In this brief video Gosiger Factory Automation shows how it used 3-D solids modeling to create a plan view that enabled its engineers to precisely determine the positioning and required movement of a FANUC robot used to load and unload multiple Okuma CNC machines. On-site video then shows the finished production line so the viewer sees how the FANUC robot moves along an overhead rail to flawlessly access each of the machine tool chucks.
When it comes to machining multi-sided parts, a Horizontal Machining Center can save you considerable time and money versus a Vertical Machining Center. Here’s how:
Okuma developed the GENOS series of CNC lathes to be multitasking machines that are affordable and easy to use and maintain. Although they are considered entry-level machines, these CNC lathes provide stability, rigidity and accuracy for a multitude of applications. The GENOS series includes a number of standard timesaving features, and a wide range of specification variations so users can handle everything from simple jobs to highly complex parts.
Now that manufacturing is rebounding from the economic difficulties of the past few years, manufacturing managers should take a hard look at your best employees. Presumably you eliminated any marginal people during the downturn, and your remaining people may have endured pay cuts, furloughs or reduced benefits.
The traditional approach to die/mold machining typically involves a number of steps that require multiple CNC machines and 5 to 7 part handlings. This labor-intensive process builds substantial cost into each job. The good news is that you can reduce these costs by using a high speed CNC machining center that can often handle the entire operation in one place.
It’s a constant challenge to make high-quality parts while reducing cycle time, material waste and operator involvement. That’s why Okuma engineers design machines that use the latest technologies to help manufacturers reduce the time an operator spends adjusting for temperature-related issues, avoiding costly collisions and determining optimum cutting conditions.
These built-in functions on many Okuma CNC lathes, turning centers, multitasking machines and machining centers are part of the company’s Intelligent Technology initiative to make machining faster, easier and more profitable.
There are now three models in the Okuma MB-H Series of Horizontal Machining Centers, and all three provide manufacturers the opportunity to reduce non-cutting time, maintain tight tolerances and maximize floor space. All of which adds up to enhanced productivity.
The Golden Rule, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you,” is certainly an admirable way to go through life. However it may not be the best way to motivate your employees. The fact is, what makes us uniquely “us” is encoded in our DNA, and the way you like being treated may be very different for those who work for you.
McConnelsburg PA-based Fulton Precision Industries, Inc. makes transmission shafts for Caterpillar and rock drill bits for Atlas Copco. The 94 separate Caterpillar parts range in diameter from 2” to 5.5” and in length from 27” to 42”, with individual shafts weighing up to 235 pounds. Lot sizes are relatively small, and each shaft has complex geometry that must be machined to tolerances of +/- .0007 of an inch.
According to Fulton’s President, Walt Barmont: “When we considered adding two new L 470 Okuma CNC lathes to our shop, Gosiger Factory Automation proposed automating our process by adding a Fanuc 165F robot to load and unload parts. Gosiger Factory Automation worked with us to make sure the system would not only increase productivity, but would deliver the accuracy and repeatability we require.”
Energy Dynamics, Inc. (EDI) is a nearly 30-year-old Illinois precision CNC machine shop that specializes in making hydraulic components and assemblies for a variety of major OEMs. The cylinders, pistons, electro control shafts and other items EDI produces find their way into heavy equipment, assembly machinery, aerospace applications and more.