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High speed, high accuracy VMC

The VESTA 1000 vertical machining center delivers stable, high-speed, precision machining and long-term productivity. The adaptive software suite, together with a maximum spindle speed of 12,000rpm, makes the VESTA 1000 a high-performance machine for fast roughing and precise finishing.

Software monitors environmental and machining variables and adjusts the machining process automatically to minimize cycle times and optimize machining results. Hwacheon Tool Load Detection (HTLD) software detects and diagnoses tool load during machining to reduce tool wear and prevent damage. Hwacheon High-Efficiency Contour Control (HECC) provides precise contour control for better machining efficiency while the Optima cutting feed optimization system controls feed rate, reducing cycle time by as much as 25%.

The spindle is grease-lubricated and jacket-cooled to minimize thermal displacement and to increase spindle life. A rapid feed (X/Y/Z of 1,417ipm/1,417ipm/1,180ipm) permits quick positioning of the tools. A 24- or 30-position tool magazine, carrying tools up to 6" diameter and 12" in length offers tool-to-tool change time of 1.5 seconds.

Hwacheon Machinery America
www.hwacheon.com

PAEK, carbon-fiber based products

Composites for the aerospace industry are now available in the form of polyaryletherketone thermoplastics (PAEK) and carbon fiber-based unidirectional (UD) tape and laminate panels. Offered under the brand Victrex AE250 composites, the material enables production of continuously reinforced components that perform under load. In addition, Victrex AE250 composites have shown weight savings of up to 60% under certain circumstances when compared to aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium, which translates into gains in fuel efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions. The composites also have shown up to 5x higher specific strength compared to metals.

Compared to thermoset solutions, PAEK composites can be processed faster, using out-of-autoclave methods, and are 100% recyclable. They have better damage tolerance than thermosets and offer greater chemical resistance, fatigue performance, and flame/smoke/toxicity properties, while matching the strength and stiffness of thermosets. In comparison to metals, corrosion resistance, processing speed, and thermal insulation are improved, while impact resistance and damage tolerance will be similar.

Victrex
www.victrex.com

Grooving and cut-off system

Beyond Evolution is a single-sided grooving and cut-off system for deeper grooving capability than double-ended systems. Featuring a Triple V design, with top, bottom, and backside, V-shaped seating in the holder pocket creates a pull-in effect for high stability for deep grooving, face grooving, side turning, and profiling in one platform. The single platform turns with 90% of the stability and allows interchangeability regardless of geometry or application. It offers tighter indexing tolerances, longer cutting depths, and plunge and turn geometries.

Kennametal Inc.
www.kennametal.com