In Makino’s state-of-the-art theater at IMTS ’98, visitors were able to view engaging and informative video presentations and demonstrations on high-speed machining and EDM technology. Makino utilized a theater and live demonstrations to showcase some of the newest processes in mold making. Each presentation also provided attendees the opportunity to interact with application experts specializing in each topic.
Topics included HQSF technology, NURBS, cavity and core machining, volumetric accuracy, spindle vibration, EDM automation, and high-performance mold steels. Makino suppliers, including JABRO, Millstar, Robb Jack, Technara and Unigraphics, delivered presentations about cutting tools, rotating holders and shop floor programming.
Attendees who took part in the HQSF presentation learned how this exclusive EDM process can reduce or eliminate polishing and minimize the damaging effects of micro cracking. During a similar presentation about NURBS, attendees learned how this new toolpath technology will forever change the way 3D surfaces are machined. Other presentations concerning volumetric accuracy were designed to help attendees determine areas of importance when evaluating a machine tool that will be performing complex 3D machining.
The cavity and core machining presentation detailed high-performance process considerations when machining tool steels for die/mold applications, with additional insight given by International Mold Steel on the latest high-performance die and mold alloys.
A spindle vibration presentation discussed something that often goes unrecognized—how spindle vibration impacts the quality of surface finishes. This presentation also discussed predictive maintenance methods that allow mold makers to anticipate spindle failures ahead of time.
A particularly interesting presentation about EDM automation demonstrated how this process can help alleviate some of the problems facing mold makers today. Some of these include the difficulty of finding skilled toolmakers, making better use of scarce floor space, and fending off global competition.
Source: Competitive Mold Maker, Volume 4, Number 2