Posted on Tue, Feb 21, 2012
Dayton, Ohio – Gosiger, Inc., a leading machine tool distributor and factory automation provider, announces that it can now supply the Hardinge VMC GX 1000 vertical machining center (VMC) from Hardinge equipped with the Okuma THINC control system. The result is a value-priced VMC with enhanced capabilities and, for Okuma CNC users, the additional convenience of a common control system.
Adding THINC increases the VMC GX 1000 maximum feed speed to 1417 ipm (36 m/min) from 392 ipm (10 m/min) and makes acceleration and deceleration faster and more precise. Additionally, THINC enables the VMC to increase throughput by reducing processing time from control to tool to a mere 3-5 milliseconds, increases power to allow machining of harder alloys to 60 Rockwell, simplifies part programming with on-board capabilities, and increases program storage to 2 GB.
Adding THINC includes installing high torque brushless servomotors and amplifiers to enable maximum responsiveness with dynamic braking. The overload-protected motors are fully enclosed to operate efficiently even in severe environments and never require brush replacement, making them virtually maintenance-free.
The retrofit also includes Okuma absolute position encoders that generate 1,296,000 pulses per single ball screw revolution with 10 millionths resolution. These encoders eliminate re-zeroing and restarting, and because they are mounted directly on the motor, they also eliminate coupling backlash.
A unique Hi-G control function calculates motor speed and torque for both acceleration and deceleration to assure precise positioning, and reduces positioning time by allowing the fastest movement within the part program, rather than setting a fixed servo parameter. Similarly, the Hi-Cut function permits the highest possible feed rates throughout a part program while adjusting feed rates as needed to assure shape conformance.
To learn about these and other enhancements made possible by the addition of the THINC system to the Hardinge VMC GX 1000 read the white paper or contact your local Gosiger representative.
Posted on Thu, Feb 16, 2012
Cincinnati manufacturer Nilpeter makes five models of flexographic presses that include a number of high-precision machined parts. One such family of parts is a series of impression cylinders that are critical components of each press. A typical Nilpeter flexographic press has eight impression rollers. Each roller must be precisely machined to final diameter tolerances of +/- 0.00005” in order to evenly apply images to the label material. Each roller in this family of parts has slightly different diameter dimensions, ranging from 2.2621” through 2.2618” Steve’s challenge was to reduce production time for these and other press components.
The manufacturing process for each roller included a series of seven steps:
- The 1215 stainless steel bar stock was cut to length
- The stock was then blanked
- The blank was faced on a manual lathe
- The part was sent out for gun drilling
- Upon return to Nilpeter, the part was turned on a CNC lathe
- Following turning, the part was sent out for pre-grinding and chroming
- The part returned to Nilpeter for finish grinding
By integrating an Okuma LT 300-MY, 7-axis, twin spindle CNC turning machine with an automatic magazine load bar feeder, a vacuum unloader and an Ethernet communications system, Nilpeter reduced machining time per roller from 4.5 man hours to less than 30 minutes. Watch the complete story in a 5-minute video. Or contact your local Gosiger office.
Posted on Fri, Feb 10, 2012
Quickly and efficiently machining unusually long or large parts within tight tolerances can be challenging. To solve this problem Okuma developed a line of double column machining centers that use an innovative, bridge-built architecture to provide a solid and rigid foundation for precise machining.
This two-column design not only provides stability for vertical machining, it also allows for a larger work area to complete work on extremely large and long parts. Plus, all models provide the power necessary for fast, precise machining, and include the Okuma THINC-OSP control for maximum productivity.
With seven models available and a wide variety of options for specialized applications, Gosiger technical advisors can help you determine which Okuma double column machining center provides the work envelope and length of travel that meets your unique requirements.
To learn more, contact your Gosiger productivity specialist.
Posted on Mon, Feb 06, 2012
Okuma horizontal machining centers include a number of unique capabilities including the Thermo-Friendly Concept to control thermal deformation, a broad range of spindles and horsepower to match your requirements, THINC intelligent controls, and other productivity-enhancing features.
However, even the most advanced horizontal machining centers can’t operate at peak efficiency while sitting idle. That’s why Okuma developed its Automated Modular Pallet System (AMPS). This Flexible Manufacturing System (FMS) enhances productivity by managing production schedules and loading Okuma horizontal machining centers for maximum throughput.
AMPS can service a single machine or up to 10 machines and 4 workstations with as many as 300 pallet locations. Best of all, one operator can control the entire system. All of which translates into greater efficiency.
With the right AMPS installation you’ll benefit from:
- Less manpower required per spindle
- Less dependent on highly skilled people
- High, consistent quality level
- Viable batch size can be as low as one
- Zero setup time
- Fixtures are ready for repeatable jobs
- Jobs are buffered and ready to go to the machine regardless of operator availability
- FMS control system will prioritize and optimize the correct pallet order
- Increased spindle utilization through more efficient use of the machine tool
- Lower operating costs
- Unmanned production during off shift and weekends
- More effective use of floor space
Gosiger FMS specialists can analyze your specific process and recommend an AMPS solution that will boost your productivity and profitability.
Posted on Wed, Feb 01, 2012
Dealing with temperature variations to maintain acceptable tolerances of machined parts can rob your operation of productivity and profitability. That’s why Okuma developed its Thermo-Friendly Concept to both reduce heat generated in the machining process and to compensate for any remaining heat.
The first step is to design machines to better manage deformation with what Okuma terms “thermally symmetrical structures.” This involves viewing the various machine components as individual building blocks, and designing covers and peripherals to eliminate hot spots.
Next, Okuma builds into its control system a Thermal Active Stabilizer (TAS) with two components: Spindle (S) and Construction (C). TAS-S monitors spindle temperature, speed and other conditions to automatically adjust and control spindle deformation. TAS-C uses temperature readings from strategically placed sensors and feed axis position data, to estimate machine structure deformation from ambient temperature changes. As a result, the system accurately controls the actual cutting point.
Okuma's Thermo-Friendly machines eliminate the time and money you spend warming up the machine. Plus, you don't have to spend as much time measuring and making manual adjustments to compensate for temperature changes. Thus it helps improve quality, save time and reduces the chance of operator error.
The Thermo-Friendly Concept is available on a wide range of Okuma CNC lathes, CNC milling machines, CNC grinders, 5-axis machining centers and CNC double columns. To learn how Okuma’s Thermo-Friendly machines can help your operation become more productive and profitable, contact Gosiger today.
Posted on Tue, Jan 10, 2012
“Work smarter, not just harder” has been a manufacturing mantra for a number of years. Usually this directive is aimed at production managers and machine operators. However the concept recently took on a new meaning when Gosiger, along with fellow Okuma dealers Hartwig and Morris, convinced Okuma to apply the company’s vaunted THINC system to the Hardinge-built Bridgeport VMC GX 1000.
The idea is to make this rugged, affordable, Vertical Machining Center (VMC) with optional rotary 4th axis even more productive and versatile, while providing a common control system for Okuma machine users who need a value-priced VMC. It’s an idea that has taken off as customers recognize the uncommon value this marriage of technologies represents:
-
Maximum feed speed increases to 1417 ipm (36 m/ min) from 392 ipm (10 m/min) along with faster and more precise acceleration and deceleration.
-
Greater machining accuracy enables efficient production of more complex parts.
-
Increased power allows machining of harder alloys to 60 Rockwell.
-
Digital THINC system reduces processing time from control to tool from up to15 milliseconds to a mere 3-5 milliseconds for faster throughput.
-
Simplifies part programming with on-board capability, and increases program storage to 2 GB.
-
Priced at less than $100,000, the VMC GX 1000 OSP represents outstanding value.
Adding the THINC control system to this VMC includes installing high torque brushless servomotors and amplifiers to enable maximum responsiveness with dynamic braking. These overload-protected motors are fully enclosed to operate efficiently even in severe environments and never require brush replacement, so they are virtually maintenance-free.
The retrofit also includes Okuma absolute position encoders that generate 1,296,000 pulses per single ball screw revolution with 10 millionths resolution. These encoders eliminate re-zeroing and restarting, and because they are mounted directly on the motor, they also eliminate coupling backlash.
A unique Hi-G control function calculates motor speed and torque for both acceleration and deceleration to assure precise positioning, and reduces positioning time by allowing the fastest movement within the part program, rather than setting a fixed servo parameter. Similarly, the Hi-Cut function permits the highest possible feed rates throughout a part program while adjusting feed rates as needed to assure shape conformance.
The THINC control system provides a number of other performance enhancements including an on-board Pocket Manual for quick reference, an I-Map program assist function that enables operators to create or edit programs on the fly, and Mac Man to allow machine usage monitoring and analysis for better asset utilization.
Below is a comparison of the key differences between the standard Hardinge/Bridgeport control and the THINC System.
|
THINC OSP-200M CONTROL
-
15” Color LCD Display
-
Touch Screen
-
PC Based Control
-
(Windows XP)
-
USB Interface
-
2 GB Program Storage Capacity
-
2 MB Memory Buffer Capacity
-
Full Keyboard
-
3 to 5 Mb/sec Communication
-
API Allows Custom User Programs
-
Real-time 3D Display
-
USB Data Gauging
-
20 Coordinate Offsets
-
100 Tool Offsets
|
STANDARD GX-1000 CONTROL
- 40 Block Look Ahead
- 10.4” Color LCD Display
- Non-touch Screen
- PLC
- PMCIA Interface
- DNC 1 GB Memory Card
- 264 kb Memory Capacity
- Compressed Keyboard
- 8 to 15 Mb/sec (Option Required)
|
The addition of the THINC control system to the VMC GX 1000 OSP means you can have an extremely cost-effective vertical machining center that works both harder and faster to improve your productivity and profitability.
For more information, including detailed specifications and application assistance, please contact your local Gosiger office.
Posted on Tue, Jan 03, 2012
Locating the right CNC vertical machining center for your shop’s production needs can take time. Why go it alone? Partner with Gosiger.
We’ve got just the CNC vertical machining centers you need to produce precision parts easily and economically. They’re among the industry’s most dependable and innovative machines, too –Okuma and Bridgeport by Hardinge.
Okuma vertical machining centers are known for their exceptional accuracy, thanks to their solid bridge casings. They're also preferred for their higher spindle speeds, increased thermal stability, superior tolerance control, and their revolutionary single processor Intelligent Numeric Control (THINC).
Bridgeport vertical machining center by Hardinge also have their advocates. Machinists particularly like the Bridgeport vertical pallet changer options and 5-axis machining control.
The fact is, we offer a wide variety of CNC solutions, because there are a wide variety of needs.Contact Gosiger today. We’ll have you sit down with our experts, and together we’ll determine the ideal CNC machine and equipment solution to help you achieve your production goals.
Posted on Thu, Dec 29, 2011
Gosiger’s commitment to providing high-quality CNC machines is without parallel. For example, our selection of Swiss-style lathes features the innovative manufacturer Nomura. As North America’s exclusive distributor of these Swiss-style lathes you know you are getting top notch CNC machinery with our superb product support.
Like every other CNC manufacturer we carry, Nomura Swiss-style lathes exceed our stringent standards of performance and value. For precise part fabrication, these Swiss screw machines are ideal for markets requiring tight tolerances on minute parts. Get the repeatability you need and your clients demand with a Gosiger CNC machinery solution.
When you partner with Gosiger, you get a level of support beyond simply purchasing a CNC machining product. You get a manufacturing partner that provides the upgrades, maintenance, and on-going support that every manufacturing shop should have regardless of their size. Forge a partnership with us and get high-quality Swiss-style lathe solutions and excellent service support.
Call or contact Gosiger today to learn more.
Posted on Tue, Dec 27, 2011
Factory automation transforms your individual CNC machining centers, grinders, and lathes into a single, well-coordinated manufacturing tool, that lets you achieve productivity and cost-per-part efficiencies you never imagined. Gosiger Automation solutions specifically help you optimize productivity, reduce human error, and increase efficiency plant-wide.
Well-thought-out design and strategic placement of CNC cell components allow for improved floor space use, minimized travel between stations, and reduced labor needs. You can do more with less. This leads to the second benefit: reduced human error.
Every time a process needs human intervention, potential error is introduced. Introducing automated movement between stations with robotic manipulation is one way to reduce the human factor. More robust, multi axis CNC machines can perform complex and multiple cuts in a fewer number of setups, which also helps reduce human error.
All this provides our clients with greater production-line efficiency. This can allow for just-in-time (JIT) schedule production which reduces inventory and its related costs. This is yet another benefit of an automated solution from Gosiger.
Contact Gosiger, and experience for yourself what our factory automation solutions have done for so many of our clients.
Posted on Thu, Dec 22, 2011
No matter the size of your manufacturing shop, enhanced precision and improved productivity is the name of the game. This is especially true concerning CNC surface grinders. CNC surface grinders need to provide high-accuracy combined with reduced manual involvement. This results in a streamlined manufacturing process with improved repeatability, and shorter change over time.
Gosiger understands surface grinders are the workhorse for toolmakers and CNC machinists alike. We seek out and provide access to the most innovative CNC machinery on the market today. For example, we offer Amada Wasino surface grinders that deliver faster grinding and feature an easy-to-use interface.
CNC technology is constantly improving, and Gosiger has aligned with the proven leaders in CNC machinery. Get the unparalleled performance and the latest ground-breaking features when you get a Gosiger CNC solution. We even provide integrated cell solutions, incorporating surface grinders, to push your productivity to the next level. Are you ready?
Contact Gosiger, your trusted source for high-quality CNC machine solutions.