Technology in Motion

Reducing Machine Cycle Times
Release 3.5 of VoluMill toolpath software includes major improvements that slash part programming and machining cycle times even further – reducing overall path length and machine cycle times. Testing of VoluMill 3.5 has shown reductions in overall toolpath length by up to a third over version 3.0, and reductions in retracts to the rapid plane by up to 90%. Much of this improvement is due to Freeway Linking, a technique that lifts the tool slightly off the floor of the part and detours it at high speed around obstacles along a smooth path. In addition, VoluMill 3.5 introduces major improvements in toolpath sorting that minimize the length of linking moves between cutting passes.

Other enhancements include avoidance of fixtures or other obstacles, improved cutting around islands, and better use of multi-processor computers.

Celeritive Technologies Inc.
Cave Creek, AZ
volumill.com

Toolholder Increases Machining Capacity
The GenBore ID Triple Tool Holder adds three ID tool stations in place of a standard OD turning position on most Swiss-Type CNC machines. With the GenBore Tool Holder ID, work can be expanded to include spotting, boring, or drilling, all from one position for more cost-effective machining of complex parts. The toolholder features easy integration of high pressure coolant delivery systems, and can be configured for thru-coolant delivery through one, two, or all three tool positions. The GenBore includes (3) ER11 5/8" shank collet sleeves, removable location screw to re-position the holder on the gang plate, and set screws on both sides of the holder to suit right hand and left hand machine layouts. The 1/2" shank includes shim-plate for machines using 5/8" shank tooling.

GenSwiss
Westfield, MA
genswiss.com/genbore_swisstool.htm

Endmills Offer Reliability, Long Tool Life
TiNox-Cut, a series of endmills specifically developed to provide exceptional tool life when machining challenging materials feature a high heat-resistant, lubricious coating, and an optimized cutting edge design. For maximum effective cutting lengths, TiNox-Cut endmills feature reduced neck diameters while offering superior machining repeatability and safety. The endmills combine a tight, h5 shank tolerance with a specially roughened surface finish to maximize toolholder-clamping potential.

The TiNox-Cut endmills are well suited for both roughing and finishing operations. The tools consist of three designs: two four-flute variations for both roughing and finishing, and a five-flute extra long finishing tool. TiNox-Cut roughing/finishing endmills are available with flat ends or with a selection of corner radii.

Emuge Corp.
West Boylston, MA
emuge.com

Retrofitable Accessory Unit
ChipBlocker, a retrofitable accessory unit, attaches to most makes and models of chip conveyors that provide chip scrap removal on CNC metal cutting machine tools. It is a compact unit, which mounts to the discharge end of a hinged steel belt chip conveyor. ChipBlocker uses coolant to flush the underside of an operating conveyor belt to knock off any metal chips that are sticking to the belt so that they are not carried back into the conveyor housing, virtually eliminating chip carryback. The system uses clean coolant from the machine tool coolant supply tank to gently wash the chips off the belt after the discharge point but before the belt returns to the conveyor housing.

Jorgensen Conveyors Inc.
Mequon, WI
jorgensenconveyors.com