Takeoff

5-axis Touch-Trigger Probe Head
Renishaw's PH20 probe head increases touch-trigger CMM inspection throughput up to three times by using fast, infinite, rotary positioning, together with unique head touch capability for high-speed point capture with minimal CMM movement. Designed for use with the industry-standard TP20 touch-trigger probe, the PH20 head brings 5-axis inspection capability to smaller CMMs for the first time by optimizing the working volume of the measurement platform. The PH20 is available for new CMMs, as well as retrofit machines using shank or quill mounting. It can use most existing inspection programs, for indexing heads without modifications, and requires no compressed air.

The PH20 probe head offers additional time savings with synchronized motion of the head and CMM between measurements. Its rapid inferred calibration technique determines head orientation and probe position in a single operation, allowing subsequent measurements at any head angle.

PH20 incorporates the TP20 touch-trigger probe, affording access to a range of proven probe modules and a wide selection of trigger forces, directional sensing options, and extensions to meet application requirements. Current users of TP20 systems can upgrade to the PH20 and utilize all existing modules, with the exception of the extended-force module.

The PH20 system uses a Renishaw UCC controller that provides connection to existing metrology and application software through the established I++ protocol. As a retrofit package, the PH20 comes with the controller and Renishaw's Modus metrology software for a fully integrated solution.

Renishaw Inc.
Hoffman Estates, IL
renishaw.com

CNC Programming
The release of CAMWorks 2010 focuses on enhancing robust machining capabilities in turning and multi-axis milling, while providing numerous improvements to enable users to program parts faster and easier.

In turning, the ability to define variable allowances along the feature provides more control while, at the same time, reduces the time and complexity of programming. For turning and mill/turn machining involving irregular casting stock shapes, an STL file can now be used to represent the stock. While creating a more realistic simulation, this simplifies the stock definition and results in a more efficient and predictable toolpath. CAMWorks 2010 includes many improvements to multi-axis machining, enabling toolpath generation on increasingly complex part models. Further, new controls have been added to simplify processing of impellers and blisks, while safely entering and retracting the part has become more flexible and easier than before.

Visualization enhancements have been made to feature, tooling, and stock display.

Geometric
Scottsdale, AZ
geometricglobal.com

Turning Products
The Beyond line of high-performance turning products from Kennametal now include two new geometries in round inserts for improved productivity in turning steel, stainless steels, cast irons, and high-temperature alloys.

Engineered to deliver improved chip control at lower cutting forces, these new geometries mean excellent size control, surface finishes, spikes on capital equipment, and longer tool life.

The R.U. geometry features a proprietary wavy design with optimal size and spacing of the chip breaking element. The U.P. geometry is designed for medium machining and finishing.

Kennametal Inc.
Latrobe, PA
kennametal.com