November 2014

Delcam’s PartMaker 2015
PartMaker Inc is bringing out the latest version of PartMaker Software for programming CNC mills, turn-mill centers, Swiss-type lathes and wire EDMs. The CAM software, PartMaker Version 2015 that is designed for programming various CNC machines is bound to change the future of CNC machine operations.

Transmission manufacturing with steel turning grades GC4325 and GC4315
With new technological developments emerging on the automotive horizon, manufacturers are faced with extremely high demands in terms of quality, security and productivity. The new Sandvik Coromant grades GC4315 and GC4325 with Inveio™ are designed to support the automotive industry with outstanding reliability and process security.

Okuma’s GENOS L300 MYW horizontal CNC lathe offers variety and flexibility at an affordable price
As part of Okuma’s Affordable Excellence product line up, the Genos L300 MYW x 500 horizontal CNC lathe offers cost-effective turning options for parts up to 460mm in length and up to 300mm in diameter. The model can be fitted with live tooling, Y-axis and W sub-spindle for maximum flexibility.

Mate Precision Tooling introduces new special spring packs and guides for Boschert busbar presses
“Busbar presses such as the Boschert CU Profi and the CU WK II were developed for the efficient processing of copper bars. Mate Precision Tooling has created special spring packs and guides specifically for these punching machines,” reports John Galich, Mate’s Marketing Manager.

Kasto releases Kastologic warehouse management software
To complement its range of storage systems and controls, Kasto has upgraded its warehouse management software from Kastolvr to Kastologic. Core functions consist of an intuitive graphical user interface, an interface to the customer’s host computer system and a dashboard for overall visualisation of warehouse management.

One for all: a single tap solution for multiple applications – Iscar’s new Onetap taps
Iscar has introduced a product line, called Onetap, which has an optimised cutting geometry for universal use in a wide range of materials. It is said to allow customers the opportunity to significantly reduce their tap stock usage and also achieve the highest efficiency in production.

SMTCL introduces VivaTurn lathes
SMTCL has introduced a new line of lathes called VivaTurn, which will bring high performance and high productivity to job shops. These lathes were designed by SMTCL’s Schiess-Tech design center in cooperation with designers in Shanghai, China.

Achieve true 90° shoulder milling with high-performance Widia VSM11™ platform
As a job-shop owner, how would you describe an ideal, go-to tool? Certainly, it should be a high-performance tool that can cover multiple functions such as shoulder milling, slotting, pocket milling, ramping and helical interpolation. And naturally it should have the performance and working life that make it an economical win for present and future production tasks.

Bystronic’s ByVision Bending on tablet PCs and voice control
As of now, ByVision Bending, the user interface for Bystronic press brakes, can also be installed on Windows tablet computers. Users are now able to access the processes and manufacturing details of press brakes and discuss them with customers, around the clock and regardless of location.

Powerful control hardware for compact CNCs – Siemens
The Siemens Drive Technologies Division has developed new control hardware with greater computing power for its panel-based Sinumerik 828D and Sinumerik 828D Basic compact CNCs for turning and milling. The new PPU2xx.3 panel processing units replace the previous PPU2xx.2 generation, and are available for all six versions of the Siemens compact CNC.

Hypertherm expands Powermax line-up with the launch of Powermax125 air plasma system
Hypertherm, a manufacturer of advanced cutting systems, has announced the launch of the Powermax125®, a new cutting and gouging system delivering the most power of any portable air plasma available on the market. The recommended cut capacity for the new system is 38mm at speeds of up to 457mm per minute, though it can sever metal more than 57mm thick if needed.

The new generation of the Zeiss Contura coordinate measuring machine
The new generation of the Zeiss Contura coordinate measuring machine is more attractive than ever: it now offers additional measuring ranges and a wide spectrum of optical sensors. Zeiss Industrial Metrology has introduced the latest generation of the successful Zeiss Contura. This system provides a platform for flexible, reliable and uncompromising quality assurance.

Welding torches feature close-to-process wire feeding – SKS
Perfect results for automated arc welding are only possible if all components meet the highest technical standards. This applies, in particular, to the torch systems – the interface between the robot and the joint. SKS Welding Systems developed specific solutions for this very feature. SKS Welding Systems offers the Frontpull 8 family of welding torches.

Walter extends Cut-SX single-edged grooving system
The grooving blades and internally cooled toolholders for the new Walter Cut-SX single-edged grooving system are now available in two additional dimensions and designs. Process reliability is the top priority for grooving and parting off, particularly when the tool cuts deeper grooves into the workpiece.

TaeguTec’s Typhoon adds power to low RPM machines
Machine shops looking for the power of mother nature in order to transform their limited RPM machines into speedy F-1 style workhorses at a fraction of the cost can now look no further than TaeguTec’s newest offering. The Typhoon, TaeguTec’s revolutionary high-speed jet spindle, was developed for applications that need high RPMs for small diameter tools on slow RPM machines.

A CNC turning machine for those without CNC programming skills
Knuth Machine Tools has introduced new and redesigned models of its Numturn 420 CNC Cycle Lathe. This machine features a Siemens 808D MM Plus CNC control, which, according to the company, allows users without any previous CNC programming skills to produce parts with complex geometries.

Welding tubes quickly and easily with the laser
The Trumpf TruLaser Cell 1100 Basic Edition is a beam guidance system that makes starting to weld tubes and profiles far less complicated. The system was conceived especially for companies that work a smaller number of differing tube sizes and that wish to make the transition from conventional tube welding to welding with the laser.

Dassault Systèmes introduces Solidworks 2015
Solidworks 2015 covers all comprehensive aspects of the product development process with an intuitive, integrated 3D development environment that includes 3D design, simulation, electrical design, product data management and technical communication.

Reaming tools enable efficient machining of hard materials – Komet
The Fullmax universal reaming tool optimizes cutting geometry to yield high cutting performance in a variety of materials, including hardened steels ranging to HRc 62. Its modified cutting edge pitch is said to reduce chatter marks and improve chip formation, while targeted coolant holes promote smooth chip evacuation.

Victor Fortune Vcenter-H630HD heavy-duty horizontal machining center
The Victor Fortune Vcenter-H630HD heavy-duty horizontal machining center (HMC) has been upgraded and features a whole host of new functions. These include three-axis rapid feeds that have been increased (compared with the original VC-H630 model) to 944 IPM and are now heavy-duty box ways.

Redesigned CAM engine anticipates mill, lathe evolution
Gibbs and Associates has introduced GibbsCAM 2015 for programming CNC machine tools, which is built on the GibbsCAM UKM (Universal Kinematic Machine) software engine. Though backward compatible, the completely reengineered engine is designed to address what the company sees as an increasingly blurred line between the definition of mills and lathes with the advent of turn-mill machines and multitasking machines.
September 2014

The new size for entry level five sided machining – DMG Mori DMU 70 ecoline
With the DMU 70 ecoline, DMG Mori is now offering a further high-accuracy universal milling machine for 5-sided machining of simple to highly complex workpieces in the entry-level sector alongside the highly popular DMU 50 ecoline. With longer travels and more powerful spindles, the DMU 70 ecoline continues the successful concept of 5-sided machining for price-conscious and quality-oriented users.

Sandvik Coromant unveils easy-choice, secure tapping series
The new CoroTap™ –XM is an easy-to-select range of taps for customers faced with working in a multitude of materials and/or the need to switch almost constantly between medium and small batch sizes. The flexibility of these innovative taps is a result of optimized grades and unique geometry created especially for working in ever-changing machine shop environments.

Victor Vcenter-AX350 advanced 5-axis vertical machining center
The Victor Taichung AX350 VMC is a fully simultaneous 5-axis machining centre. Driven by a Fanuc control system, this machine is built utilising the strengths already established on the two, three axis VMC ranges. The advanced 5-axis application (by integrating a trunnion table into a Vcenter-A72) has lowered the table surface to facilitate the loading of larger and heavier parts than by fitting a 5th axis table onto a 3-axis VMC.

Hypertherm introduces HyPrecision Waterjet, a complete line of waterjet products with Advanced Intensifier Technology
Hypertherm has announced the introduction of HyPrecision Waterjet, a complete line of waterjet products. These products include pumps ranging from 15 to 150 horsepower, precision cutting heads, and abrasive delivery equipment. The announcement is the result of Hypertherm’s acquisition of AccuStream…

TaeguTec’s ApexMills offer economical solutions
TaeguTec is now offering economical solid carbide end mills for general purpose machining on small depths-of-cut applications. The ApexMill economical type’s two and four flute flat end mills are offered in various lengths to cover a wide range of roughing and finishing application on various materials such as alloy, carbon, cast iron, tool, stainless, hardened and pre-hardened steels.

A-Tap – new product that showcases OSG’s 75 years
The A-Tap is an all-purpose tap series designed to simplify tool management and to excel in a wide variety of materials and applications. The A-Tap is made from powdered metal HSS and has OSG’s patented V coating to achieve excellent wear resistance. The spiral flute series has adopted a variable helix flute design, which encourages stable chip evacuation and reduces cutting forces.

SMTCL Brio Miller 8 vertical machining center
SMTCL’s Brio Miller 8 CNC vertical machining center is available for machining complex parts demanding high precision such as plates, discs, shells and moulds. It performs a series of processes like milling, drilling, tapping, boring, reaming and contouring. Main components such as bed, table, slide carriage, column and spindle box are made of high-strength resin bonded sand casting.

Edgecam 2014 R2 released
New functionality in Edgecam 2014 R2 includes automatic conversion of 2D design data to a 3D model, and other significant enhancements to Edgecam Worfklow, from the user interface to improved automatic machining processes. In addition to the 2D to 3D for Part Modeller feature, Edgecam 2014 R2 includes a new Edgecam Workflow Solids modeller, comprehensive machining strategies in Edgecam Workflow, and dynamic co-ordinate system creation.

Iscar’s latest developments in parting and grooving systems
Through the work of the company’s prolific R&D Department, and prompted by the evolving needs of global industry, each year Iscar introduces a multitude of advanced new cutting tools. This desire to provide customers with the very latest, most efficient metal cutting technology is reflected in the recently launched additions to Iscar’s comprehensive Grip range of parting and grooving tools.

Yaskawa presents new high-end DX200 controller for Motoman robots
The DX200 controller for Motoman robots from Yaskawa will be exhibited at EuroBLECH 2014. The new high-end controller is an extension of the highly successful DX100 model with a range of additional options, e.g. safety features, and offers more than 120 application-specific functions. This particularly benefits system integrators and industrial end customers who use Motoman robots for welding and handling tasks.

Mastercam’s Dynamic Motion Technology slashing time, cost, wear
Machining program developer CNC Software Inc. (Mastercam) is promising a new look at its toolpath engine — Dynamic Motion, describing it as a time saver for programmers and machine operators, one that “can slash machine time by as much as 75%.” Dynamic Motion is the title given to a toolpath generating method that Mastercam developed for milling and turning operations.

Feeler FT-Series CNC turning centers
The Feeler FT-Series CNC turning centers line has been expanded with the new FT-250SY. The FT-250SY features a true Y-Axis with 100 mm (+/- 50 mm) of travel, which provides increased rigidity and a more robust machining environment. Also, by offering an 8-inch sub-spindle in addition to the primary 10-inch spindle, the FT-250SY provides more capacity than competitive turning centers.

Okuma’s LB4000 EX-II CNC lathe accommodates large workpieces
The LB4000 EX-II 2-axis CNC lathe is equipped with Okuma’s high power, high torque PREX motor, delivering high quality machining for heavy to high-speed cutting with a through-hole diameter that can accommodate larger work pieces. This versatile machine provides the capacity to efficiently turn and mill pipe-type products for the oil and gas industry. At IMTS 2014 this machine will be shown cutting a downhole part using tooling from Sandvik, a member of Partners in THINC.

Hurco’s five-axis machine with large work zone
Hurco’s five-axis VMX42SRTi milling center has a flush-mounted, direct-drive C-axis rotary table that provides a larger work zone than other models, the company says. Hurco’s five-axis VMX42SRTi milling center has a flush-mounted, direct-drive C-axis rotary table that provides a larger work zone than other models, the company says.

Precision grain technology reinvents grinding wheels – 3M
3M is effecting a paradigm shift in South Africa’s metal fabrication, casting and forging industry with its Cubitron™ II metallurgical grinding abrasives. Industries that have generally utilised generic, low-grade abrasive technology in metal fabrication, now have access to a product that produces a more consistent finish at a faster rate, over a service life that is at least double that of its nearest competitor, according to the company.

Renishaw introduces surface finish measurement for CMMs with new probe for Revo® five-axis system
Renishaw’s new SFP1 probe option for the Revo® five-axis measurement system is the first to allow surface finish inspection to be fully integrated within coordinate measurement routines. With a measurement capability of 6.3 to 0.05 Ra, the SFP1 surface finish probe makes the CMM a “single platform” metrology system.

Doosan’s all-new Puma SMX 3100 S mill-turn multi-tasking machine
The Puma SMX Series is Doosan’s third generation mill-turn multi-tasking machine, integrating the capabilities of a vertical machining center and horizontal turning center into one platform. The Puma SMX Series distinguishes itself with a more rigid 90⁰ vertical axis and forward positioned automatic tool changer, for improved milling capabilities as well as enhanced operator ergonomics.

The world’s fast fastest indexer – Kitagawa RK200
Rather than utilising traditional gear sets, the RK200 is fitted with a free roller gear cam reducer. The removal of parameter adjustment that is required by direct drive rotary tables means that a shorter indexing time is achieved to 180°, with the RK200 able to index through 90° in just 0.31 seconds and 180° in just 0.46 seconds. The roller gear cam reducer also greatly reduces heat generation.

Tongtai Q5 gang-type CNC lathe, engineered for fast production of small workpieces
The Tongtai Q5 gang-type CNC lathe, engineered for fast production of small workpieces. In addition to a 25 mm through-spindle bar capacity, the machine features a 6,000-rpm, 5.6-kW spindle motor, and offers a rapid traverse rate of 30 mpm. An 8,000-rpm spindle is also available as an option. The turning center’s straightforward gang tooling and lack of subspindle further promote fast machining.
July 2014

Large VMC for batch production, high speed machining – Victor Fortune
Victor Fortune has introduced a larger size vertical machining center to their range. The Vcenter-165 features XYZ travels of 1650 x 850 x 900 mm. All three axes feature boxway design for improved dynamic stiffness. The four box slideways used on the Y-axis are designed to eliminate table overhanging and stabilize machine performance.

Start-up toolkits available from Sandvik Coromant
Buying a new machine? Why not add a start-up toolkit? It’s a fact that relatively few machine tools are acquired direct from the manufacturer as a complete, turnkey package. Indeed, some 70 per cent of new machines are sold un-tooled by machine tool suppliers, agents or distributors.

Tongtai launches TC turning series
Available from long time South African agent PBS Machine Tools the TC series of CNC lathes, manufactured by one of Taiwan’s leading machine tool manufacturers Tongtai, are said to have improved machine efficiency and structure through finite element analysis, despite the reduction in saddle and tailstock weight.

Iscar introduces T465 FLN – R-22ST face-mills
The robust new range features protective seats to improve durability across a variety of heavy machining applications. The tools are available in a diameter range of 125 mm to 315 mm and are designed for machining large parts such as those found in power generation or in marine industry applications.

Quaser MV234 VMC is brand’s largest capacity model available
Quaser have launched the MV 234 CNC vertical machining centre. The MV 234 has a 2 210 by 762 mm table and an X-axis travel of 2 040 mm, which the company says is ideal for machine shops specialising in large mould and die manufacture or for those requiring a pallet-changing machining centre.

New functions added to Bystronic fibre laser machines to increase productivity
Sheet metalworking machine manufacturer, Bystronic, has extended the functionality of its fibre laser profilers to make them even more efficient. The BySprint Fiber range of machines will in future have two new options, one that monitors the cutting process in real time and corrects it, and another that allows automatic nozzle exchange.

Hypertherm introduces ProNest 2015 CADCAM nesting software
Hypertherm, a manufacturer of plasma, laser and waterjet cutting systems has announced a major version upgrade to its ProNest® advanced CAD/CAM nesting software for automated cutting. ProNest 2015 contains a number of improvements designed to make the software more efficient and easier to use.

SolidWorks Inspection application is now available
Meeting international standards is key in today’s global manufacturing world. Regardless of whether a company does business locally or globally, it has to submit early design and manufacturing reports such as a First Article Inspection (FAI) report, inspection report or ballooned drawing (where dimensions for inspections are drawn in a balloon or bubble shape).

Haas introduces line of big-bore turning centers
For shops wanting more bar capacity without the space requirements of a larger-footprint lathe, Haas Automation now offers a complete line of big-bore turning centers. Each of these versatile turning centers offers more power, a larger chuck, and greater bar capacity – without having to step up to the next larger machine.

Hexagon HH-A-2.5 probe heads unveiled
Hexagon Metrology has launched the new HH-A-T2.5 | HH-A-H2.5 Probe Heads for CMMs. The HH-A-2.5 range of probe heads feature a number of new innovations including a fully embedded controller, capacitive crash protection and the all new heavy duty kinematic joint.

Walter extends X.treme micro drill range to cover depths up 30 times diameter
Tooling giant Walter has extended its range of X.treme DM micro drills with the addition of 2 mm to 2.95 mm diameter drills for depths up to 30 times diameter. Walter’s X.treme DM micro drills are now available for producing highly-accurate holes at five, eight, 12, 16, 20, 25 and 30 times diameter, to cover a host of small hole demands.

The new Studer S141 universal internal cylindrical grinding machine
Studer is advancing into a new market segment with the launch of the S141 universal internal cylindrical grinding machine, namely that of long work pieces. The company says the S141 is the ideal machine for grinding spindle shafts, spindle housings, rotor shafts or axes.

New inductive absolute rotary encoders with hollow shaft
With its new generation of inductive absolute rotary encoders, Heidenhain has expanded the capabilities of its ECI/EBI 100 series. The preferred area of application covers demanding tasks, e.g. for hollow shaft motors and torque motors as well as for the limited installation space in modern machine designs.

Complete range of cut-off and grinding wheels – Norton
Over the last few years, there have been significant improvements in the steel used in rails. Today’s standards in track rail are purer and harder. Especially hardened heat treated rail with high levels of carbon, manganese and silicon are tough to cut and grind.

Compact cutting machines with either fiber laser or CO2 laser, ready for flexible use – Knuth
The laser cutting machines of the type Laser-Jet from Knuth Machine Tools have been well proven in many industrial branches for small series and single part production. Due to the compactness they need only small installation space. They are extremely flexible in use, ergonomically to handle, and very economical.
May 2014

Victor Fortune introduces a new range of heavy-duty lathes
Victor Fortune has introduced a new range of heavy-duty lathes into the South African market. Occupying the larger end of the turning range, the heavy-duty lathes and larger through-bore machines will complement existing products offered by Victor Fortune.

Edgecam is first CADCAM system to incorporate Sandvik Coromant Adveon tool library
Edgecam, CADCAM software from Vero Software, is the first package to integrate the Sandvik Coromant Adveon tool library, allowing easy construction of tool models for use in NC programme generation and testing. The capability will be built into Edgecam’s 2014 R2 software release.

Heavy duty 65° face mills with tangentially clamped inserts – Iscar
Iscar is introducing the T465 FLN D…R-22ST, a modified family of 65° cutting edge angle face mills with protective seats, thus improving their durability in heavy machining applications. The 65° cutting edge angle is a very efficient solution for high metal removal face machining of cast iron and steel components. Using these face mills minimises burrs and edge chipping, especially for cast iron applications.

Yaskawa Motoman MA1440 welding robot offers improved welding speed
Sleek, strong and fast, the new 6-axis MA1440 arc welding robot features a six kilogram payload, up from three kilograms on the MA1400 model. Additionally, compared to the MA1400, the new MA1440 features a 23% larger wrist hole for utilities and is up to 15% faster.

Vargus makes additions to grooving and thread milling ranges
Vargus Tooling has made numerous additions to its Groovex, TSMD deep hole thread milling, Mega Line thread generation ranges and has also introduced a special clamping system for its Vargus gear milling inserts. Vargus’ Groovex grooving, boring and micro-machining solutions now include GrooVical indexable inserts for internal grooving and parting-off applications.

Servo-electric turret punch press fits in compact spaces – Prima Power
Prima Power offers a comprehensive product range in 2D and 3D laser systems, turret punch presses, cells combining punching with right angle shearing or laser cutting, press brakes and automated bending solutions and Flexible Manufacturing Systems, all supported by sophisticated software and extensive service offering.

TaeguTec expands RhinoRush line
Due to the huge success of the new RhinoRush family of tools that was released last year, TaeguTec has expanded the line with new insert designs and holders, which cover a wider range of applications for various sectors. The T-Holder clamping system is just one of the new additions to the RhinoRush family, a tool that is widely known for its simplified mounting design, smaller size inserts and rigid clamping system.

Economical bending – The new generation Trumpf TruBend series 3000
The new generation of the Trumpf TruBend Series 3000 combines high joint speeds with simplified controls and an attractive cost-to-benefit ratio. The TruBend Series 3000 has a multi-touch-control and the space-saving design as the predominant features. But the design is convincing not only in visual terms.

Walter AG expands its Tiger·tec Silver® range with three efficient, positive, steel cutting geometries
Walter AG has expanded its Tiger·tec Silver® range with three efficient, positive, steel cutting geometries – an often underestimated insert type, which shows its full potential with low cutting pressures and on small diameters. The three new ISO P geometries with a positive basic shape are called FP4, MP4 and RP4. The indexable inserts for steel machining are available in the proven WPP10S, WPP20S and WPP30S Tiger·tec Silver® cutting grades.

DMG Mori CTX 450 ecoline and 650 ecoline
The DMG Mori CTX 450 ecoline and 650 ecoline are the first jointly developed turning machines from DMG and Mori Seiki and come with advanced components. The large turning and spindle passages, along with the rigid and compact design, demonstrates how much emphasis is put on ergonomics. Emphasis is placed on top technology with proven components at the best price.

Hypertherm expands torch line-up with new Hyamp torches including new 1.2 meter long torch
Hypertherm, a manufacturer of plasma, laser and waterjet cutting systems is expanding its industry leading line-up of Powermax air plasma torches with the introduction of Duramax Hyamp torches. The new offerings include “long” torches for extended reach cutting and a number of robotic torches.

SigmaTUBE® tube and pipe cutting
SigmaTube is a tube cutting solution for 4-axis profile cutting machines that runs completely inside the native SolidWorks design environment. It is designed as an add-on to SolidWorks which provides users with a simple yet powerful wizard based interface for generating toolpaths for their tube family of products.

Kasto Unitower C storage tower for sheet metal
A Kasto Unitower C storage tower for sheet metal is a space-saving tower that stores 3 metre by 1.5 metre sheets, plates, flat products and other materials such as bar, tube, boxes and semi-finished goods in a compact footprint. It offers many advantages compared to conventional storage on shelves, cantilever arms or on the floor.

Feeler reveals four new machines at MACH 2014
All have new styling and fresh branding, which brings a more European look and feel to a Taiwanese machine. On show for the first time was the Feeler U600-5AX 5-axis machining centre. The U600-5AX is a travelling-column, trunnion-style machine aimed at the general machining, mould and die, and low volume manufacturing sectors.

Saint-Gobain Abrasives’ latest generation of medium diameter cut-off wheels
Saint-Gobain Abrasives has introduced the latest generation of medium diameter cut-off wheels for foundry environments, under the Norton brand. Developed with the new Foundry X bond technology, the cut-off wheels are engineered to increase cut rate and wheel life in all foundry cut-off applications.

Hurco machining center extends Y-Axis travel
Designed to meet the demands of moldmaking applications, Hurco’s VMX6030i vertical machining center provides more Y-axis travel in a footprint smaller than the company’s VMX64. X, Y and Z-axis travels measure 1525 x 760 x 610 mm, respectively, and the machine also features a 12,000-rpm spindle and 40-tool swing-arm-type automatic toolchanger.
March 2014

Doosan DNM 200 5AX 5-axis multi-axis milling machine
The new, compact DNM 200 5AX, first exhibited by Doosan at EMO in September 2013 is the third Doosan 5-axis model launched in the last three years. The DNM 200 5AX is a flexible and functional 5-axis machine designed for full simultaneous 5-axis or 4 + 1 machining and its versatility means it…

FeatureCAM supports right-angle heads and multiple roughing tools
Delcam has released the 2014 R2 version of its FeatureCAM feature-based CAM, which provides support for milling and drilling with right-angle heads, and one-stop programming of multiple roughing operations.

EPN-F solid endmills for machining CFRP and honeycomb parts
The increased popularity of composites in aerospace applications creates new challenges for shops that are used to cutting metal. One of these substances, Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Plastic (CFRP), can be especially difficult to machine.

TC 20 alpha drilling and tapping centre – Feeler
With the launch of Feeler’s advanced TC 20 alpha drilling and tapping centre, Craft Machine Tools can offer a machine that competes directly with market-leading brands on performance, but at around half the price.

New Kitagawa CK160 rotary table
At just 99mm deep, the body of the new Kitagawa CK160 rotary table has a smaller footprint than any other model on the market, according to Kitagawa. The ultra-compact fourth axis is suited to mounting on the table of a BT30 taper machining centre and provides manufacturers with a larger machining envelope on any size of machine.

Wele MG and MG-U (universal) high capacity, moving gantry multi-purpose machining centres
The range of Wele MG and MG-U (universal) high capacity, moving gantry multi-purpose machining centres have a working volume up to 20,000 mm in X, 5,000 mm in Y and a Z-axis of 1,400 mm. Tables are up to 16,000 mm by 4,800 mm and are well able to accept loads up to 2,500kg/m² of area.

Sandvik CoroCut QD – Secure and efficient parting off with plug and play coolant
CoroCut QD, a reliable system from Sandvik Coromant for deep grooves and parting off with long overhangs, expands the offer of inserts and durable tools with over and under coolant. The system is supported with plug and play adaptors for easy handling and efficient coolant supply.

Reducing heat input the smart way
Every tried and tested welding and soldering method offers advantages in its specific field of application. For microMIG, this is especially the case with sheet thicknesses between 0.5 and 1.5 mm: well controllable reduced heat input, good gap bridging, minimum distortion and virtually spatter-free results.

5-axis, vertical-spindle machining centre MU-6300V introduced by Okuma
The Japanese machine is designed to accept large workpieces up to 830mm diameter, 550 mm in height and weighing 600kg. It is ideal for multi-sided machining of complex parts in one hit. Rapid traverse at 50m/minute in the orthogonal axes minimises non-cutting times and promotes high productivity.

Safan electronic press brakes
Advances in electric brake technology, featuring belt and pulley systems in place of hydraulics, have expanded machine capacities, boosted accuracy by eliminating crowning, and doubled cycle speed. New, faster technologies like the fibre laser are doubling the number of parts that can be cut per hour.

Heidenhain TNC developments boost machining rates and accuracy
Heidenhain’s Dynamic Efficiency and Dynamic Precision are said to offer innovative control system functionality for faster, more stable and more predictable machining. Around 20-25% improvement in heavy machining metal removal rates and higher levels of surface finish and accuracy are also achievable, says Heidenhain.

TaeguTec’s new deep hole drill
TaeguTec recently expanded on its highly successful head changeable DrillRush line with a 12xD drill that produces deep holes accurately, repeatedly and economically. The DrillRush 12xD drill range for deeper hole drilling and the body’s polished flutes offers smooth chip evacuation without damaging the surface finish.

CNC operator panel made for advanced machine tool applications
The Sinumerik black line panels OP 015 black and OP 019 black from the Siemens Drive Technologies Division are a new generation of operator panels for the Sinumerik 840D sl CNC system and offer new options for machine operation.

Norton Saint-Gobain Abrasives bring their latest abrasive technology products to South Africa
Norton Abrasives has developed the Norton Vitrium3 bonded abrasives products, engineered for maximum performance and cost savings in precision grinding. Having manufactured in South Africa for decades and with the world becoming easier to trade across it’s continents, it was time to introduce the many technical advancements of abrasive products to South Africa

Hurco to launch nine new machines
MACH 2014 (Birmingham NEC, 7-11 April) is the first national machine tool exhibition in the UK since Hurco redesigned its entire range of machining centres and lathes. As a result, every model on Stand 5628, Hall 5 will be new.

Walter Xtra▪tec® Insert Drill, now with Walter Capto™ clamping
The main factors for boosting productivity in machining tend to concern the tool itself, but tool handling is also important. Walter AG takes on board both of these approaches with its new Xtra▪tec® insert drills with Walter Capto™ clamping. Drills with indexable inserts are talented all-rounders and can be used for cutting a variety of materials ranging from steel and cast iron through to stainless and difficult-to-cut materials.

Toolquip & Allied launch NuAir Rhino air compressor
Toolquip & Allied has launched a large 250kW air compressor into the South African marketplace. The new air compressor, The Rhino, will be used predominately in the mining industry. With the recent formation of the Compressor Division, Toolquip & Allied wanted a good quality reciprocating compressor to suit their industrial based clients.

Studer S11 production cylindrical grinding machine for micro components
The Studer S11 cylindrical grinding machine is the youngest S11 and the smallest machine in the company’s portfolio and is tailor-made for workpieces up to 200 mm in length. Anyone who still uses a Studer S36 and produces parts up to a maximum length of 200 mm can now use two Studer S11s on the same floor space as that required for an S36, the company says.
January 2014

Hypertherm introduces the new Powermax125
Hypertherm, a manufacturer of advanced cutting systems, has announced the launch of the Powermax125, a new cutting and gouging system delivering the most power of any portable air plasma available on the market.

Iscar expands Helido line
Iscar is further expanding the Helido line by introducing the OXMT 0507R08-FF insert, which was designed to add the Feedmill’s extremely high feed ability to the popular Helido 845 and 890 milling lines and the moderate feed advantage to the Helido 865 line.
New Trumpf BrightLine fiber function for solid-state laser cutting
The new BrightLine fiber function makes the TruLaser 5030 fiber with its 5-kilowatt solid-state laser an all-purpose machine for 2D laser processing. A swift change from maximum productivity and quality in cutting thin sheets to the quality cutting of thick sheets – the TruLaser 5030 fiber achieves this flexibility with the new BrightLine fiber function.

Exchangeable tip drill range extended – Sandvik
Sandvik Coromant has extended its innovative CoroDrill® 870 range of exchangeable tip drills to include new pilot-hole geometry. In addition, a new Tailor Made offer is introduced for producing chamfered holes in a single operation.

SKS Welding launches Frontpull 7 welding torch
In automated welding production, highest quality heavily depends on the perfect mastery and consideration of all influencing factors. One of the key factors is the evenly precise feeding of the wire – which is especially true for soft welding wires.

Control your robot
Continued automation of processes within the manufacturing industry in southern Africa is fuelling demand for world-class robotics that will enable local companies to compete on a global stage.

Walter AG X·pert taps with variants for ISO K and ISO N materials
The distinguishing feature of the X·pert tap family is the ease of association with a range of applications. This is achieved by a clearly visible inscription with the ISO material group and the X-pert name.

MX – exchangeable head end mills – a world first* in tooling – carbide head and carbide holder
The iMX series is a revolutionary end mill system that combines the advantages of both solid carbide and indexable end mills. Huge performance advantages and savings can be gained especially when long overhang applications are required.

New A-axis: Studer is revolutionising thread grinding
Special grinding machines have previously been the first choice for technically complex external and internal threads with large pitches. This will now change with the introduction of an A-axis on the Studer S41 and S22 cylindrical grinding machines.

MicroStep has developed a system that pushes the boundaries of bevel cutting towards greater effectiveness and reliability
The auto-calibration system of tool geometry – ACTG – brings improved accuracy for a long-term continuous performance of bevel tool stations.

Small-footprint, live tooling ST-10Y turning center from Haas
The ability to turn and mill complex parts and perform multiple operations on one machine increases throughput, reduces handling, and improves accuracy.

TaeguTec’s carbide T-FlexTec is no simple long shot
Long-reach machining has always brought about some difficult to overcome challenges but there are tools that offer excellent precision even in long overhang conditions.
November 2013

SolidWorks 2014 released
Dassault Systems has introduced SolidWorks 2014, which delivers productivity and usability gains, the company says. Added mobility support for Android and iOS devices allows users to connect new 3D designs for mobile users.

Vardex Mega Line presents heavy-duty solutions for extra large pitches
Vargus Ltd. has launched its Mega Line from Vardex, a new range of solutions for heavy-duty applications with extra large pitches.

Steel turning – shorter cutting times with higher process security
Sandvik’s Grade GC4325 brings a new generation coated cemented-carbide grade for steel turning. There is a considerable loss in productivity in steel turning due to machine shops holding back on cutting speed with an emphasis on establishing a safe, predictable tool-life.

New Okuma App provides customised, scheduled maintenance reminders for CNC machines
CNC machine tool builder Okuma now offers a new app available on THINC® -OSP -CNC controls that allows users to receive scheduled maintenance and inspection reminders and avoid downtime.

Parting made easy – Walter
New Blaxx™ F5055 mill optimises parting and slitting. Together with the Walter Cut SX grooving system, Walter AG has launched a new Blaxx™ designed parting and slitting mill, the F5055.

Introducing the Haas UMC-750 universal machining centre
Haas Automation introduces the Haas UMC-750 Universal Machining Centre, for 3+2 and simultaneous 5-axis machining.

Tools, inserts improve efficiency – Iscar
Iscar emphasized the theme of ‘Machining Intelligently’ on their stand at the EMO 2013 exhibition where they displayed their latest leading-edge tools. According to Iscar these tools help its customers adapt to high speed, high feed machining, minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) and other modern machining strategies.

ByAutonom now with rotary axis
The Bystronic laser cutting machine ByAutonom is now available with a rotary axis. The rotary axis and the corresponding tailstock are integrated in the machine frame making it extremely user-friendly and ensuring short setup times when switching from sheet to tube processing.

Easy selection breaker system – Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi has simplified the way in which its range of chip breakers are named and New MC5000 series inserts are available.

Feeler launches U600-5AX and FVT-1000
Feeler’s U600-5AX 5-axis vertical machining centre is aimed at general machining, mould and die and low volume manufacturing and the small footprint FVT-1000 vertical lathe, which is easily integrated into a production line.

“EcoTurn” – Tungaloy’s new series for cost reduction in general turning
The new EcoTurn series incorporates the same chipbreaker designs as Tunagloy’s industry leading turning lines.

Heidenhain’s new user-friendly straight cut control for milling, drilling and boring machines
The TNC 128 is a compact straight cut control in the now familiar stainless-steel design along with an integrated 12.1-inch TFT colour flat-panel display.

Tapping into the market with TaeguTec T-Tap
TaeguTec unveiled its new high-speed steel line of taps that provides universal metal cutting solutions on a variety of materials.
Dynamic workpiece handling with Sinumerik Integrate Run MyRobot
Integrated operation, programming, and diagnostics via the Sinumerik Operate user interface.

Starrett Galileo vision systems
With the combination of precision mechanics, powerful and intuitive software and support, Starrett Galileo Vision Systems take camera-based measuring systems to the next level.

GOM introduces ATOS Triple Scan 12M – high resolution 3D scanning
The proven and established ATOS Triple Scan series has now been extended with the ATOS Triple Scan 12M.