Editorial, News, and Products
Stability, High Speed, Flexibility of Five-Axis Portal Milling Machine Reduces Rework for Mold Builder
The thermo-symmetrical construction of a five-axis portal milling machine with a center-guided Z-axis enables higher accuracy, reducing rework. Also, the symmetrical design and the guide arrangement increase stability and save weight, making the machine more dynamic, productive and energy-efficient.
Metalworking Commodities for Your Next-Gen Molds
Featured in this month's technology roundup are products, processes and services that revolve around metalworking. Also highlighted is software, automation and more.
Products and Services for Multiple Moldmaking Needs
New year, new technology roundup! Featured here is a collection of product offerings, from profile milling cutters to industry-specific CAD/CAM software to innovative hot work tool steels.
Machine Tool Breakage Detector Enhances Mold Manufacturing Reliability
Heidenhain’s new TD 110 is a fast, contact-free, in-process gage that can quickly inspect drill bits and end mills, even while spinning at their operational speed.
Maintaining a Competitive Edge: EDM, Automation and Machining Technology Roundup
This month’s technology roundup features products, processes and services relating to EDM, automation and machining. For example, jig grinding for large molds, scheduling automation software, cobot integration, die sinker EDM and much more.
Hybrid Milling/Drilling Machine Reduces Total Mold Machining Time
MSI Mold Builders now squares, plus drills and taps eye-bolt holes on 50% of its tools in a single setup using a five-axis milling/drilling center with a universal spindle.
Digital Shopfloor Solution Monitors, Prioritizes Production Site Data
Heidenhain’s new PlantMonitor enhances digital manufacturing for mold builders by connecting multiple StateMonitors for transparent and simultaneous production data monitoring and analyzing.
Control Helps Push the Limits of Five-Axis Micro Mold Machining Accuracy
Toolmaker quickly meets the demands of critical medical device manufacturers with a new five-axis machine tool equipped with the right control technology.
Heidenhain Launches Redesigned Website
More intuitive website layouts and expanded content assists visitors in finding and obtaining information they need quicker and easier.
Moldmaking Applications Supported by CNC Controller With Fully Integrated Process Monitoring
At IMTS, Heidenhain says it is entering a new chapter in North American shop-floor-centered manufacturing with the TNC7 CNC controller for fully integrated process monitoring and greater functionality.
Speed, Productivity Gains and High Uptime Ease Decision for Second Five-Axis Machine
Byrne Tool + Design reduced setups and gained speed and productivity thanks to fast, accurate and compact five-axis CNC machining centers.
“Molds Make a Difference” at the Plastics Technology Expo
That was the sentiment of every person who came up to the MoldMaking Technology booth during last week’s Plastics Technology Expo to grab their giveaway “Molds Make” t-shirt after working the aisles seeking technology and process solutions and making new business connections.
Heidenhain Offers Education for Machine Programming
The Heidenhain Education Support Program will bring the latest advancements on the shop floor to classrooms of vocational training centers, universities and corporate trainee programs.
Helping High-Precision, Multiaxis CNC Machines Maintain Tight-Tolerance Control
Standardizing Heidenhain control systems on multiaxis CNC machines across the shop floor help Cavalier Tool streamline setups and post-process work, increase accuracy, and improve turnaround and scheduling flexibility to maintain its competitive edge.
VIDEO: 6 Factors a Mold Builder Should Consider in a CNC Control
Many mold builders choose high-speed cutting over EDM because CNCs are able to meet the required tolerances and finishes. The control is key to this. Here we break down what a mold builder should look for in a CNC control.
Metalworking Technologies Targeting Mold Builders
Inspection/measurement, cutting tools, design software, machining and automation equipment round out this technology roundup.
High-Precision Touch Probe for Grinders/Lathes Enables High-Accuracy Molds, Components
Increasing probing speeds and low probing force make the highly accurate TS 750 touch probe from Heidenhain reliable for even soft and delicate workpieces.
Six CNC Control Features for Moldmakers
A CNC control should have features to automatically smooth the axis movements or allow the operator to set tolerance limits manually.
Magnetic Ring Encoder Delivers Functional Safety for Machine Tool
Heidenhain’s contamination-resistant, absolute modular magnetic angle ECM 2400 is suitable for high rotational speeds, angular accelerations and limited space.
Enhanced Remote Monitoring, Data Evaluation Platform Boosts Manufacturing Efficiency
Per machine tool user requests, the new features identified in Heidenhain’s StateMonitor version 1.4.0 better connect machine tool date digitally, improve production efficiencies and introduce maintenance support.
Six-Axis Universal Machining Center Accommodates Mold Machining
Machining company Soraluce introduces the TA-D 25 enabling high-precision, simultaneous and continuous four-axes machining.
Videos Answer Hot-Topic Moldmaking Questions
Eight questions MoldMaking Technology asks industry experts about CNC controls, the changing training landscape, the human resources and marketing keys to workforce development, predictive engineering, data, visual search, OEE monitoring and additive venting.
Advancing the Mold with Amerimold 2021 Education Sessions
With an expanded three day schedule, more free educational sessions are being offered than ever before, including a range of sessions from Amerimold exhibitors.
RCN Angle Encoders Advance Machine Tool and Direct-Drive Motor Performance
The Heidenhain RCN absolute angle encoder series comes in three new models and is ideal for applications requiring highly accurate positioning and high speeds.
Encoder Interface Enables Improved Machine Motion Control
The Heidenhain EnDat 3 interface is now available in ExI 1100 rotary encoders and offers users additional advancements.
Technology Roundup: You'll Only See It Here!
MMT presents a compilation of digital-only new/proven product content. Cutting tools, machining, AM, software and inspection/measurement categories are showcased in this latest roundup.
Turning Control System Designed for Two-Axis Lathe Machining
Heidenhain Turnpwr is a closed-loop system said to maximize throughput by reducing setup time, scrap and other non-productive operations.
Heidenhain Opens New ACU-RITE Technology Education Center
ATEC provides North American customers and prospects with direct access to see and use all its ACU-RITE brand machine tool components, and take advantage of its expert trainers.
Heidenhain Donates Exposed Optical Encoders To Support ASPE Student Challenge
The twelve Numerik Jena LIKgo encoders will be incorporated into the six critical XY stages of the annual precision engineering student competition.
Enhanced Heidenhain StateMonitor Meets Machine Control Connectivity Needs
Heidenhain’s StateMonitor system, which will be presented at Amerimold 2021, avoids unnecessary downtime and bottlenecks, and enables machine data to be available on any device no matter the user’s location.
Heidenhain Announces Opening of Expanded Western U.S. Headquarters
Heidenhain Corp. announced the opening of its newly completed West Coast headquarters.
Five-Axis Hard Milling Improves Electrode Accuracy
Fully automated, high-speed hard milling centers saved moldmaker time, money, handwork, allowed wider-range of EDM burns to be achieved.
Control Offers Higher Spindle and Axis Dynamics During Manufacturing Process
Heidenhain Corporation launches the Gen 3 version of its high-end TNC 640 control for machine manufacturers and end users looking for forward-thinking manufacturing capabilities.
Heidenhain Corporation Partners with Applied Motion Products, Inc.
In a collaborative effort to support the healthcare industry during the COVID-19 crisis, Heidenhain Corporation is working with Applied Motion Products, Inc. to expedite critical components to a large manufacturer of ventilators.
How to Improve Mold Machining with the Right Control Functions
Fine tune machine setup, minimize forces and deviations, improve accuracy, and manage automation with proper control.
Control Technology Includes Features to Create Programs on the Fly
Heidenhain Corp. showcases its latest in control technology, including the TNC 640, a high-performance, mill-turn control with a workshop-oriented operational design.
Heidenhain Corporation Hosts Virtual Five-Axis Workshop
Heidenhain Corporation will host a virtual five-axis workshop on Thursday, April 30 from 12:00 – 2:00 pm.
Rotary Series Encoders Ideal for Small Servo Motors and Actuators
Heidenhain introduces an expansion of its small-diameter 1000 and 1100 series rotary encoders with added versions now available with Siemens DRIVE-CLiQ
Noteworthy News: Openings & Expansions
Business is booming for these recent moldmaking supplier companies as they add onto their businesses through building expansions, additions and new openings.
HEIDENHAIN Opens Cental U.S. Sales Office
Heidenhain announces the opening of a central U.S. sales office as part of the company’s continued North American expansion efforts.
Amerimold Action 2019
Amerimold celebrated 20 years in Rosemont, Illinois, and offered attendees a wide variety of products, programs and pomp.
Machine Tool Builder Stresses New Strategies for Serving Moldmaking Customers
A new facility, new compact CNC and new customer service strategy for moldmaking customers is celebrated at Zimmermann open house.
Live Show Floor Recap from Amerimold 2019
In the midst of exhibitors breaking down at the close of Amerimold 2019, the MoldMaking Technology editorial team set up shop at the MMT booth to do a live Manufacturing Alliance Podcast, sharing some immediate insight and feedback on this annual event.
Amerimold 2019: Machining for Moldmaking, Part 2
More highlights from Amerimold with a focus on machining for moldmaking.
Battling Robots Continue to Attract Youth to STEM-Based Learning
Heidenhain was a sponsor of the recent National Robotics League’s national competition “where education and mayhem meet.”
Machining Center’s Operational Design Suited for Precision
Heidenhain Corporation will display the TNC 640 high performance mill-turn control with a workshop-oriented operational design and functions for users at Amerimold.
Five-Axis Workshop Offers Advanced Strategies, New Products and Live Demos
Three companies collaborate to give attendees new approaches for achieving speed and efficiency in rough and finish machining.
Heidenhain Opens West Coast Office
Heidenhain has expanded its motion systems support by establishing an Etel facility in Fremont, California.
Heidenhain TNC Controls Streamline Mold Manufacturing and Global Connectivity
Five-axis machines with the right controls are a key part of a connected system that yields better, faster work.
Online CNC Training Available from Heidenhain
Heidenhain’s multimedia online CNC controls learning program, HIT 3.0, is now available.
Automation and Connectivity Drive Machine-Tool Innovations
Machine tool and EDM suppliers are advancing their offerings to include automation, better controls, machine monitoring and new five-axis capabilities.
Heidenhain Appoints New CEO
Heidenhain announces the appointment of their new CEO, effective Oct. 1, 2018.
2018 Technology Review and Sourcing Guide: Inspection/Measurement
MoldMaking Technology’s annual Technology Review and Sourcing Guide is an accurate, comprehensive, easy-to-read and easy-to-use use guide for researching today’s technology, equipment, products and services. The year’s latest moldmaking product developments within mold engineering/design, build and maintenance/repair are broken down into 10 sections, including inspection/measurement.
High-Speed and High-Power Options Available on Milling Machines
Both high-speed and high-power versions are both available on Taurus 25 & 30 Bridge Type milling machines from Waldrich Coburg NA Inc.
Rotary Table Accommodates Workpieces for Precise Machining
The swiveling rotary table on the Hermle C 650 machine can accommodate workpieces up to 1500 kg (Ø 900 x 600 mm).
Heidenhain Donates to UNCC Center for Precision Metrology
Heidenhain donations to UNCC Center allow for the continued education and research in precision engineering and metrology.
Tradeshow Tuesday: On Display at Amerimold 2018
Cruise through this week’s slideshow for a peek at some of what will be on display at Amerimold 2018.
Machine Monitoring Software Enables Remote Status Updates
Heidenhain introduces software that enables users to track and evaluate machine status from remote devices.
Technology Tuesday: A Mix of Machining Products
Cruise through this week’s Technology Tuesday slideshow to see the latest products in machining.
Software Technology Is More Versatile, Efficient and Simplified
Software suppliers are working diligently to provide moldmakers with relevant but easy-to-use solutions that speed processes and lower costs.
Gaining Control of Five-Axis Mold Machining
The CNC motion system is key to tackling the tight tolerances and superior finishes of modern mold manufacturing.
Technology Showcase: Machining, AM and Software
With Amerimold in our rear-view mirror for the time being, there are still several new products that have been released, or will be soon, to bring to MMT readers’ attention.
Technology Showcase: Inspection and Measurement Edition
Looking to step up your best practices for verification of the molds and parts you manufacture? Check out our slideshow for highlights of some of the latest inspection and measurement equipment introduced in the last year.
Examining Mold Surface Quality
High-quality rotary encoders can help improve the quality of milled surfaces.
SLIDESHOW: Technology Showcase, Inspection and Measurement
No matter what size moldmaking operation you may own or work at, you need inspection and measurement at critical stages of the process to drive efficiencies and profitability. So here are a few of the latest products we’ve heard about that you may also wish to see.
Avoid Mold Reload and Rework with Machine Probes
Probing on a machine with ready-to-use probing cycles can help reduce setup times, increase machine usage time and improve the dimensional accuracy of the finished workpiece.