Tech Trends: Maximize Moldmaking Processes

There’s a lot of parts that go into the mold manufacturing process. From software to help design molds to five-axis machining or EDM to maintaining and inspecting molds, there’s so many products to choose from to help bring a mold to life. Check out some of these latest machines and products below that can help you maximize your moldmaking processes!

Machine Series Engineered to Simplify Gundrilling

UNISIG’s next generation of UNE series gundrilling machines deliver operational flexibility, improved performance and effortless operation. The series is engineered and designed to simplify gundrilling, well-suited for various industries, including firearms, automotive, medical, energy, defense and aerospace.

Simultaneous Five-Axis Conversion Process Decreases Unnecessary Movements

CGS North America releases version 15.1 of its CAM-Tool software. The latest release includes updates to the simultaneous five-axis conversion (auto) process to decrease unnecessary movements. It generates five-axis tool paths systematically and gives a smooth surface finish by minimizing the movement of the rotation axis. The software’s component point rearrangement is implemented to achieve the smoothest movement of the machine tool to obtain optimal surface finish. It arranges component points at equal intervals. 3D Offset Cutting and Curve Control Along Surface modes support barrel and lens cutter. G01 Cross Hole Drilling controls the feed rate on the cross section of holes, recognizing the crossing section of previous processes and changes the feed rates. This speeds up deep hole drilling by reducing the feed rate only at the crossing section.

Die-Sinking EDM Optimizes Micromachining Processes

GF Machining Solutions showcases the AgieCharmilles Form X 400 die-sinking EDM solution paired with the System 3R’s WorkShopManager (WSM) and WorkPartner 1+ (WPT1+) compact part and electrode changing robot. The Form X 400 features the intelligent speed power generator, so users can utilize the machine series’ discharge circuit to provide spark erosion power modulation for high flexibility and maximum material removal. The system optimizes micromachining processes so that fewer electrodes are needed to machine sharp internal corners. The Form X series also includes the latest generation of the AC Form human-machine interface. The series’ software ensures greater reliability, improved machining efficiency and less unproductive time for the highest level of precision and machine performance.

Coordinate Measuring Machine Operates Without Compressed Air

Mitutoyo America Corporation announces the release of the MiSTAR 555 CNC shop floor coordinate measuring machine to its CMM product line that operates without compressed air and on conventional 120V 20 amp electrical service. The CMM is a compact, space-saving in-line or near-line CNC coordinate measuring machine designed for high-speed, high-accuracy measurements with accuracy assurance from 10°C to 40°C. It features an open-structure design with a single support moving bridge enabling users to mount workpieces from the front, rear and right for installation and a walk-up inspection station for easier operability. The modular control unit and PC are stored in the base of the main body structure, reducing the installation area to approximately 70% from a conventional moving bridge model for location flexibility. The CMM also uses a scale detection system with a high resistance to airborne contaminants, eliminating the need for costly environmental controlled enclosures.

Computed Tomography Data-Analysis Software Brings Expertise in Quality Assurance

Volume Graphics brings expertise in quality assurance and process optimization via its advanced industrial computed tomography (CT) data-analysis software. Industrial CT has been an indispensable technology in tool and mold inspection for years, enabling non-destructive testing of manufactured components. The software provides a deeper look into CT results, revealing flaws that may be invisible to the naked eye, comparing as-manufactured parts to their original designs and simulating the performance of part geometries to guide design and/or manufacturing corrections. Comparisons between CT and CAD datasets reduce molding-tool corrections for defects and warpage to a minimum.

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