Control Systems

In a collaborative effort to best enable 5-axis machining for users with Heidenhain TNC controls and Mastercam CAD/CAM software, a new collaborate post-processor is now available.Called the Heidenhain TNC 5X Mill post-processor, CNC Software Inc., developers of Mastercam software, introduced it after coordinating development efforts between the two companies. Collaboration also included beta testers and industry resellers in order to best meet the worldwide demand of providing a consistent, high-quality Heidenhain translation post.

Every new Eldorado gundrilling machine now features an updated operator control panel. While still using a PC-based system featuring Beckhoff controls, both the hardware and software have been improved with job shop operators in mind.

The XC2 PWM digital drive is a small form-factor, high-performance, single-axis motor drive designed for motion control applications. It is compatible with the Automation 3200 motion platform utilizing the HyperWire motion bus. The XC2 can control brushless DC, brush DC, voice coil or stepper motors at up to 100 VDC operating voltage and 10 A peak current capability.

Mazak Corp. has enhanced the already exceptionally productive VTC-200C vertical machining center with the addition of the MAZATROL SmoothG CNC and its suite of SMOOTH TECHNOLOGY software solutions. The control complements the VTC-200C’s full traveling-column design, automatic toolchanger and 40-taper spindle, all of which combine to enable fast cycle times and accurate machining for extremely long and heavy workpieces in industries such as construction, agriculture and energy production.

Mitsubishi Electric Automation Inc. announces the CNC Total Care Package service for its CNC systems. The service package is tailored for Mitsubishi Electric’s M8, M7 and M6 control series.

Long thought of by many as today’s easiest-to-operate CNC for vertical knee mills, HEIDENHAIN’s ACU-RITE-brand MILLPWRG2 control is now also available for bed mills with AC motors.

Siemens offers its popular Sinumerik CNC Blackline touch panels with a new feature, the sidescreen enhancement. This development enables users to customize the panel of the CNC, laying out the operator panel in real time, using a drag-and-drop technology.

ShopBot announces the launch of its Subscription CNC program, emphasizing a simple, straightforward service that makes it easy to put a ShopBot CNC tool to work for your business. For one monthly payment, subscribers can put a Handibot Smart Power Tool, ShopBot Desktop, ShopBot Desktop MAX or ShopBot Buddy tool into production and access ShopBot’s world-class team of trainers, web training resources and in-house support.