MACHINE FROM SOLID

There are a huge range of holding options available, from the old-fashioned clamp blocks and cut profiles all the way up to one-operation solutions like five axis clamping, tombstones and Chic jaws. It is the cost / time equation that is always the driving force so the simplest solution frequently wins over modernity and complexity.

Holding selection is a science that requires experience and lateral thinking in order to find the solutions that reduce operational demands, minimise airtime, and expedite the most productive machine loading.

Numachine designs its own bespoke profiles and form tools as speed and cost are always critcal issues but, also because the design process enhances the knowledge of CNC design and improves our Design for Machining service.

CASTINGS & EXTRUSIONS

Numachine specialises in machining castings and understands the different, more extensive range of holding options required over standard machining. With pneumatic, hydraulic and quick release options all available, there is always a solution – but it takes time, experience and creativity to find it.

Numachine relies on operative in-cycle probing which, in conjunction with traditional jig spots and datums, allows for continual location affirmation on all castings and extrusions. This enables us to achieve far greater levels of consistency across all castings, and much faster operating times and lower costs.

Numachine has long used the traditional 3 2 1 holding philosophy, in which the components we create rest on three points (usually datums) but the advent of 3D printing is increasingly driving the use of profiled, adjustable inserts as they overcome component deformation, are faster to load, and reduce chatter and vibration.

OTHER FIXTURES

It’s advisable to create 3D printed fixtures, for CMM measurement, with snap in and out holding for better consistency. This encourages consistent checking of dimensional accuracy, even if the CNC machines are equipped with live probing.

POKE YOKE is the heart of reliable and repeatable assembly. Numachine creates 3D printed fixtures and jigs to ensure lower costs to clients, rapid turnaround times, and dependable consistency for all.

Pressure Test Fixturing is another area that demands accurate quick tooling and is one where, again, the advent of 3D printing is making things faster, cheaper and more efficient.

MULTI SET-UP FIXTURES

Cycle times and costs can be significantly reduced through fixturing that enables multiple different components to be set up and machined in one single cycle.

TOOLS GLOSSARY

INDEXABLE TOOLS

These are usually the most cost-effective solution due to their single steel shaft with cheaper carbide inserts that can also be used for multiple size applications. Inserts are typically used for stainless and aluminium, but increasingly for some specialist materials as well.

SHRINK FIT TOOLS

These tools represent huge step forward, as their almost perfect balance means runouts of only 0.003mm from true are possible, increasing achievable tolerances and tool lifespans.. Collets are still used for sizes over 25mm.

MODULAR TOOLS

Boasting one single back end, modular tools can hold many tooling options, allowing for a seamless switch from roughing to finishing without re-setting of the tool. The use of these tools is also helpful in reducing cycle times.

COOLANT TOOLS

Both Internal and External in tool cooling is available, which increases tooling life, cutting speed and chip removal.

FORM TOOLS

These bespoke tools incorporate multiple functions, which can reduce cycle times massively, whilst improving quality and reliability. It is Numachine’s ability to design extraordinary form tools in a cost effective way that puts us ahead of other CNC machinists in the industry.

ANGLED HEAD TOOLS

We employ Angled Heads despite 5 axis machining as they give us increased versatility when looking for original solutions. Angled heads are also used for specialty components, that do not require full 5 axis work, where speed is important.