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30-TAPER VMC HAS NEW CONTROL FOR FASTER CONTOURING
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6/12/2006
30-TAPER VMC HAS NEW CONTROL FOR FASTER CONTOURING
6/12/2006
Provided By
Methods Machine Tools, Inc. - Machining Centers
The versatile new E Series RoboDrill provides lightning-fast drilling and tapping; excellent high-speed milling comparable to much larger machines; precision boring; and high-speed deburring. With precision-enhancing thermal compensation and HRV control, the 30-taper RoboDrill boasts positioning accuracy of 0.0002" and repeatability of ± 0.000080". The sophisticated Fanuc 31i-A5 CNC has an optional 1000 block “look-ahead” and a 0.4 ms block processing speed, ensuring exceptional surface finishes over contours.
To meet different machining and space requirements, RoboDrill E Series machines are available in three sizes with working cubes up to 27.5" x 15.7" x 12.9".
For more information, contact: John Crean, RoboDrill Product Manager, Methods Machine Tools, Inc., 64 Union Avenue, Sudbury, MA 01776, TEL: (978) 443-5388, FAX: (978) 440-9405, www.methodsmachine.com.
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PRODUCTION CELL OFFERS 5-AXIS ROBOTIC LOADING/UNLOADING
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6/12/2006
PRODUCTION CELL OFFERS 5-AXIS ROBOTIC LOADING/UNLOADING
6/12/2006
Provided By
Methods Machine Tools, Inc. - Machining Centers
With 5-axis robotic loading and unloading and the ability to stage enough small parts for an entire shift, the rugged Fanuc RoboCell™ makes unattended machining both practical and affordable. The seamless interfacing of a Fanuc 30-taper RoboDrill E Series vertical machining center and a Fanuc 5- or
6-axis robot, the RoboCell is ideal for high-speed, fast-cycle precision drilling, tapping, and milling at high production rates, even under heavy chip loads. Rapid traverses to 2125 ipm; 0.9-second tool changes (tool-to-tool); 6-second load/unload times (chip-to-chip); and software that permits robotic feeding from rows, columns, or layers combine to make the RoboCell one of the most effective production cells available. One operator can supervise 6 or more RoboCells.
The versatile RoboDrill E Series machining center can handle even the toughest metals. Equipped with the lightning-fast Fanuc 31i-A5 CNC, it is capable of feedrates to 1181 ipm, accelerations to 1.5 G or more, rigid tapping to 8000 rpm, peck tapping for blind holes, high-speed reverse tapping (at speeds up to twenty times faster than infeed), and advanced drill-wear monitoring. With CNC options such as 1000 block “look-ahead,” high-speed control software, and NURBS interpolation, the RoboDrill E also offers precision boring, high-speed deburring, and exceptional surface finishes on milled contours. HRV control, thermal compensation, and thread milling further improve speed, flexibility, and accuracy. The RoboDrill E boasts positioning accuracy of 0.0002” and repeatability of ± 0.000080”, comes standard with a 14 or 21 station tool changer, and is available with a choice of 5/7.5 HP 10,000 rpm or 2/5 HP 24,000 rpm Big Plus™ spindles.
The RoboCell’s high-speed 5- or 6-axis robot operates at up to 272° per second and has a payload capacity of 8.8 pounds (11 pounds with a restricted envelope). Easily installed, it can be mounted at any attitude without modification and can be configured with a bowl feeder, conveyor, or stacker system. It loads from the side, allowing safe access to the front.
Methods Machine Tools, Inc., has been a supplier of precision machine tools and accessories for over 45 years. Methods is the exclusive North American source for Fanuc RoboDrill vertical machining centers, providing installation, parts, service, and training through a nationwide network of dealers.
For more information, contact: John Crean, RoboDrill Product Manager, Methods Machine Tools, Inc., 64 Union Avenue, Sudbury, MA 01776, TEL: (978) 443-5388, FAX: (978) 440-9405, www.methodsmachine.com.
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METHODS MACHINE TOOLS OPENS DETROIT OFFICE
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6/12/2006
METHODS MACHINE TOOLS OPENS DETROIT OFFICE
6/12/2006
Provided By
Methods Machine Tools, Inc. - Machining Centers
Methods Machine Tools recently opened a new technical center in Detroit. Located at 50531 Varsity Court in Wixom, Michigan, the facility will allow Methods, a national supplier of precision machine tools, to better serve the automotive industry and its suppliers with new technologies and cutting solutions.
The new 36,000-square-foot facility will house a 6,000-square-foot showroom for the company’s lines of machining centers, turning centers, EDM machines, and robotics. The facility will also house applications engineering support and spare parts, as well as regional field service. Thomas Saur, with years of experience with the automotive industry, will head the facility and its team of experienced sales and application engineers.
“We have long recognized the importance of the Detroit area in the North American market for machine tools,” comments Bryon Deysher, President of Methods. “The opening of this facility will better position us to serve the needs of our automotive and other customers in the area with new machine tools, applications engineering, parts, service, and training.”
Methods Machine Tools, Inc., has been a supplier of precision machine tools and accessories for over 48 years and is the exclusive North American source for Matsuura CNC Machining Centers; Nakamura-Tome CNC Turning Centers; Fanuc RoboDrill CNC Milling/Drilling/Tapping Centers; and Doosan CNC Machining Centers, Lathes, and Turning Centers. The Methods EDM division is the exclusive North American source for Fanuc Wire EDM machines, ExeronÒ Die Sinker EDM machines, and Methods High-Speed Hole Driller EDM systems. The company provides installation, parts, service, and training through its nationwide network of direct offices and full service dealers.
For more information, contact: Bryon Deysher, President, Methods Machine Tools, Inc., 65 Union Avenue, Sudbury, MA 01776, TEL: (978) 443-5388, FAX: (978) 443-7466, www.methodsmachine.com.
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PALLET-CHANGER SYSTEM INCREASES PRODUCTIVITY
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6/12/2006
PALLET-CHANGER SYSTEM INCREASES PRODUCTIVITY
6/12/2006
Provided By
Methods Machine Tools, Inc. - Machining Centers
The RoboDrill PC-2 Pallet Changer System is the ideal productivity-enhancing option for low- to medium-volume production of short cycle parts. Designed for use with the RoboDrill machining center, it provides the quick changeover flexibility of a stand-alone machine plus the productivity of a pallet shuttle.
With a pallet-change time of 6.3 seconds, the PC-2’s dual pallet system dramatically reduces downtime by allowing part loading or fixture changes on one pallet while machining is under way on a second pallet. Large pallets — up to 27.5” x 15.3” — accommodate more fixtured parts, vises, and larger fixtures and have a load capacity of 220 lbs. Pallet changer repeatability is ±0.0002”. Unlike lazy-Susan-type machines, the PC-2 can be used as a fixture changer for low-volume production runs. Located at the side of the RoboDrill, it allows easy access to the work zone for faster setups and changeovers.
The versatile 30-taper RoboDrill E Series machining center can handle even the toughest metals. Equipped with the lightning-fast Fanuc 31i-A5 CNC, it is capable of feedrates to 1181 ipm, accelerations to 1.5 G or more, rigid tapping to 8000 rpm, peck tapping for blind holes, high-speed reverse tapping (at speeds up to five times faster than infeed), and advanced drill-wear monitoring. With CNC options such as 1000 block “look-ahead,” high-speed control software, and NURBS interpolation, the RoboDrill E also offers precision boring, high-speed deburring, and exceptional surface finishes on milled contours. HRV control, thermal compensation, and thread milling further improve speed, flexibility, and accuracy. The RoboDrill E boasts positioning accuracy of 0.0002” and repeatability of ± 0.000080”, comes standard with a 14- or 21-station tool changer, and is available with a choice of 5/7.5 HP 10,000 rpm or 2/5 HP 24,000 rpm Big Plus™ spindles.
Methods Machine Tools, Inc., has been a supplier of precision machine tools and accessories for over 45 years. Methods is the exclusive North American source for Fanuc RoboDrill vertical machining centers, providing installation, parts, service, and training through a nationwide network of dealers.
For more information, contact: John Crean, RoboDrill Product Manager, Methods Machine Tools, Inc., 64 Union Avenue, Sudbury, MA 01776, TEL: (978) 443-5388, FAX: (978) 440-9405, www.methodsmachine.com.
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METHODS MACHINE TOOLS CREATES NEW DIE/MOLD DIVISION
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6/12/2006
METHODS MACHINE TOOLS CREATES NEW DIE/MOLD DIVISION
6/12/2006
Provided By
Methods Machine Tools, Inc. - Machining Centers
SUDBURY, MA — Methods Machine Tools announces the creation of a new division to serve mold and die makers. Methods Die/Mold will concentrate initially on sales, training, and service for Matsuura LX-0 ultra-high-speed machining centers, TrodeMaster™ electrode machining centers, Exeron CNC Die Sinker EDM machines, and Fanuc Wire EDM machines.
With linear motors on all axes and an ultra-high-speed spindle, the compact Matsuura LX-0 Ultra High Speed Machining Center is lightning-fast. Ideal for hard die milling of complex shapes, it offers substantial productivity gains over conventional high-speed machines.
The heavy-duty TrodeMaster™ is a modified Fanuc RoboDrill high-speed vertical machining center specially equipped for cutting graphite EDM electrodes. With full enclosures and a complete Torrit dust collection system, it is ideal for small job shops as well as large in-house EDM facilities. With feedrates to 2125 ipm, accelerations to 1.5 G or more, a 24,000 rpm Big Plus™ spindle, and 0.9-second tool changes, it dramatically shortens the machining time of even the most complex electrodes. Spindle HRV control and thermal compensation ensure dynamic accuracy and circularity to 0.00011” TIR. The TrodeMaster’s rigidity also makes it ideal for hard-die milling and the production of copper electrodes.
Rugged, dependable, and precise, Exeron CNC Die Sinker EDM machines have maintenance-free, large-volume, rise-and-fall work tanks that provide the thermal stability necessary during high-amperage burns. Table- and ram-mounted suction or pressure flushing ports, impulse generators to 120 A (peak) featuring Digi-Spark™ technology, automatic tooling chucks, remote pendants, automatic lubrication, chiller units, and infrared fire suppression systems are all standard equipment. Options include P/U electrode changers with up to 30 stations.
Fanuc iC Series machines are workhorse wire EDMs for producing mold inserts and components. In addition to the fastest cutting rates using standard brass wire, they feature the world’s fastest, most reliable AWF system, which threads while submerged (spark-to-spark) in 14 seconds!
“This new division is dedicated to helping our customers stanch the flow of mold and die business overseas,” said Methods Chairman of the Board Scott McIver. “Methods has always had highly productive and versatile machine tools for mold and die making. Now we have an experienced, knowledgeable staff to provide the applications engineering support customers need to outperform foreign competition.”
Methods Machine Tools, Inc., has been the exclusive North American source for many well-known precision machine tools and accessories for over 48 years. The company provides installation, parts, service, and training through its nationwide network of direct offices and full service dealers.
For more information, contact: Scott McIver, Chairman of the Board, Methods Machine Tools, Inc., 65 Union Avenue, Sudbury, MA 01776, TEL: (978) 443-5388, FAX: (978) 443-7466, www.methodsmachine.com.
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30-TAPER MACHINING CENTER HAS HIGH-SPEED 4TH AXIS
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6/12/2006
30-TAPER MACHINING CENTER HAS HIGH-SPEED 4TH AXIS
6/12/2006
Provided By
Methods Machine Tools, Inc. - Machining Centers
A new configuration of the high-precision Fanuc RoboDrill, the RoboDrill T-21EL DDR 700 V size vertical machining center from Methods Machine Tools is available with a choice of 10,000 or 24,000 rpm spindles and employs a direct-drive indexing system to achieve extremely high positioning and cutting speeds in the 4th axis. Ideal for volume production and trunion applications, the 4th axis indexer has a built-in synchronous servomotor with an aiCZ sensor.
The DDR’s high-speed 4th axis dramatically reduces part cycle times by eliminating the positioning delays of traditional rotary tables and enabling the RoboDrill to machine at the high speeds of the other 3 axes. Its gear-free, zero-backlash linear motors are capable of unclamping, rotating 180°, and reclamping in approximately 0.4 seconds at a table-rotation speed of 150 rpm. Indexing precision is ± 0.0055 degrees (±20 seconds). The DDR’s clamping force — up to 220 ft-lbs — is unusual for its size. The 140-mm unit has a maximum torque of 192 ft-lbs and a maximum loading capacity of 220 pounds. A large 40-mm through-hole allows for pneumatic or hydraulic fixture actuation.
With feedrates to 2362 ipm, rapid traverses to 2125 ipm, accelerations to 1.5 G or more, and 0.9-second tool changes (tool-to-tool), the 30-taper RoboDrill offers high-speed milling capabilities comparable to many 40-taper machines. In addition it offers lightning-fast drilling, deburring, and tapping, including rigid tapping to 8000 rpm, peck tapping for blind holes or gummy materials, and high-speed reverse tapping (up to 20 times faster than infeed). The sophisticated Fanuc 31i-A5 Nano CNC provides control resolution of 1 nanometer, an optional 1000 block “look-ahead,” and a 0.4 ms block processing speed, ensuring exceptional surface finishes. Other features include precision-enhancing thermal compensation and HRV control.
For more information, contact John Crean, RoboDrill Product Manager, Methods Machine Tools, Inc., 64 Union Avenue, Sudbury, MA 01776, TEL: (978) 443-5388, FAX: (978) 440-9405, www.methodsmachine.com.
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NEW 3-TURRET TURNING CENTER DRAMATICALLY REDUCES CYCLE TIMES
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6/12/2006
NEW 3-TURRET TURNING CENTER DRAMATICALLY REDUCES CYCLE TIMES
6/12/2006
Provided By
Methods Machine Tools, Inc. - Machining Centers
A new multitasking turning center from Nakamura-Tome offers 100% stock-on turning and machining that virtually eliminates lost productivity due to tool changes. The Super NTY3 has three turrets, each with a Y axis — all in a relatively small footprint (109.45”W x 77.6”D). It dramatically outperforms single-tool multitasking machines, allowing one-pass complete turning/machining/finishing and reducing part cycle times.
The Super NTY3 offers multi-point machining with process integration, combining turning and milling capabilities in one machine. Its three 6000 RPM milling motors can simultaneously machine two flat surfaces (top and bottom) on one spindle and one surface on the other. Extremely rigid, each turret holds 12 driven or 24 stationary tools, for a maximum of 72 tool stations. Accelerating Y axes have travels of 2.44” (62 mm). Up to 29/20 HP is available for shaft/work turning with synchronized spindles (14.5/10 HP per spindle). The Super NTY3 has a maximum turning diameter of 6.89” (175 mm), a maximum turning length of 23.5” (588 mm), and bar capacity of 1.65” (42 mm).
The Super NTY3 features the Fanuc 31iA CNC control with nanometer resolution for smooth movement and improved accuracy. Overload detection and NT Nurse programming/monitoring software are also standard, as is NT Work Navigator (torque-type) software, which further reduces costs by eliminating the need for positioning jigs and fixtures.
A leading supplier of precision machine tools and accessories for over 45 years, Methods Machine Tools, Inc., is the exclusive North American source for Nakamura-Tome turning centers, providing installation, applications support, training, parts, and service through a nationwide network of dealers.
For more information, contact: Scott McIver, Vice President, Methods Machine Tools, Inc., 65 Union Avenue, Sudbury, MA 01776, TEL: (978) 443-5388, FAX: (978) 440-9405, www.methodsmachine.com.
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NEW ATC TURNING/MILLING CENTER ACCOMMODATES LARGER PARTS
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6/12/2006
NEW ATC TURNING/MILLING CENTER ACCOMMODATES LARGER PARTS
6/12/2006
Provided By
Methods Machine Tools, Inc. - Machining Centers
Combining turning and milling capabilities, the new Super NTJX multitasking turning center from Nakamura-Tome significantly outperforms single-tool multitasking machines, virtually eliminating lost productivity due to tool changes. With Y axes on both the upper and lower turrets, the Super NTJX is ideal for parts with angular faces, and its long-stroke upper Y Axis easily accommodates larger parts. It has milling/drilling capability (including Y-axis machining) on both upper and lower turrets, and a B-Axis tool spindle with 40-station ATC. With more than a dozen left/right-top/bottom-milling/turning combinations, the Super NTJX permits 100% stock-on conditions and allows unparalleled flexibility to optimize process machining and minimize part cycle times.
A maximum of 34.9/24.8 HP is available for synchronized shaft/work turning with two spindle motors (Left: 20.1/14.8 HP, 8000 RPM; and Right: 14.8/10.1 HP, 6000 RPM). The NTJX has a maximum turning diameter of 9.65” (245 mm), a maximum turning length of 42.91” (1090 mm), and bar capacity of 2” (51 mm). Machining may be performed using the upper B-Axis tool spindle or with lower turret driven tools. With a Y-Axis stroke of 5.5" (140 mm) and a B-Axis positioning range of 230°, the 10/5 HP 8000 RPM tool spindle is ideal for larger parts. A 40-station servo-driven ATC provides 1.3 second tool changes (tool-to-tool). The 7.4/5 HP 6000 RPM driven lower turret accommodates 12 rotating or 24 fixed tools and has a Y-Axis stroke of 2.75" (70 mm). The Super NTJX's footprint is approximately
186”W x 115”D.
The Super NTJX features the Fanuc 31iA CNC control with nanometer resolution for smooth movement and improved accuracy. Overload detection and NT Nurse programming/monitoring software are also standard, as is NT Work Navigator (torque-type) software, which further reduces costs by eliminating the need for positioning jigs and fixtures.
A leading supplier of precision machine tools and accessories for over 45 years, Methods Machine Tools, Inc., is the exclusive North American source for Nakamura-Tome turning centers, providing installation, applications support, training, parts, and service through a nationwide network of dealers.
For more information, contact: Scott McIver, Vice President, Methods Machine Tools, Inc., 65 Union Avenue, Sudbury, MA 01776, TEL: (978) 443-5388, FAX: (978) 440-9405, www.methodsmachine.com.
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METHODS MACHINE TOOLS CREATES NEW DIE/MOLD DIVISION
-
6/12/2006
METHODS MACHINE TOOLS CREATES NEW DIE/MOLD DIVISION
6/12/2006
Provided By
Methods Machine Tools, Inc. - Machining Centers
Methods Machine Tools announces the creation of a new division to serve mold and die makers. Methods Die/Mold will concentrate initially on sales, training, and service for Matsuura LX-0 ultra-high-speed machining centers, TrodeMaster™ electrode machining centers, Exeron CNC Die Sinker EDM machines, and Fanuc Wire EDM machines.
With linear motors on all axes and an ultra-high-speed spindle, the compact Matsuura LX-0 Ultra High Speed Machining Center is lightning-fast. Ideal for hard die milling of complex shapes, it offers substantial productivity gains over conventional high-speed machines.
The heavy-duty TrodeMaster™ is a modified Fanuc RoboDrill high-speed vertical machining center specially equipped for cutting graphite EDM electrodes. With full enclosures and a complete Torrit dust collection system, it is ideal for small job shops as well as large in-house EDM facilities. With feedrates to 2125 ipm, accelerations to 1.5 G or more, a 24,000 rpm Big Plus™ spindle, and 0.9-second tool changes, it dramatically shortens the machining time of even the most complex electrodes. Spindle HRV control and thermal compensation ensure dynamic accuracy and circularity to 0.00011” TIR. The TrodeMaster’s rigidity also makes it ideal for hard-die milling and the production of copper electrodes.
Rugged, dependable, and precise, Exeron CNC Die Sinker EDM machines have maintenance-free, large-volume, rise-and-fall work tanks that provide the thermal stability necessary during high-amperage burns. Table- and ram-mounted suction or pressure flushing ports, impulse generators to 120 A (peak) featuring Digi-Spark™ technology, automatic tooling chucks, remote pendants, automatic lubrication, chiller units, and infrared fire suppression systems are all standard equipment. Options include P/U electrode changers with up to 30 stations.
Fanuc iC Series machines are workhorse wire EDMs for producing mold inserts and components. In addition to the fastest cutting rates using standard brass wire, they feature the world’s fastest, most reliable AWF system, which threads while submerged (spark-to-spark) in 14 seconds!
“This new division is dedicated to helping our customers stanch the flow of mold and die business overseas,” said Methods Chairman of the Board Scott McIver. “Methods has always had highly productive and versatile machine tools for mold and die making. Now we have an experienced, knowledgeable staff to provide the applications engineering support customers need to outperform foreign competition.”
Methods Machine Tools, Inc., has been the exclusive North American source for many well-known precision machine tools and accessories for over 48 years. The company provides installation, parts, service, and training through its nationwide network of direct offices and full service dealers.
For more information, contact: Scott McIver, Chairman of the Board, Methods Machine Tools, Inc., 65 Union Avenue, Sudbury, MA 01776, TEL: (978) 443-5388, FAX: (978) 443-7466, www.methodsmachine.com.
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Hole Driller EDMs Offer High Performance at Reasonable Price
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6/9/2006
Hole Driller EDMs Offer High Performance at Reasonable Price
6/9/2006
Provided By
Methods Machine Tools, Inc. - Machining Centers
Available in manual and CNC models, Methods High-Speed Hole Driller EDM machines from Methods EDM offer speed, accuracy, and productivity unmatched in benchtop systems, for about the same price. Heavy bridge construction, AC servomotors, and precision ball screws ensure precise drilling in hardened materials such as tool steels, carbide, and titanium.
Methods Hole Drillers drill deep, small-diameter holes using rotating brass or copper electrodes from .004" to .256" in diameter. Water-resistivity monitoring and programmable flushing make submerged drilling fast and accurate while extending electrode life and producing excellent surface finishes. An automatic Smooth Start™ feature decreases current at hole starts to minimize burr formulation at the point of entry. Other standard control features include programmable depth and retraction, three display modes, and automatic memory backup. The CNC model offers closed-loop control resolution of .00004" (all axes), programmable scaling, programmable 360° rotation, and interfacing with external devices.
The Methods Hole Driller’s submersible tank accommodates parts up to 15.75" x 15.75" x 12" with weights up to 1325 pounds. A generous stainless steel worktable, adjustable workholding rails, and a hinged tank door allow quick, accurate part fixturing. An “edge find” feature speeds setups by providing fast, precise location of both the workpiece and the electrode. An optional automatic changer holds 24 electrodes and 5 guides for greater productivity and unattended operation.
A division of Methods Machine Tools, Inc., Methods EDM is the exclusive North American source for sales, services, and training support for Fanuc Wire EDM machines, exeron Die Sinker EDM machines, and Methods High-Speed Hole Driller EDMs.
For more information, contact: Stephen L. Bond, National Sales Manager, Methods EDM, 64 Union Avenue, Sudbury, MA 01776, TEL: (978) 443-5388, FAX: (978) 440-9405, www.methodsmachine.com.
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Robotic Cell Maximizes Productivity of Wire EDMs
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1/10/2006
Robotic Cell Maximizes Productivity of Wire EDMs
1/10/2006
Provided By
Methods Machine Tools, Inc. - Machining Centers
A new Fanuc robotic EDM cell from Methods EDM dramatically increases production capacity through automated loading and unloading. The cell features a high-speed Fanuc 6-axis robot and can be configured to serve either a single or multiple Fanuc iC Series wire EDM machines. Robotic loading and unloading of Fanuc iC Series Wire EDM machines makes “lights out” manufacturing a reality, maximizing productivity and profitability.
The innovative design of the Fanuc M-710iB/70 robot provides a large work envelope in a minimum of floor space. With a standard Joint 1 rotation of 360°, the smallest Joint 2 interference zone in the industry, and the ability of Joint 3 to flip over and work behind itself, the robot can reach anywhere (no “dead spots”) and offers precise positioning and unparalleled performance. This ability to reach anywhere within a 360° envelope permits optimal floorspace utilization by allowing the placement of storage racks for workpieces, tooling, and robot grippers where they would be inaccessible to 3-axis robots. Directly coupled drives on all axes ensure repeatability of ± 0.15 mm.
Robot motion is controlled by exclusive CellMaster™ cell control software. After it picks up a workpiece from a designated loading zone, the robot places it on a storage rack, logging its location. The cell control software, which includes presetting functions, then matches the CNC program, cutting technology, robot gripper, and any tooling or fixturing with the part. The software then allows the user to schedule jobs, reprioritize them if necessary, and monitor individual job progress and/or machine status. It also allows a user to monitor the status of cell machines and jobs for multiple cells.
The superior performance and reliability of Fanuc iC Series Wire EDMs make them ideal for robotic automation. An exceptionally reliable auto wire feed system and large 35-pound spool capacity allow extended unattended operation. (An optional 100-pound wire spooler is available for larger, longer running, or more complicated jobs.) With an extremely powerful, lightning-fast CNC, Fanuc iC Series machines offer the fastest cutting speeds of any wire EDM using economical brass wire — 31.0 inches2/hour with uncoated wire and 33.6 inches2/hour with coated wire.
A division of Methods Machine Tools, Inc., Methods EDM is the exclusive North American source for sales, services, and training support for Fanuc Wire EDM machines, exeron® Die Sinker EDM machines, and Methods HoleMaster High-Speed Hole Driller EDMs.
For more information, contact: Stephen L. Bond, National Sales Manager, Methods EDM, 64 Union Avenue, Sudbury, MA 01776, TEL: (978) 443-5388, FAX: (978) 440-9405, www.methodsmachine.com.
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System Profiles PCD Cutting Tools on a Wire EDM
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1/10/2006
System Profiles PCD Cutting Tools on a Wire EDM
1/10/2006
Provided By
Methods Machine Tools, Inc. - Machining Centers
The new PCD Edge™ System allows quick and precise profiling of polycrystalline diamond (PCD) cutting tools using a Fanuc iC Series wire EDM machine. Available from Methods EDM, the system consists of advanced programming/probing/cutting software, a microfinish power supply/generator optimized for cutting PCD, a Hirschmann rotary axis, a Renishaw probe (mounted on the EDM machine), and a tool clamping system. Ideal for PCD tooling OEMs, shops that maintain their own tooling, and contract sharpening services, the system can be used to create original profiles or to sharpen (restore profiles on) worn PCD-tipped tools.
The PCD Edge System is quick and easy to use for even the most complex tools or profiles. Users can design tool edge contours on their own CAD systems, eliminating the need to learn a new system or change procedures. Intuitive and user-friendly, PCD Edge software provides special input masks to simplify parameter selection, program simulation, design modification, and verification. With no special programming knowledge, the user can create up to eight profile sections with specific parameters for each. Sophisticated software and a rotary axis permit adjustment of the relief angles on each contour element as well as automatic measuring (with feedback) of 3-dimensional PCD tip positions (rake and shear angles). With optional control software, the entire process (probing through program generation through cutting) can be automated for unattended operation.
A division of Methods Machine Tools, Inc., Methods EDM is the exclusive North American source for installation, applications support, training, parts, and service for Fanuc Wire EDM machines, Exeron® Die Sinker EDM machines, and Methods HoleMaster High-Speed Hole Driller EDMs.
For more information, contact: Stephen L. Bond, National Sales Manager, Methods EDM, 64 Union Avenue, Sudbury, MA 01776, TEL: (978) 443-5388, FAX: (978) 440-9405, www.methodsmachine.com.
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Wire EDMs Exceptionally Fast and Precise
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1/10/2006
Wire EDMs Exceptionally Fast and Precise
1/10/2006
Provided By
Methods Machine Tools, Inc. - Machining Centers
With exceptionally fast cutting speeds, the world’s fastest auto wire feed system, and the world’s most powerful EDM CNC, Fanuc iC Series Wire EDM machines maximize precision, productivity, and profitability. Available from Methods Machine Tools in five models with Z-axis heights to 16”, these machines provide exceptional accuracy and surface finishes and come standard with features including artificial intelligence cutting functions, microfinish power supplies, digital servo systems, linear glass scales, tooling packages, high-pressure flushing, chiller units, and quick-change cartridge filtration systems.
With five microprocessors to control artificial intelligence cutting functions, graphics, keyboard, and power supply, the Fanuc 180is-WB CNC is fiber-optically interfaced to perform 8 times faster than any other EDM control. Using economical brass wire, Fanuc iC Series machines offer the fastest cutting speeds of any wire EDM — 31.0 inches2/hour with uncoated wire and 33.6 inches2/hour with coated wire. Revolutionary R1 technology monitors the number of effective pulses per second and adjusts the machine’s feed rate to maximize cutting speed and minimize wire breaks, even on difficult jobs such as those involving PCD. A Workpiece Thickness Adaptive Control function monitors thickness variations in the workpiece and automatically adjusts cutting current, reducing overall machining time by 30%. High Response Vector Control helps provide true circular accuracy and excellent vertical straightness.
Noncutting time is reduced and productivity is further enhanced by Fanuc’s Auto Wire Feed System, which anneals, cuts, moves to a new location, threads, and begins discharging — spark-to-spark in only 18 seconds! It can thread .010” diameter wire through a start hole as small as .015” while the workpiece is submerged. A 35-pound wire spool allows the completion of complicated jobs with longer run times. With a fully integrated 6-axis robot and exclusive cell-control software, Fanuc iC Series machines can run unattended for extended periods, making “lights out” manufacturing a reality.
For more information, contact: Stephen L. Bond, National Sales Manager, Methods EDM, 64 Union Avenue, Sudbury, MA 01776, TEL: (978) 443-5388, FAX: (978) 440-9405, www.methodsmachine.com.