Metal Cutting

At Haas, vertical integration isn’t just a buzzword ⎯ it is a way of life. Spindles are only as good as the electronics that drive them. Haas Automation meticulously engineers their drive systems to provide the absolute best performance and…

With spindles from Hyprostatik Schönfeld, the oil flows into the hydrostatic pockets are adjusted by means of PM flow controllers. Currently, the field is dominated by rolling-element bearing systems. However, the growing demands for high precision, surface quality, cutting rates…

How Process Monitoring Can Lower Manufacturing Costs

According to Forbes, Global X, a $40 billion dollar investment firm with an appetite for automation, says that 2022 is a key turning point for robotics.

Quality components not only determine the longevity of the spindle, they determine how the spindle handles speed, torque and vibration.

Schweiger GmbH & Co. KG from Uffing at Staffelsee in Bavaria specialises in one of the most demanding industries, the automotive industry. For Managing Director Anton Schweiger and his approximately 75 employees, this means having to meet the highest standards…

Efficient manufacture is made significantly easier in two ways. If machine downtimes can be reduced, the productive time thereby increases automatically. By using flexible universal tools, the tool inventory can also be reduced, and costs saved as a result. The…

Via the built-in sensor system, the smart toolholder measures accelerations and vibrations directly at the workpiece and transfers the data to the machine control system.

The paradigm shifts in manufacturing have created an impending need for new application fields that require an appropriate tooling response.

New processing methods developed by MIT researchers could help ease looming shortages of the essential metals that power everything from phones to automotive batteries, by making it easier to separate these rare metals from mining ores and recycled materials.

The world’s largest bio-factory dedicated to high-performance polymers, being built in Singapore, is set to be a transformational catalyst in creating sustainable solutions across Asia and the world.

Aaron Howcroft, Global Product Manager at Sandvik Coromant explains how its own CoroDrill® 863-O cutting tool could help manufacturers rethink their approach to machining composites — thanks to chemical vapor deposition (CVD) technology.

Through the virtual engineering and manufacturing support provided by the partnership, customers will be able to reduce a two to three-year timescale of designing and testing a part to six to nine months. Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence Division has announced a…

Advanced composite materials such as superalloys account for 72.3%, the largest share in the aerospace materials market in 2020, according to the market analysis by researchandmarket.com.

As a leader in innovation and technology, TRUMPF combines the know-how on additive manufacturing with competence in developing cutting-edge industrial beam sources.

Industry revolutions have been happening since the 1700s and with every industrial revolution, a paradigm shift occurs which changes the way science and humanity interact, impacting the economy and industries in a major way worldwide. We are now on our…

According to Fritz Studer AG, it has been possible to increase grinding power in the grinding process by 30% and reduce grinding wheel wear by 70% in comparison with ceramic and resin bonds.

Modular systems have succeeded in finding their way into the lives of many people, from LEGO construction toys to IKEA’s modular furniture. Article by ISCAR. In metalworking, typical examples of these systems are unit-built machines and modular fixtures. As for…

As more manufacturers invest in automation, robotic solutions are becoming increasingly popular. Article by John Young, APAC Country Director, EU Automation. There are several different types of industrial robot available, each with their own features and suitable applications. Implementing robotics…

With the development of the new 4-axis machine series, GROB provides the solution for the market demand for a robust but also dynamic 4-axis horizontal machine. Article by GROB. The 4-axis machine series has been optimised for practically ideal static…

The wide range of milling discs, special techniques when milling by hand, as well as the use with hand angle millers and in (partially) automated processes. The milling discs are available in the three different kinds “milling disc”, “double sided…

Andrei Petrilin, Technical Manager of ISCAR discusses the importance of high-speed spindle and the requirements in high-speed machining (HSM).  High-speed machining (HSM) has not only led to a significant difference between machine tools but has also brought awareness to the…

Today, workpieces need to be machined using multiple tools and fast tool change systems are becoming the norm. Article by heimatec.  Today, workpieces generally need to be machined using multiple tools, which in turn means that tool changes are required…

Andrei Petrilin of ISCAR writes about the different directions for the development of cutting tools. In machining, a cutting tool is an element of a technological system that shapes a part by material removal. The system comprises a machine tool,…

While machining of titanium alloys no longer poses any major challenges for experienced machinists—when machining operations are straightforward—intricate sensor component designs made from titanium call for an appropriate tool design and an intelligent machining strategy. Article by Paul Horn GmbH.…

James Thorpe, Global Product Manager of Sandvik Coromant, explains how by combining advanced software with the correct machine tools, manufacturers can digitalise profitably, and on their own terms.

In choosing ESPRIT to write programs for its CNC grinders and wire EDM machine, MCC Tooling found a CAM system so user friendly that the owner’s young grandchildren sometimes use it. More importantly, ESPRIT’s efficient programming is saving MCC Tooling…

Here’s a look at machining strategies when dealing with exotic metals. Article by Andrei Petrilin, ISCAR. What are exotic metals, why are they so rare, and how are they machined? To understand this subject, let’s start by defining it. Mainstream…

Tom Nathan of ANCA explains how demand for carbon fibre reinforced plastics (CFRP) growing at 9.3 percent per year leads to huge potential for cutting tool manufacturers.  Using strengthening fibres embedded in a supporting material has been around since the…

Milling 101: What are the considerations when it comes to milling operations, and how can operators reduce vibration in milling? Read on. Article by Sandvik Coromant. Milling has been evolved into a method that machines a very broad range of…

As COVID-19 strikes, all companies in various sectors are facing a huge challenge of sustaining their businesses. People are being forced to make hard decision on whether to close their doors or digitally innovate even further. Article by Makino. COVID-19…

The larger the series of parts to be produced, the more important cycle times and tool costs are. And the properties of both the machine tool and the tool itself need to be optimally suited to each other—and to the…

Dressing technology enables completely new possibilities in grinding with metal bonded CBN and diamond wheels. Article by Fritz Studer AG. Alfred Mair, Head of Grinding Technology at Fischer AG, faces a challenge. The company, a manufacturer of high-precision spindles, has…

It’s said that life is a marathon, not a sprint. For automotive manufacturers, longer lasting tooling solutions are integral to more profitable production—but, often, manufacturers see little reason to change their existing tool set-up. In this article, James Thorpe, global…

Advanced workpiece manufacturing technologies—such as metal injection moulding, 3D printing, investment casting and close-tolerance forging—innovative machine tools, and a quantum leap in digitizing of manufacturing will increase the needs for finishing complex surfaces with minimum machining stock. Article by Andrei…

In this article, Dr. Humphrey Carter of CompoTech explains why CFRP tools are a feasible option for machinery manufacturers. The use of carbon fibre-reinforced plastics (CFRPs) is very widespread in motorsports and the aerospace industry. The exceptional stiffness and lightweight…

Hydrostatic machine tool components help improve machining quality, ensure higher availability, and provide longer working life. Article by Maren Röding, for Hyprostatik Schönfeld GmbH. In order to get the best surface finish, the machine tool components, such as spindles, gears, hydraulic…

Here’s a look at how a tool and die maker reduced time to machine die form plates from 11.3 to 4 hours. Burr OAK Tool Inc. produces dies used to manufacture two types of fins for window air conditioners: evaporator…

Dale Andrew Reyes, president of Guhring Philippines Inc., talked about mould manufacturing challenges, opportunities and trends in the country, as well as his outlook for the rest of the year amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Article by Stephen Las Marias. Guhring…

Here are a few things to look out for when choosing the right spindle repair service centre. Article by DKSH. Spindle is the heart of every CNC machine, and any damage or fault in the spindle can decrease productivity tremendously.…

Has the development of new tool materials already reached its peak and is experiencing stagnation? Find out more from Andrei Petrilin and Marcel Elkouby, ISCAR. Building a house begins with laying the foundation. The strength and the reliability of the…

All engineering disciplines need to work in close collaboration to ensure a design is completed on time and manufactured and commissioned cost-effectively. Article by Alex Teo, Siemens Digital Industries. In manufacturing, building a machine is a complicated process. Historically, the…

As Benson Industries’ business expanded, the need to collaborate across time zones with a wider range of teams began complicating design processes. Here’s how they overcame communication challenges with streamlined collaboration efforts and accelerated design processes, resulting in 40 percent…

The increasing focus on production efficiency is aiding the uptake of computer numerical controls (CNC) technologies as these machines streamline various operational processes by reducing production time and minimizing human error. The highly competitive environment has compelled players to focus…

Walter is providing new insert widths up to 19 mm to its standard product range. With the G2016-P groove turning holder and the UX grooving insert with GD2 geometry, Walter is launching a grooving system developed specifically for heavy-duty cutting.…

Using CAD/CAM software has helped this aerospace parts manufacturer achieve increased efficiencies and shorter lead times. Article by Mastercam. When Kencoa Aerospace began its operations 20 years ago, they were a small company focused on defense applications. But, according to…

Seco Tools has completed the acquisition of the cutting tool division of Quimmco Centro Tecnológico (QCT), a subsidiary of the Quimmco Group. The cutting tool division acquired from QCT has three locations in Mexico to support customers and is a…

For the very first time, manual deburring processes can be automated with the robot deburring tool CDB from Schunk, without having to forgo the proven deburring blades. The adjustable-flexibility deburring tool is suitable for robot-assisted deburring of workpieces made of…

EMUGE Corp. has launched its A-H family of taps, a new generation of Premium HSS-E and HSSE-PM Taps for hardened steel and cast iron materials. EMUGE has enhanced its H Series of Rekord-A style taps to provide more standard product solutions for…

Tungaloy has released FH3125, a new guide pad grade for its indexable deep hole drill series, including DeepTri-Drill, TRI-FINE, FINE BEAM, and UNIDEX. FH3125 is a new grade specifically developed to enhance the guide pad’s wear resistance in machining various…

CNC specialist NUM has launched a new HMI (human-machine interface) software package that features a fully integrated CAM/postprocessor module to further simplify and accelerate the creation of part programs for CNC cutting machines. The software also includes two new real-time…

When buying your CNC machine tool, what factors come into consideration? Cost? Quality? Design? Functionality? Find out the key considerations in choosing your CNC Machine in this article by Sue Neo, Hwacheon Asia Pacific. What is the cheapest CNC machine…

The trend towards miniaturisation of even complex component geometries is driving the need for highly reliable grooving tools. Article by Walter AG. Grooving processes play an important role, especially in mass production. The trend towards miniaturisation of even complex component…

How to say no to vibrations in machining? Find out more in this article by Andrei Petrilin, Technical Manager at ISCAR. Vibrations in machining are generally an unavoidable part of the metal cutting process. They have a forced or self-excited…

Here are some of the latest developments in magnetic clamping technology.

Mats W. Lundberg, Sustainable Business Manager at Sandvik Materials Technology (SMT), evaluates the circular approach in the metalworking industry. How old is your mobile phone? If you’re thinking about your current device, it’s likely that you change it every couple…

Karl Moessmer and Dirk Hund of Heimatec sound off on the company’s Thailand market and the opportunities they are seeing in the region. Article by Stephen Las Marias. At the recent METALEX 2019 event in Bangkok, Thailand, Asia Pacific Metalworking…

Amolak Preet Singh, Managing Director of Haimer talks about how the company is helping its customers move towards process improvement and automation. Article by Stephen Las Marias. Haimer is a family owned company based in Igenhausen, Bavaria in Germany. Established…

Super Alloy Machining Solution Takes Project from Loss to Profit: Here’s how one aircraft component manufacturer was able to solve a cycle time and productivity issue in their project. Article by Jeff Boyd, Sutton Tools. Our client was in a…

Franklin Vargas of Halcyon Technology (Philippines) Inc. talks about the opportunities, manufacturing challenges, and markets driving the growth of the metalworking industries in the Philippines. Article by Stephen Las Marias. Halcyon Technology (Philippines) Inc. is a partnership company between a…

Although seemingly simple, the design of effective chamfering tools needs to take into consideration various factors, including whether the chamfers are external or internal, breaking sharp edges and removing burrs, chamfers in holes, productivity, and versatility. Article by Andrei Petrilin,…

Dr. Wolfgang Baumann of Mapal explains the benefits of their latest radial insert milling range. Whether they’re producing turbochargers, steering knuckles, or cylinder blocks, customers can mill their cast and steel parts considerably more cost-effectively with Mapal’s radial insert milling range…

What prompted Yida Precision Engineering to switch to a new coolant fluid for its 17 machines?

In producing surgical instruments, Eberle Medizintechnik only trusts ARNO’s tools. Here’s why. Article by ARNO Werkzeuge. To put it bluntly, everyone is much happier when they do not need products from Eberle Medizintechnik. Well, not as such. On the other…

Asia Pacific Metalworking Equipment News sat down with Jeff Boyd of Sutton Tools to talk about trends and opportunities in the cutting tools market, and some of the product innovations at the company. Article by Stephen Las Marias. Established in…

As we move into 2020, we take a look back at the most popular metal cutting articles for 2019. For your enjoyment, here is the list of the top 10 most read metal cutting articles over the past year. Increasing…

Erich Timons, CTO of ISCAR Germany GmbH, speaks with Asia Pacific Metalworking Equipment News about tooling trends and challenges, and how the industry should move forward by improving productivity. Article by Stephen Las Marias. From its humble establishment in 1952,…

Reducing CO2 greenhouse gas emissions has a considerable impact on the development of machining tools, as new fields of application are emerging, and existing ones need to be adapted. This is because alternative drives, new, lighter materials, and concepts that…

OMAX Corp. will present its OMAX 5555 JetMachining Center with a 40hp EnduroMAX pump and Tilt-A-Jet, as well as the latest in personal waterjets, the ProtoMAX, at EMO Hannover 2019. Visitors to the OMAX booth (Hall 16/Stand D01) will experience versatility, high precision and a…

Bystronic is now producing its BySmart Fiber laser cutting system in the 4020 format, with a capability of up to 6kW laser power and the option to add compatible automation solutions. With the larger format, users can now process sheet…

Hwacheon Machine Tools Co. Ltd compares and contrasts horizontal machining centres (HMCs) and vertical machining centres (VMCs) and explains the uses of each.

Sawing and storage technology specialist KASTO will be presenting a wide range of innovations at the EMO 2019, which will be held September 16–21 in Hanover, Germany. KASTO’s booth (E54 in Hall 15) will feature an efficient energy recovery and…

Indexable or solid—which round tool concept is better? As in many subjects of technology, there is no absolute answer to this question. However, a definite answer does exist if the advantages and disadvantages of both concepts are considered according to…

The optimum machine tool combined with the optimum tool results in a perfect combination. And that makes cost-effective processes and impressive machining results possible. One good example of this is the cooperation between machine manufacturer F. Zimmermann GmbH and MAPAL.

In collaboration with NUM Taiwan, the Taiwanese laser machine manufacturer Legend Laser, Inc., has developed a unique multi-axis system for the precision cutting of thin sheet metal parts. Based on NUM’s latest-generation Flexium+ CNC platform, the system combines high dynamic…

Walter AG has launched new single-sided indexable inserts with HU5 geometry for ISO M and S materials, helping users produce more components using the same number of machines.

ARNO Werkzeuge presents the AWL direct mount for STAR Swiss type machines. The tool holder system for turning or grooving tools (patent pending) has an integrated adjustable high-pressure coolant supply of up to 130 bar. When combined with the AFC…

Following the successful introduction of its GC4330 and GC4340 steel milling grades, Sandvik Coromant is now extending the range of application for these advanced insert grades to additional milling concepts. The grades are now available for selection with the CoroMill…

In principle, machining large parts involves the same cutting action and chip formation process as for small or mid-size parts. However, large dimensions demand a specific approach to machining, and manufacturers need to plan technological processes and choose more effective…

What is the next stage in the evolution of ISO turning? Ever smaller, ever lighter – many developments across vastly different industries are driven by the trend towards miniaturisation or lightweight construction. For mechanical engineering and suppliers, this results in…

New Demands, New Solutions New tool holding products mirror modern metalworking demands. Article by Andrei Petrilin, Technical Manager, Rotating Tools, ISCAR.

Directing investments in the right way: Procurement of new machines is not the only way of increasing production capacity. The right tools and suitable software can also generate up to 85 percent gains in productivity. Expand the existing capacity or…

Walter AG supports its customers with high-quality product data, which is available from tool data management systems and online libraries such as MachiningCloud. Article by Walter AG. A focus on the needs of customers sets machining specialist Walter apart, including…

In order to boost the first stage roughing operation on newly cast aluminium parts for the automotive industry, Sandvik Coromant is introducing its M5Q90 angential milling cutter.

Since people realised the precision and efficiency of laser cutting in the early 1960s, industrialists are looking for ways to implement this cutting-edge technology to their respective industries.

Hypertherm has announced a minor version update of the Rotary Tube Pro software that makes it easier to design and cut tube and pipe parts with no 3D CAD experience required.

Rotating one-piece solid carbide tools traditionally dominate the market for diameter ranges of up to 20 mm and indexable tool manufacturers have not yet succeeded in penetrating this solid stronghold. Several important factors contribute to the historical perception of solid carbide as a better bet for tooling reliability.

EDM and ECM processes are advanced manufacturing technologies with unique capabilities due to their non-mechanical material removal principles can be found in different areas of application in industry offering a better alternative or sometimes the only alternative in generating accurate 3D complex shaped macro, micro and nano features and components of difficult-to-machine materials. 

Cutting tools have different design configurations. Some of them are assembled comprising a body with replaceable cutting elements (indexable inserts, for example), another is wholly produced from solid material. Functionally, a cutting tool may be divided into a cutting part that is involved in cutting, and a mounting part, which is necessary for mounting the tool in a holder or a machine spindle. Contributed by Iscar

Threads are machined features that exist universally, across all sectors of industry. And despite decades of performing thread-turning operations, advances in the process continue to be made, particularly when it comes to challenging materials such as stainless steel, heat resistant…

The challenges that the aerospace sector, in particular, presents motivates manufacturers to generate more inspired solutions to meet customer demands. Contributed by Sutton Tools Melbourne-based Sutton Tools has never been hesitant about the expansion of its global markets. To its…

Dirk Masur, aerospace component manager and specialist in titanium machining, Walter AG, tells APMEN how Walter is improving methods in which this difficult element is fabricated with the aid of special tools. Tübingen-based specialist Walter’s Xpress range is made to…

High-precision turning operations using high-positive indexable inserts are able to deliver the required accuracy for machine shops. Contributed by Arno Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (Heidelberg) manufactures high-precision and reliable digital and offset printing machines. The manufacturer has set itself the goal…

The recent arrival of all-directional turning and tools has re-written the conventional rules of this age-old machining process, offering tantalising improvements in productivity. By Håkan Ericksson, general turning product manager, Sandvik Coromant

Virtual Image The Digital Twin Industry 4.0, digitalised data in the cloud, networked processes in smart factories—what role does the metal-cutting tool play in this context? By Walter Frick

What are the benefits of using ultra-high speeds when machining non-ferrous metals with micro tooling? Contributed by Datron With a trend towards miniaturisation in manufacturing, work piece sizes are decreasing and part versions are increasing. So, the use of micro…

One of the manufacturing megatrends of recent decades is to simplify and minimise the number of machining set-ups required to produce a specific Y-Axis component. Contributed by Sandvik Coromant Markets call for shorter lead times and reduced inventories, and this…

Machining Intelligently In The Era of Industry 4.0 A logical progression in a series of strategic moves sees a cutting tool provider implement Industry 4.0 standards to its tools. Contributed by Iscar

Efficient Machining For New Materials Lightweight yet high-performance drive systems are the order of the day for the rapidly changing automotive industry.

Roughing and finishing turbine housings is particularly challenging in the case of passenger cars with spark-ignition engines. By Lim Gan Shu, marketing manager, Walter AG Singapore.

The application of the acoustic emission (AE) sensor for monitoring can supply valuable information regarding the discontinuity in material. By Tim Wood, international sales manager, SBS

Intelligent industrial robots provide possibilities for safer and more mobile manufacturing. By Etsushi Imaizumi, engineering manager, OSG

From special alloys to very tight tolerances, waterjet cutting has some special features that make it attractive for certain applications. By Jonathan Chou

Thin-walled circular workpieces can be a challenge to work with, but the usage of a shoe grinding fixture can give noteworthy results. Contributed by Studer

Machining Monitoring Adds Extra Value To Manufacturing The next stage in the metalworking production journey is to monitor and share with other interested parties precisely what is happening in the machining process. By Adir Zonta, product manager process monitoring and machining analytics, Sandvik Coromant

To gain traction in the aerospace industry, Australian manufacturer of rotary shank cutting tools, Sutton Tools, has been using linear motor technology. Contributed by Anca.

Coating Processes with Increased Material and Energy Efficiency The key to reducing the unit costs of coating and painting metal parts is the optimisation of all steps along the process sequence. By Doris Schulz

Maintenance-free and corrosion resistant cable carrier systems and are designed to extend the service life of your machine’s cable and hoses. Contributed by igus

The Challenges To Success On The XXL Machinery Market Precise measurement and multitasking features are top priority when machining extra-large workpieces. By Alan Reynvoet, chief sales officer, and Bernd Duchstein, marketing, Schiess

Moving Towards Intelligent Control Of Electrical Discharge Machining Electrical discharge machining (EDM) has long been the answer for high accuracy and demanding machining applications where conventional metal removal is difficult or impossible. The time has now arrived for it to also be equipped with intelligent features. Contributed by Makino

Versatility With Multi-Spindle Machine Tools Where high flexibility and autonomy in machining operations are required, an automotive manufacturer has found multi-spindle machine tools to be a versatile addition. By Brice Renggli, marketing manager, Tornos

An automotive company was able to reduce job setup time by 75 percent by making a shop-wide workholding change. Contributed by Kurt

The hype of the manufacturing world in recent years is centred on sustainability—of practices, of technology or of waste disposal—for a better future. But what exactly does ‘sustainable manufacturing’ mean, and how can a manufacturer achieve or engage in it? By Michelle Cheong

For over two decades industrial vending machines have provided a viable means of storing tools around the world. Raoul Rapke, Director CTMS Division, IMC Group, shares its benefits with APMEN.

Pat Mccluskey, co-founder of ANCA shares the advances in linear motor technology and how they will improve the tool grinding process.

Within the next decade or so, the machine floor will see connectivity reach new heights with immense amounts of data being driven through networks and on demand – at the touch of a finger. Article contributed by Schaeffler Technologies AG.

APMEN and IAA were granted the opportunity to interview Dr Thomas Liew, executive director, National Metrology Centre; Lee Shih Mean, senior metrologist, National Metrology Centre; Sim Sem Peng, chairman, Malayan Daching; and Elton Tong, service manager, Malayan Daching, on the relationship between Malayan Daching and A*STAR in setting up Singapore’s first 20 MN force measurement facility. By Mark Johnston.

Today, intelligent software solutions form the basis of the digital transformation of manufacturing process chains like DMG Mori’s Celos system.

Robotic technologies are gaining popularity across the world, especially Asia, with their improving features and functionalities. Small and medium-sized enterprises are also gaining increased accessibility to these robots as they become more affordable and simpler to implement. By Shermine Gotfredsen, general manager, APAC, Universal Robots.

Aluminium is used for a wide range of purposes in construction, including façades, blinds and window elements. But it has applications in many other areas of manufacturing as well: ships, aircraft, motor vehicles, machines and household goods. Having the correct machining tools for aluminium is imperative. By Stephanie Riegel-Stolzer, member of the board of management, Kasto Maschinenbau.

Where additive manufacturing is concerned the integral combination of building up material with the aid of a laser and machining is essential. DMG Mori has promised what they coin as “unlimited degrees of freedom” in construction and at the same time precision and surface qualities from this combination.

With many shop-floor measurement options available in today’s marketplace, understanding the technology differences and the impact they have on performance before selecting a system. Sea Chiahui, regional product manager – stationary at Hexagon Manufacturing Asia Pacific gives an insight into the operating principles behind its 4.5.4 SF and 7.10.7 SF coordinate measuring machines.

With more autonomy to the Southeast Asian operations, Schaeffler hopes to get a further foothold in the region with its offerings. Syed Shah speaks to Mark Gabel, VP industrial and aerospace, Schaeffler Southeast Asia, to get his inputs on the company’s plans and directions for the region in 2016 and beyond.

More manufacturers are turning to quality controls that enable greater efficiencies on the production front. By Didier Lacroix, senior VP, International Sales & Services, Cognex Corporation

Companies produce large volumes of data every day and this volume continues to increase. By Bert Rosenheinrich, director, engineering, SEA, Schaeffler.

Teamwork between human and machine is key in enabling manufacturers to ride on the growth of the automotive industry. By Shermine Gotfredsen, general manager, APAC, Universal Robots

Teamwork between human and machine is key in enabling manufacturers to ride on the growth of the automotive industry. By Shermine Gotfredsen, general manager, APAC, Universal Robots

Networked systems can increase process reliability and cost effectiveness. By Simon Scherrenbacher, corporate communications, Schuler.

Efficient and cost-effective processes are crucial to creating a sustainable manufacturing industry. By Dr Chen Wei Long, director, Sustainable Manufacturing Centre, SIMTech

Using a laser tracker, a metrology engineer can quickly capture high tolerance dimensional measurements – including conventional level and square measurements. By Hubert Meagher, director of metrology services, OASIS Alignment Services LLC.

In the automotive sector, reciprocating grinding is the way to go for manufacturing ball nuts in steering sytems. By Markus Isgro, marketing communications, Emag

As Taiwan’s machine tool industry matures, it aims to make its mark on the trends that are shaping the global market.

With new technologies and new skills, Marco Taisch explains how enterprises in Italy will adapt.

Variations in lighting conditions and ongoing post-deployment support are just some factors to consider before buying a vision system. By Didier Lacroix, senior vice president, international sales and services, Cognex.

Laser scanning opens new business opportunities at PMS Diecasting with increased accuracy using laser scanning. Contributed by Chris Wright, Technical Edtior, The Right Image

High pressure coolant machining can avoid heat problems, poor chip control and low lubricity. By Sharon Weiss, chief executive officer, Colibri Spindles

Customers always look forward to procuring parts and devices from manufacturers that are reliable in providing quality products that achieve output that does minimal to affect the delivery schedule. Staffan Lundström, product management, parting & grooving, and Bimal Mazumdar, product manager, Sandvik Coromant, explain what it takes to achieve such a status.

Aluminium is one of the most important materials in the aerospace industry. Furthermore, typical components are extremely machining-intensive and therefore require long production times. Tools designed to precisely suit these requirements, such as the M2131 ramping cutter from Walter AG, help to reduce machining times and costs. Lim Ganshu, Walter marketing, explains

Constantly changing factors such as unstable oil prices, ever more demanding environmental protection legislations and the evolution of more efficient technologies ensures a continually changing global automotive market place. These factors also increase the ongoing competition between carmakers and OEMs and dictate today’s automotive industry manufacturing trends. By Oleg Eliezer, Iscar’s automotive industry manager.

More and more travellers use modern train services because of their ease, cost effectiveness, comfort and safety. All these are only possible when the right tools are utilised at the manufacturing stage. Tomáš Hantek, the international application manager for railway at Dormer Pramet shares his thoughts on rail production.

Producing components for modern gas turbines is a challenge that machining experts are familiar with; they are often faced with the task of machining difficult-to-cut materials such as titanium alloys and superalloys and creating shapes such as onion-shaped profiles and flutes.

Multiple factors determine the results of metal cutting processes. Among the most important and the least understood factors is the “thickness of the chips” cut by the cutting tool. Patrick de Vos, corporate technical education manager, Seco Tools, explains.

The global medical manufacturing industry is one of the world’s fastest growing industrial sectors. It has accounted for more than 10 percent of the gross volume of metalworking activities recorded in 2015. Yair Selek, product manager of face grooving systems and miniature industry, Iscar, tells us more about machining medical parts.

Closely monitoring all tools used in the manufacturing process; checking tool life and carrying out tool changes at just the right time with the touch of a button. Gan Shu Lim, marketing manager Southeast Asia, Walter shows us how.

Mr Reinhard Banasch, the global CEO of the Hoffmann Group shares his thoughts with Syed Shah on the developments and milestones since his appointment to the role in 2014.

At the fore, high speed milling of aluminium parts for the aerospace industry. By Reuven Shapir, Iscar Industry Manager for the Aerospace Marketing Division.

It’s not about playing with the cost, but budgeting well in order to manufacture efficiently and maximise the margins. By Asier Ortiz, CTO of Lantek.

When perfect volume cuts are required in wet or dry cutting situations, the solution lies with a high-performance automatic circular saw.
Thanks to references from the steel market, circular saw manufacturer Behringer Eisele from Weilheim/Teck succeeded in submitting the winning bid to supply and install an HCS 160 Multifluid high-performance circular machine to an international market leader in quenched and tempered steel.

A smaller, but higher capacity press blanking machine at Volkswagen’s main production facility at Wolfsburg in Germany has changed the steel cutting workflow for the automaker. By Simon Scherrenbacher, specialist press officer for Schuler.

Cutting aluminium requires a range of machinery depending on the end-use application that vary from aircraft to window blinds with techniques that rely on higher speeds and lower cutting forces compared to metals like steel to ensure optimum cutting geometry. By Stephanie Riegel-Stolzer, member of the Kasto management board.

Both CVD and PVD coatings for metal cutting inserts are seeing continuous improvements for adhesion, toughness and wear properties. By Jonathan Chou

Recent research has shown that carbon dioxide for milling on exceptionally difficult materials with promising results. By Lim Gan Shu, Southeast Asia marketing manager, Walter AG

Development in anti-vibration tools is able to reduce or even eliminate problematic vibrations. By Rafi Ravoach, Iscar ISO turn product manager

From increased tool complexity to controlled micro geometry, modern applications of tool grinding have changed radically. What’s in store for the future? By Jeff Foregard, general manager, Anca Asia

In addition to releasing an industry first for turning, Sandvik Coromant is expanding its offerings for Industry 4.0. APMEN was in Sweden to cover the company’s latest developments. By Jonathan Chou

New anti-vibration additions to milling tools are adding versatile options to a variety of milling applications. By Ikuo Takikawa, applications engineer (end mill development division), OSG Corporation.

Machining & Finishing Innovative, advanced processes for deburring, surface finishing and shaping are making it possible to improve quality and productivity, as well as economic efficiency. By Doris Schulz

Comprehensive tool assemblies save time and cut down on the workforce required for start-up procedures, especially for large turnkey projects. By Joseph Polyanovsky, machine tool builder project manager, Iscar

Using a new forming tap, a manufacturer was able to avoid tap breakage due to the formation of bird nesting, in which cut chips ejected during operation would wrap around the workpiece, disrupting the tool path. By Valdir Lima, OSG Sulamericana

Machine controls can bring higher quality and shorter machining times in the production of stretch blow moulds. Contributed by DMG Mori

In applications where excessive vibrations cause undesirable chatter, introducing vibration dampening tools can improve machining results.

The sophistication of multitasking machining systems has made it expensive and the selection of a system for the right application an important decision becomes all the more complex. Best Selection Practices With Multi-Tasking.

Soaring demand for specialised bearings is driving fast-paced changes in mass production techniques aimed at quality and price. By Robi Nudelman, bearing industry manager, and Yair Feraro, application engineer at Iscar.

Boost productivity in face milling operations with pivotal technologies. Contributed by Sandvik Coromant.

Digitisation of Production In Industry 4.0 How are machine tool makers incorporating Industry 4.0 in their machining centres and beyond Machine tool manufacturer Heller Industry 4.0 has been providing a range of products for decades,? By Michael E Neumann

Process Knowledge Makes Machining More Efficient Complete machining solutions at the component level are improving cost-efficiency for the aerospace industry. By Lim Gan Shu, Southeast Asia marketing manager, Walter AG

Arno Tooling Services Werkzeuge SE Asia, speaks to APMEN on how his company Nimble Flexibility: Providing Niche Dietmar Kogler, managing director Dietmar Kogler, managing director, Arno Werkzeuge SE Asia, speaks to APMEN on how his company provides specific tooling services for manufacturers in the region.

An inquiry by the European Association of the Machine Tool Industries (CECIMO) shows that data-driven business models are high on the agenda of machine tool builders in Europe. Contributed by CECIMO

Innovation in transmission design means that today’s transmissions are generally getting smaller, while simultaneously offering more gear ratios. In what ways have machining automotive gears improved? By Markus Isgro, marketing communications, Emag

All Loaded Up! Machine tool automation palletising systems allow for flexible loading around the clock. This makes them an integral component in machine tool automation Contributed by Schunk

Quality Is Profitable: Faster Machining Time With Tool Holders to increase the productivity of the milling process in a die and mould company one cannot concentrate only on the high performance machining centres. Contributed by Haimer

Many CNC parts manufacturers as well as production and job shops could reduce their overall production costs 15 percent or more by leveraging existing CAM technology that is readily available. By Stas Mylek, applications advisor, CNC Software

An interesting approach towards the external turning of steel parts in high volume offers opportunities for manufacturers in the automotive industry. By Håkan Ericksson, global product specialist at Sandvik Coromant

A higher level of technology allows radius grinding machines to have more powerful software, grinding of larger workpieces, while having easier maintenance. Contributed by Studer

Industry 4.0: Is The Italian Machine Tool Industry Ready For The Challenge With new technologies and new skills, Marco Taisch explains how enterprises in Italy will adapt.