to the machine. For very complex parts, they can achieve an even higher degree of certainty by generating an STL file from a SolidWorks model, comparing the toolpaths against it. This allows them to quickly detect and visualize even the smallest areas of concern. “Looking back over the past five years, our CNC machin-
ing departments are like night and day in terms of capabilities, productivity, and lead times. We have customers turn to Astro for precision machining because we provide a better solution,” Blow concludes. During these years, the head count at Astro Machine has increased by 50% to more than 70 while sales have more than doubled. ME
For more information from Mastercam/CNC Software Inc.,
go to www.mastercam.com, or phone 860-875-5006. Shop Goes Digital with HMC, ERP
G
iven the fast pace of modern manufacturing, literally every second saved in a cycle means money in the
pocket of a shop. D&S Manufacturing (Black River Falls, WI) has benefitted from the creativity of its employees and their ability to get the most out of their equipment. D&S Manufacturing is an ISO 9001:2008-certified manufacturer of large-scale components, assemblies, and complete weld- ments made from carbon steel plate, as well as aluminum and stainless steel. Machining and welding capabilities are complemented by an integrated lineup of value-added ser- vices, including liquid spray painting, shot blasting, assem-
D&S added a deck structure—complete with three hydraulic-lift tables with rollers—to the pallet loading area of the Toyoda FH1250SX HMC. The left and right lifts are for products that will be loaded onto the machine’s two pal- lets. After a product is cut, it returns to the lift table where it originated. The table then spins 360° to put the part back down on the center roller, which is reserved for completed products. When the rollers become filled, the operator uses the machine’s lights to call a forklift to carry the products to their next operation.
bly and testing, that enable the company to produce quality parts efficiently and economically.
When D&S management decided to add an FH1250SX HMC from Toyoda Machinery (Arlington Heights, IL) to its horizontal machine lineup, it knew production would increase. Combined with the company’s advanced shop setup, the machine gave operators the ability to double their output in a
I HAVE PROBES ON MY MACHINE; I DON’T NEED A PRESETTER
Misconception #8
The Truth Is: A probe may be an effective way to verify tool lengths between cuts, but it is not the most efficient way to set your tools. A “guess-and-check” process for making adjustments wastes valuable cutting time. A Speroni MAGIS Tool Presetter can verify runout, measure length, diameter, radius, and other geometries using measuring icons, and it can also inspect tools for wear. Spend less time adjusting and more time cutting.
The notch-free nut design of our Mega Micro Chuck prevents vibration at high speeds for superior balance and concentricity. It not only eliminates whistling noise and coolant splattering, but also assures increased strength of the nut itself. The super slim taper design of the body offers added strength for micro end milling, and reduces interference in long reach applications.
Learn about more common misconceptions and productivity Truth solutions at www.bigkaiser.com/truth or call 888-866-5776.
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