Second Generation of MAX System

December 22, 2022
Second Generation MAX System Includes Speed Enhancements

James Engineering has launched its new line of deburring and chamfering machines, which can process an unlimited variety of gear types: spur, bevel, spiral bevel, rings & pinions, cluster gears, splines, internal gearing blind bores, threading, and much more. The new line of equipment is much faster than before, with less than 3 seconds between cycles, and changes from one part type to another in as little as 5 seconds. This second-generation series of the MAX System™ delivers a refined and proven line of technology the company has been advancing for more than 35 years. 

Today’s MAX System introduces the latest innovation known as Focused Deburring™. These multi-axis machines feature up to four 1- to 5-axis heads or towers, which can process simultaneously or in sequence within a single working environment. This ability allows the machines to perform multiple operations on many edges and surfaces of a part at the same time. For example, a single MAX System can remove a protruding burr from an 8” spur gear, create a precision .060” chamfer on both sides of the same gear, and wash the part within 30 seconds.

Companies who struggle with setups or want to eliminate them all together should look at the MAX’s. These systems use servos at all adjustment points thereby memorizing the initial setups. Once created, a setup will never have to be reproduced. The initial setup time is the same as a manual system. Now that the setups are saved in the system, changing from one part to another is as fast as selecting the part number and pressing start. The MAX system is for companies that have recurring batch runs where setup time is critical, running a different but recurring part every cycle, and complex operations that may normally require multiple setups or multiple tools.

All James Engineering systems are made with a self-contained philosophy. This means all equipment on the machine is mounted within the machine. This creates a single-pick clean machine for our customers. Initial installation of the machine is simple; hook up the utilities and the machine is ready to run. Moving the system is extremely simple, unhook the utilities and the machine moves in a single pick, nothing is mounted outside of the machine or to the floor.

The James Engineering patented system is an overhead design that is impervious to abrasives of all kinds. The X & Y shafts are 3” hardened chrome, while the Z shaft is 4” for superior stability. All head (tower) servos are mounted outside the work area. The systems are all fully enclosed, making them drip-free. Systems are extremely rigid and have a robust design. Repeatability is +/-.001” and rapid travel rates are up to 1,500 ipm.

The James Engineering tool holders are non-locking for quick and easy changes. Tool holders can be changed out in less than 30 seconds, James offers a family of different types of tool holders to perform different jobs and functions to meet your needs.

You can also quickly replace the tool motor in less than 30 seconds, precision locating surfaces mean that tool position and recipe are never compromised.

Simple Programming - While we ask that you reserve the programming and editing for management, we make it so simple that within 10 minutes we can teach you how to write a program. There is no third-party software or features to download or purchase, the system works to its full potential as soon as you receive it. There is no maintenance or CAD/CAM required. All tool paths, feed rates, and pressures are controlled from a single screen.

All programs are stored within the machine. They can be backed up or imported through a USB or central server easily via ethernet, they can also be shared from machine to machine if you have multiple systems. Due to onboard storage, it is extremely fast to go from one program to another. 

A physical Admin Key is provided for management. This key activates program management features such as editing, creating, deleting, copying, etc. This is an extremely important feature because it means the programs cannot be changed by anyone; only those with the key can change recipes. 

Password security has also been added for additional protection.

Some of the James Engineering systems, such as the SynchroMAX, can be fitted with automation packages. These packages come in many shapes and sizes, such as off-the-shelf add-on systems, powered in and out conveyors, parts metering systems, powered conveyors, pick & place systems, and part blow-off for wet systems.

Related Glossary Terms

  • burr

    burr

    Stringy portions of material formed on workpiece edges during machining. Often sharp. Can be removed with hand files, abrasive wheels or belts, wire wheels, abrasive-fiber brushes, waterjet equipment or other methods.

  • chamfering

    chamfering

    Machining a bevel on a workpiece or tool; improves a tool’s entrance into the cut.

  • feed

    feed

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

  • inches per minute ( ipm)

    inches per minute ( ipm)

    Value that refers to how far the workpiece or cutter advances linearly in 1 minute, defined as: ipm = ipt 5 number of effective teeth 5 rpm. Also known as the table feed or machine feed.

  • threading

    threading

    Process of both external (e.g., thread milling) and internal (e.g., tapping, thread milling) cutting, turning and rolling of threads into particular material. Standardized specifications are available to determine the desired results of the threading process. Numerous thread-series designations are written for specific applications. Threading often is performed on a lathe. Specifications such as thread height are critical in determining the strength of the threads. The material used is taken into consideration in determining the expected results of any particular application for that threaded piece. In external threading, a calculated depth is required as well as a particular angle to the cut. To perform internal threading, the exact diameter to bore the hole is critical before threading. The threads are distinguished from one another by the amount of tolerance and/or allowance that is specified. See turning.