Makino and Synova inaugurate laser microjet demo center

Tokyo, Japan – Synova, a world pioneer and patent holder of the water jet-guided laser technology, in its strategic cooperation with Makino, will open a new Laser MicroJet (LMJ) demo center located in the building of the Makino Atsugi factory. Representing Synova's largest demo facility up to now, three LMJ systems will be available for demonstrating the technology and showing the capabilities of the machine. These LMJ systems, all based on Synova's patented Laser MicroJet technology, consist of two MCS 300 machines with three axes and one MCS machine with simultaneous five axes function specially designed for 3D-machining needs.

 

An important application area of Synova's Laser MicroJet is precision metal cutting used in various industries, such as consumer goods, electronics, aerospace, watchmaking, automotive, tooling, or medical. Contrary to results achieved by conventional lasers, Synova's LMJ approach offers a less aggressive cutting process without causing heat damage, micro-cracks, and burr formations that can weaken the material's fracture strength. Notably, since the LMJ produces damage-free edges, it eliminates the need for extra processing steps, such as etching, grinding, or cleaning, and therefore can reduce manufacturing costs. In addition, the technology's "wet" approach expels contaminants from the work piece surface, increasing quality and efficiency.

 

On Jan. 1, 2012 Tokyo-based Makino Milling Machine Co. Ltd. and Synova SA entered into an agreement for the manufacture of Laser MicroJet machines based on Makino machine technology. The commercialization of the new LMJ machines has started in Japan with subsequent worldwide distribution through Synova's sales network. In the meantime, two models have been designed and commercialized, the 3-axis MCS 300 and subsequently the 3+2-axis MCS 500, especially adapted to drilling of turbine blades. A third model is in preparation, the MCS 150 with simultaneous five axes for machining of diamond tools.

 

Dr. Bernold Richerzhagen, Synova's president and chief executive officer, commented: "This new demo center located in the main building of Makino's major manufacturing plant in Atsugi will provide Synova with a unique opportunity to improve market visibility and penetration of the LMJ technology in Japan and in Asia. This milestone in Synova's history not only represents an important opportunity for the company, but it's also a testament to Synova's imminent success in the industrial markets."

 

Makino's Laser MicroJet systems can be flexibly incorporated into the production line as either a standalone system or integrated into existing production lines. The LMJ systems built by Makino can be custom configured with automation and handling according to individual needs.

 

Richerzhagen is confident that the new demo center will result in an increased interest for the LMJ machines in Makino's machine platform.

 

SYNOVA JAPAN will exhibit at the upcoming JIMTOF 2014 at the booth E1030.