Product News

PI (Physik Instrumente) has released a new 6-axis servo motor controller – the C-884.6DC. Most modern precision motion systems are driven by servo motors, because they provide high torque, fast acceleration, smooth motion with a wide dynamic speed range and fast start/stop performance.

Demand for operational efficiencies such as greater visualization into a factory’s automation solutions portfolio has prompted Mitsubishi Electric Automation Inc. to introduce its latest human machine interface (HMI). The GT25 Wide HMI is an interface that monitors and controls machine components with a graphical touchscreen that connects to equipment such as PLCs, VFDs and servos.

New software from NUM enables CNC machine tool builders and retrofitters to provide their customers with easy-to-use workpiece programming and machine control facilities for precision grinding applications. Forming the latest application-specific addition to NUM’s Flexium CAM suite of CNC software, the new NUMgrind package simplifies machine tool programming for an extensive range of tasks, including external and internal cylindrical grinding, surface grinding, wheel shaping and dressing.

HEIDENHAIN offers its Connected Machining system of production in which all work steps are networked - from the design to the deliverable component – via the company’s TNC control. It can access all order-related information in a company network, enabling efficient exchange of data.

Marposs offers the Genior Modular from Artis Systems, a fully automatic process monitoring and control solution for machine tools. Genior Modular can monitor up to 10 simultaneous machining processes, including tool wear, tool breakage and missing tools; providing tool and machine protection; and for adaptive control of machining processes. The system increases productivity and reduces operating costs by safeguarding the machining processes, shortening cycle times and optimizing tool life, as well as significantly reducing the need for operator intervention.

NUM has released a new software facility for its latest-generation Flexium+ CNC platform that places an advanced tool management system at the disposal of manufacturers operating multiple CNC machine tools. It is especially suitable for complex high-end milling applications, as well as HSM applications in the mold and die market.

TNC contouring controls from HEIDENHAIN are popular with users thanks to their workshop-oriented operational design and conversational programming. And now, HEIDENHAIN’s compact TNC 620 control combines its advantages of HEIDENHAIN contouring controls with the latest in touchscreen technology.

Heidenhain offers the PNC 610 control system for auxiliary axes for modular expansion of the TNC hardware. The independently working PNC 610 enables machine tool builders to realize modular and scalable automation solutions for handling workpieces and tools in order to respond to the end users’ respective requirements in an optimal manner.

FANUC America has developed a new machining simulator that encompasses the complete manufacturing process from part design and engineering to CNC programming to virtual production simulation. The FANUC Machining Simulator features Autodesk Fusion 360 CAD/CAM/CAE software and a custom machining simulation program designed by ModuleWorks.

Siemens announces the launch of its Sinamics V20 Smart Access web server module, designed to mount directly onto the drive, transforming a mobile device or laptop into a virtual operator panel for drive control. By providing a wi-fi hot spot, the wireless connection on this module facilitates setup, programming, commissioning, production monitoring and maintenance on a variety of machines and production equipment.

The expanded contour machining cycle for Sinumerik CNCs now facilitates 4-axis turning on lathes. Two turning tools, opposite one another, machine the workpiece simultaneously enabling the machining time to be significantly reduced.

HEIDENHAIN’s popular TNC 640 mill-turn control is now available with an exciting new option, a 3D Probing cycle, called Cycle 444. Already equipped with both manual and automatic probing cycles for datum setting, workpiece alignment and inspection, the TNC 640 offers this additional 3D probing cycle to meet manufacturers’ increased requirements for automation and advanced probing routines that inspect free form surfaces where measurement positions are often difficult to capture.

The Nmark GCL controls Aerotech’s AGV series scanners, reportedly resulting in industry-leading settling times, long-term thermal stability and micron-level tracking accuracy due to advanced features such as full-state feed-forward, 200 kHz servo rates, and look-ahead-based velocity control. The Nmark GCL uses advanced interpolation electronics to provide up to 26-bits of effective resolution.

Siemens announced a new control-only retrofit program for CNC machines. Tailored precisely for milling machines up to four axes plus one spindle or 2- to 3-axis turning machines, users can gain new levels of manufacturing efficiency and productivity.

FANUC America Corp. brought a new look and feel to CNC operations with the introduction of the FANUC iHMI. iHMI, or intelligent Human Machine Interface, provides a simpler, more efficient and intuitive way to interact with the FANUC series 30i/31i/32i-MODEL B CNCs, according to the company.

Haas Automation’s Next Generation Control (NGC) is the latest evolution of a user-friendly CNC. It reportedly features a significantly improved user interface, more consistent and intuitive navigation and vastly improved connectivity.

Makino introduces the fully equipped Professional 6 (Pro6) control designed to move operators fluidly through machine set up, empower them with easily accessible information and protect them with enhanced safety. The Pro6 accelerates productivity for machine shops and tool, die and mold makers with streamlined screen layouts, operator guidance and latest machine functions.

Marposs offers its new BLÚ distributed control network for machine tools. The BLÚ system represents a new approach to the concept of a localized network on a machine tool.

Addressing the need for a fast, precise and affordable CNC for complex machining applications, Mitsubishi Electric Automation Inc. offers the M800 and M80 series CNC and components. The M800 is a high-grade CNC for high-speed, high-accuracy machining and multiaxis, multipart system control and features a fast CNC, while the M80 provides high productivity and easy operability.

FANUC America Corp. has released the new FANUC CNC simulator, bringing the popular CNC to the classroom and providing students with exposure to FANUC CNCs without the need for a full mill or lathe. The FANUC CNC simulator is based on the FANUC series 0i - Model F platform and can be operated in either milling or turning configurations. Students can program the simulator as a 3-axis mill or a 2-axis/1-spindle turning system.