FEATURE PRODUCTION EQUIPMENT
CUTTING EDGE TOOLING streamlines production processes
The NP5 incorporates a redesigned pick
and place Rollomatic robotic loading system. Faster and easier to set-up with only a few parameter changes in the software, it offers a larger tool capacity of 20mm diameter by 300mm long. This allows larger diameter batches to
be run in automatic mode should the need arise. The NP5 improves synergy between other machines at ITC as the loading system now uses pallets that are common with four of the company's additional CNC tool and cutter grinder machines. This allows for the easy flow of urgent batch work when required. A further benefit of the NP5 is the
programmable C-axis which provides the potential to grind flats and conduct thread grinding operations beyond the realms of the previous 148P4 machine. "We have purchased the automatic
In order to maintain its position as a benchmark in cutting tool technology ITC has invested in a grinding centre from Rollomatic
A
s part of a program which has seen Industrial Tooling Corporation (ITC)
invest over £1m in new machine tools in the past 12 months, the company has taken delivery of a Rollomatic NP5. Adding to the Anca GX7 and four Walter Helitronic grinding centres delivered through 2013, the NP5 is a direct replacement for a Rollomatic 148P4 CNC grinding centre purchased in 2005. "The new Rollomatic demonstrates our
ongoing commitment to our policy of equipment renewal,” comments production manager Kevin Ford. “This ensures we maintain our investment in leading edge technology and the Rollomatic offers many improvements in time cycles and quality levels achievable in comparison to the previous machine." While the acquisition is part of an
ongoing strategy to maintain ITC's position as a benchmark in cutting tool technology and innovation, the NP5 has brought a wealth of benefits for ITC. In comparison to the previous Rollomatic 148P4 that had a maximum tool diameter capacity of 12mm the NP5 offers a 25mm diameter capacity that allows ITC to produce larger tools on the machine. This improves scheduling and
14 APRIL 2014 | FACTORY EQUIPMENT
capacity and streamlines production of its larger diameter cutting tools. Furthermore, with a built in Fanuc control with Rollomatic software, ITC can now draw tool profiles direct on the machine as opposed to previously working off-line and sending the tool profile to the machine. Additionally, with a touchscreen display and Rollomatic's Nano-Grind Software, the grinding centre is very easy to use and set-up.
Marposs in-process gauging option and this enables unmanned running of very close tolerance work and allows us to achieve higher batch tolerance than was previously possible, all with minimum intervention,” continues Ford. “This is permitted as the Marposs system measures the cutting tools mid-cycle and automatically compensates the machine parameters for the next part."
QUALITY GUARANTEED During installation and set-up the Marposs system recorded a one micron tolerance band over an unmanned 12-hour shift - a level of process control that will enable ITC to guarantee the quality of its cutting tools in the future. "The new machine slotted straight into
the space vacated by the original machine, utilising the original coolant feed to the centralised coolant system,” concludes Ford. “This enabled a short period of downtime from the original machine being decommissioned to the new one being up and running. “The NP5 has slotted straight into our
production facility and improved productivity, capabilities and quality. These are all parameters we demand from our new machine acquisitions to ensure we are the benchmark in cutting tool technology."
The NP5 incorporates a redesigned pick and place Rollomatic robotic loading system
ITC
T: 01827 304500
www.itc-ltd.co.uk
Enter 304 / FACTORYEQUIPMENT
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36