD/CAM/CAE) software that provides manufacturing programming and planning that connects the virtual CAM world to the physical shop floor world. NX CAM provides advanced capabilities to address CNC programming for the aerospace, mold and die, and machinery industries.

The latest release, NX 6, adds further automation by using Product Manufacturing Information (PMI) to drive CNC programming as well as Siemens PLM Software’s new synchronous technology that provides model editing for CNC programmers.

Siemens PLM Software, Booth D-4208

Metal compactor

Kurt Manufacturing’s new 45-metric ton Chipmunk metal compactor briquettor, along with a larger 125-metric ton model, are high output systems for compacting aluminum and steel/ductile iron chips.

Both Chipmunk models utilize a hydraulically driven infeed auger that separates most unwanted solids from chips prior to the compacting cycle.

Both Chipmunk models deliver up to 8-to-1 compaction ratio and reclaim expensive cutting fluids. These Chipmunk systems compact both ferrous and non-ferrous chips into dense 3½x1¼" inch briquettes. Both Chipmunk systems allow for simple changeover from one chip material to another, along programmable controls to allow automated or manual operation.

Kurt Manufacturing, Booth D-4738

Creating new paths

Mastercam’s developer X2MR2 automates the machining process, offering shops speed improvements and allowing for reductions in programming time. It will also include features such as a new Peel Milling toolpath, an Operations Manager pane, a Create Boundary function, and multiaxis enhancements in the advanced multiaxis toolpaths.

Common edge optimization in nesting is supported as well. Mastercam is a fully integrated CAM that runs in SolidWorks. Its users can program their parts directly within SolidWorks using Mastercam’s toolpaths and machining strategies.

CNC Software, Booth D-3027

ERP manufacturing solutions

Alere Manufacturing software enables manufacturers manager their facilities and bring greater efficiency to their day-to-day operations. With an array of options, including Bills of Material, ERP, MRP, materials planning, order processing and scheduling, Alere Manufacturing offers sophisticated to complex problems.

For example, the material list on a work order can be edited to add new components, change quantities, and delete unneeded items, all while keeping inventory allocations up to date. Alere Manufacturing links with Alere Accounting, ACCPAC Pro Series, ACCPAC VisionPoint, Accountmate LAN, and SQL products.

TIW Technology, Booth D-3243

Measuring arm

Faro Technologies has new updates to its FaroArm measuring device, offering high accuracy and quick setups. The Quantum FaroArm is an 8-foot mea­suring arm that can achieve an accuracy of 0.0007". It features a universal mounting system and wireless data transmission capability that could reduce installation and setup times.

The Quantum is available in six- and seven-axis versions. The six-axis version is certified to 0.0007" accuracy; the seven-axis model is accurate to 0.0008". Each arm uses Bluetooth technology to allow wireless data transmission for both scanning and single-point measuring routines. This allows the Quantum to operate as far as 30 feet from the data-collecting computer.

Faro Technologies, Booth D-4525

Measuring made easy

Carl Zeiss’ Calypso 4.6 is a new version of CAD-based measuring software, aiming to improve combined optical and contact measuring with multi-sensor applications. Calypso can handle contact or optical measuring, scanning or single-point measuring, while combining several measurement strategies per geometric element in a single measurement plan, which can be optionally executed.

Contact and optical measuring methods complement each other with many workpieces. Calypso 4.6 now supports automatic sensor change with measuring strategies optimized for the sensor during data capture on the workpiece.

Carl Zeiss, Booth D-4501

Coolant cleaners can decrease machine wear

Eriez’s magnetic coolant cleaners provide extraction of ferrous particles for grinding and metal-cutting operations. The ceramic magnetic coolant cleaners can extend the life of coolant, cutting tools, grinding wheels, pumps, and filtering devices.

Radial-design magnetic circuits extract ferrous particles to help meet tolerances and improve surface finish. They are designed for use with all types of grinders, honing and lapping machines, milling and drilling machines, and oil reclaiming machines.

Available in four sizes, the unit can handle up to 120gpm of water-soluble coolant. All coolant cleaner models can be installed on new or existing machines to provide years of maintenance-free operation.

Eriez Magnetics, Booth D-4295

Video measuring device

The Quadra-Chek 300 (QC300) from Metronics Inc. has 3D measuring capabilities and an enhanced color touch screen interface. Its Measure Magic technology automatically determines feature type based on probed points.

The QC300 features a large, high-resolution LCD monitor for full color display of 3D measurements and operator controls. The system includes programming functionality such as alphanumeric program naming, user messages, and “arrow to target” indications that guide part probing. The QC300 supports hard probes, touch probes, and indexable probes, as well as a variety of 2D and 3D feature types.

Metronics Inc., Booth D-4268,

Automated oil coupling cell

Okuma America Corp. and many Partners in THINC collaborators have launched a new automated, oil drill-line coupling cell for producing 4-7" API and premium couplings for the deep oil drilling industry.

The new Okuma oil country lathe, LOC500, two Millac 33T vertical machining centers, and a Fanuc R-R0000iB-165F robot work through the THINC-OSP control with partnering collaborators Gosiger Automation, ChipBlaster, Schunk, LNS America, Inc, Caron Engineering, Maxi Grip Inc, Marposs, Kennametal ToolBoss and tooling, and Renishaw.

The smaller coupling cell of 35x20' decreases the footprint, operators, machines, and manual labor and safety issues seen with conventional methods.

Okuma America Corp., Booth A-8200

Wireless data collection

The L.S. Starrett Company offers DataSure, a new wireless data collection system with proprietary design features. Utilizing radio transmission, DataSure can cover thousands of square feet while preserving the integrity of measurement data. Equally effective for shop use, metrology lab or large, plant-wide applications, DataSure interfaces with most major brands of electronic measuring tools and software and installs on PCs running Windows XP Professional.

The Starrett DataSure system consists of three elements: miniature radios (end nodes) that connect to the data output ports of electronic tools, a gateway that connects to a PC via the USB or serial port, and signal routers which greatly extend the system range in increments of 100 feet (30m) each and that can be configured to create the mesh architecture.

 L.S. Starrett Co., Booth D-4500

Enhanced touch

Delcam’s PowerMILL offers a power tool-axis editing function, enhancing the speed and dexterity five-axis machining. Users can select any region of a toolpath and redefine the axis vectors in that area.

PowerMILL’s improved memory management means significantly faster calculation times, especially for large, complex components, like press tools for automotive bodywork, and for smaller, highly-detailed models, such as molds for fine-tolerance and high-accuracy parts.

Delcam, Booth D-3005