Okuma and Hartwig Host Local SME Chapter

On May 13 the Houston chapter of the Society for Manufacturing Engineering (SME) held their monthly meeting and facility tour at the Okuma Tech Center.

On May 13 the Houston chapter of the Society for Manufacturing Engineering (SME) held their monthly meeting and facility tour at the Okuma Tech Center.  SME members and guests attended a presentation by Hartwig, Inc. Team Leader Gary Frick and Bryan Newman, THINC Product Specialist, gave a presentation on the THINC control, illustrating its open architecture and plug-and-work capabilities.  Attendees were treated to dinner and given the opportunity to see the Okuma machines in action. 

Machine demonstrations included the VTM-80Yb, 5-axis vertical lathe with “M” tool functions, the Multus B400-W multi-function mill/turn machine and an MU-400 VA 5-axis trunion-style machining center.  The highlight of the evening was the automated Okuma oil coupling cell which produces API couplings for oil patch and runs with minimal operator intervention.

On hand were representatives from members of Partners in THINC who answered questions from attendees and presented product demonstrations on workholding, industrial lubricants, tooling and gauging.  Bob Waters, Tech Center Coordinator observed that many of the guests were first time visitors to the center and that they were exceptionally engaged and took the time to speak with and ask questions of the engineers and operators.

SME Member Ed Gordon, stated, “It was a most enjoyable learning occasion.  Okuma has turned the ‘Partnership’ concept into what appears to be a very effective organization of resources capable of beneficially resolving any customer’s problem or need.”

The Okuma Tech Center officially opened in November, 2009 and Hartwig, Inc. has conducted a number of productivity seminars over the past few months, providing local companies with a “manufacturing playground” where they can explore solutions to CNC cutting challenges.  For information on future events, visit the website at www.okuma.com/tech-centers-and-training/houston