EPPINGER Shaping Attachment

May 01, 2014

The EPPINGER Shaping Attachment, introduced by EXSYS Tool Inc., enables single-step machining of a variety of difficult-to-cut features including grooves, chamfers, Torx screw heads, splines and gear teeth. In addition, permanent grease lubrication of the attachment's bearing surfaces helps reduce wear and tear on the machine tools that employ the device.

The Shaping Attachment is engineered for productive and efficient operation. In use, it drives the cutter into the workpiece in the Z-axis at cutting speeds up to 1,000 strokes per minute. At the end of each stroke an integrated lift-off mechanism returns the cutter to the starting position without drag, protecting the surface finish of the component and the cutting edge of the tool. With a working stroke of 1.3" (32mm) and maximum feed of 0.006" (0.15mm) per stroke, the attachment can produce maximum groove widths of 0.31" to 0.34" (8-10mm).

The Shaping Attachment's capability to machine difficult features in a single setup increases production throughput, while its permanent lubrication, lift-off mechanism, and rigidity minimize machine tool wear and downtime that can result from performing tough gearmaking-type operations.

Related Glossary Terms

  • feed

    feed

    Rate of change of position of the tool as a whole, relative to the workpiece while cutting.

  • shaping

    shaping

    Using a shaper primarily to produce flat surfaces in horizontal, vertical or angular planes. It can also include the machining of curved surfaces, helixes, serrations and special work involving odd and irregular shapes. Often used for prototype or short-run manufacturing to eliminate the need for expensive special tooling or processes.