Published 11/9/2023

Discover Metalworking Technologies Targeted to Mold Shops

What EDM, automation and machining technologies are currently available to the mold manufacturing industry? MMT has compiled a list of some of the latest.

Grace Nehls, Former MMT Editor

Machining

Machining Center Provides Robust, Dynamic Milling Qualities

Photo credit: Chiron

Today’s demanding machining applications, where components are machined from a solid block, or workpieces are required to have deep cavities or have hog-out requirements, need machining centers which combine optimum milling performance with maximum precision. This is where the new FZ 16 S five-axis by Chiron America Inc., with an HSK-A 100 interface, comes in.

Five-Axis Machine Expands Advantages for Moldmaking

Photo credit: Expand Machinery

Five-axis machines, such as the Gen Mill 5X-24 from Expand Machinery, offer many moldmaking advantages, particularly where complex geometric cavities require a smooth and accurate surface finish, which is achieved through optimized toolpath and cutting angle control. The 5X-24’s ability to rotate and tilt the tool in multiple directions gives it access to hard-to-reach surfaces all in one setup, which increases accuracy and reduces labor and lead time for faster mold production.

Easy-to-Use CNC Control With Redesigned Graphical Interface

Kitamura Machinery’s high-performance Arumatik-Mi control system has been updated with a redesigned graphical interface (GUI). With a more intuitive design and user-friendly features, the system is reported to be well suited for easier programming and part setup and simplified machine operation for operators of all levels.

Photo credit: Kitamura Machinery

Enhanced Jig Grinder Features Meet Manufacturing Flexibility Requirements

Photo credit: Mitsui Seiki USA

The high-performance Mitsui Seiki J350G jig grinder offers a combination of application flexibility, accuracy, reliability and operator-friendly operation, particularly for companies involved in mold or die-making where jig grinders can be used, for example, for through holes, shut-off or molding details.

Space-Saving Five-Axis Provides Productive Mold Machining

Photo credit: Grob Systems

The G150 five-axis universal machining center from Grob Systems Inc. is a small but mighty innovation targeting moldmaking applications. It is equipped with features that provide a wide range of benefits including optimal chip evacuation via its a horizontal spindle position which reportedly permits the longest possible Z-travel path in its machine class. Tool changes occur outside of the work area, which eliminates chip interference.

Five-Axis VMCs Attend to Versatile Machining Task Needs

Mold shops today are looking for vertical machining centers (VMCs) that can produce more faster with higher precision. YCM Technology (USA) Inc. highlights the CF/CX Series C-frame machines and RF/RX Series Ram-type machines as potential solutions. Both are available in 4+1 or five-axis high-spec configurations, which enables precision and reliability needed by moldmakers; the former machines parts up to 400 mm in diameter and the latter 650 mm in diameter.

Photo credit: YCM Technology (USA) Inc.

EDM

EDM Machining Services Supplier Specializes in Precision Component Manufacturing

Photo credit: Accu-Prompt Inc.

Accu-Prompt Inc. has been in business for 32 years supplying fast, reliable and cost-effective EDM services to mold shops and molding facilities. Specializing in precision component manufacturing and EDM machining, the Minneapolis-based company supports customers through wire, conventional and micro EDMs, as well as its spinning and indexing capabilities.

Fast Wire EDM Targets 3D-Printed Mold Component Removal

Photo credit: Matsuura Machinery

EDM Network Inc. is now offering an economical fast wire EDM solution with the EDMMax 434W for 3D-printed metal removal on parts like the mold inserts above, printed on the Matsuura Lumex Hybrid metal 3D printer/hard mill.

Automation

Digital Customer Platform Expands Automation Convenience, Support

Photo credit: KUKA

Global automation company KUKA is presenting customers with more features and convenience via the relaunched and expanded my.KUKA.com expanded digital customer platform. Once registered, users can purchase robots, source and buy spare parts, manage their KUKA assets, and access training materials and cloud-based software at any time, from anywhere and on any internet-enabled device.

Automation System Loads up Expandability, Scalability and Precision for Moldmakers

Automation technologies, like the System 3R Transformer modular automation system from GF Machining Solutions, boost productivity, profitability and global competitiveness for moldmaking shops. It is expandable and scalable, and its adaptability and flexibility ensure that it will never be too specialized or too small to meet a facility’s future requirements.

Photo credit: GF Machining Solutions

Robotic Toolchangers Automate Mold Production

Photo credit: Staubli

Stäubli constructs and develops high-quality robotic toolchanging systems. By automating tasks, the company’s solutions enable moldmakers to reduce the risk of error, save valuable time, and improve the overall quality and consistency of their molds.

The robotic toolchanger can be used in a variety of applications throughout the moldmaking process to improve precision, reduce labor requirements and increase productivity.

Flexibility, Maintenance Support is Made Available for Machine Tending Line

Mitsubishi Electric Automation’s LoadMate Plus machine tending line is engineered for easy setup, flexibility and mobility, while addressing labor shortage challenges and the pressure to maximize productivity. Machine tending, the process of loading and unloading parts or materials into a machine tool center, is often a key component that enable unattended or lights-out machining operations for mold manufacturers, and gives employees the opportunity to work on duties of greater value in the shop.