Live tooling has become such an important part of industrial operations. Through the integration of a milling component to CNC turning centers, live tooling offers multiple machining options. This allows industrialists toworkon complex metalworking projects with more precision. Live tools cut lead times, reduces equipment inventory by as much as half, and helps maintain safe working conditions. With the many benefits live tooling provides, metalworking professionals must make sure these tools are in good condition all the time.When plagued with performance issues and other damages, they might compromise the quality of milling operations and pose various safety hazards.
To lengthen the service of the live tooling equipment used, machine operators need to make sure all items follow the latest industry standards. Here are a few things thatprofessionals should take into careful account:
Type and Number of Axes Lathe machines allow handlers to work on a project through the centerline of the axes X and Z. With live tools, they can even add another axis, the Y-axis, for off-center operations. Wrong configuration of the tools, however, might lead to inefficient milling and turning. Handlers need to check whether the live tools are in the correct position whenever they use them with the threeaxis machines.
Coolants Coolants help stabilize live tools, especially during the milling and turning operations.If the tools are plumbed for coolants, handlers can choose to apply them. They should be wary, however, of the rate of coolant pressure that the live tools can handle.
Gear Pairing To minimize live tool backlash in the middle of operations, each gear part should match and be snug fit. Handlers should know the specific gear design of the live tools to reduce tool stress and maximize the torque output. Live tooling makes milling and turning operations easier and safer. With regular servicing and maintenance, metalworking professional can monitor their efficiencybetterand work with more precision and accuracy.
References: http://www.mmsonline.com/articles/why-y-axis-for-turnmillmachines2 http://www.lyndexnikken.com/Static-and-Live-Tooling-for-MoriSeiki-DMG-Machines http://americanmachinist.com/machining-cutting/hold-live-tooling