Published 01/31/2025

Precision Machining Technology Review: January 2025

Production Machining’s January 2025 technology showcase includes some of the latest technology from Forkhardt Hardinge, Sandvik Coromant, Heule Precision Tools, Supertec Machinery and Tungaloy.

Edited by: Chris Pasion

Managing Editor, Modern Machine Shop | Production Machining

Forkardt Hardinge Swiss Workholding Provides Reliable, Consistent Performance

Source: Forkhardt Hardinge

Forkardt Hardinge’s Swiss collets are designed to provide optimized concentricity and gripping strength for Swiss-style machines. These collets are said to securely hold parts without marring surfaces, minimizing vibration to ensure smoother machining, enhanced accuracy and extended tool life. Designed with precision in mind, collets and guide bushings feature enough spring draw to handle slight diameter variations in bar stock, providing reliability and consistency, the company says.

Sandvik Coromant ATC System Boosts Machine Utilization

Source: Sandvik Coromant

Sandvik Coromant is introducing an automatic tool change (ATC) system for its machine-adapted clamping units (MACU) in turning centers. This specialized solution enables unmanned production, free from manual handling, for improved machine utilization and increased output, the company says.

In complex part production, the time-consuming process of manual tool changes often results in low utilization of turning centers. Sandvik’s ATC solution for machine-adapted clamping units addresses this issue by enabling full automation in turning centers. ATC for MACU is said to eliminate the need for manual handling, resulting in higher machine utilization and increased productivity. Furthermore, complex part production becomes more efficient with an ATC-enabled turning center, streamlining the manufacturing process.

Heule Cutting Tool Provides Chatter-Free Countersinks

Heule Precision Tools’ GH-K tooling provides precision, chatter-free countersinks in a wide range of materials. Engineered with a positive geometry for high-shear cutting action, it features carbide blades for machining cast iron, steel, aluminum and nonferrous materials, with optional HSS-Cobalt coated blades for steel and stainless-steel applications. Three-bladed tools are supplied for manual or CNC applications; single-bladed tools for all machining centers.

As the tool is fed into the part, the blades start cutting once the tip contacts the material. The operator continues to feed the tool until the desired countersink size is achieved, then rapidly retracts the tool. The GH-K’s shallow radial clearance is said to ensure precision and chatter-free operation, although controlled feed rates may be necessary. Shims can be added to adjust the tool’s performance for more aggressive feed rates.

Supertec Machinery ID/OD Grinder Reduces Setup Times

Source: Supertec Machinery

Supertec Machinery’s PMGII-150CNC is a turret-type multispindle ID/OD grinder. The PMGII-150CNC features a between-centers distance of 1,500 mm (60") and a 380-mm (15") diameter working capacity, making it one of the largest capacity turret type ID/OD grinders on the market, according to the company.

The PMGII-150CNC comes with a 20" plunge-type OD wheel, a 16" angle-head OD wheel and an optional rpm ID spindle, which enables a wide range of grinding capabilities. With a turret design having the capability of three grinders in one, the PMGII models can reduce setup time and improve overall cycle times on complicated jobs. Also combining three spindles onto one machine enables the PMGII models to minimize floor space for other requirements.

Tungaloy Milling Tool Provides Enhanced Edge Strength

Source: Tungaloy Corp.

Tungaloy Corp.’s MillQuadFeed series includes flat-top inserts with enhanced edge strength. These inserts come in two variations: the Z-type for versatile use and the U-type for small entry angles, providing improved durability and stable performance in challenging machining environments, such as interrupted cutting and machining of hardened materials.

The MillQuadFeed cutting tool combines low cutting resistance with high rigidity through its hybrid design, providing reliable performance in heavy-duty machining. It features a specialized insert geometry that is said to reduce cutting resistance by up to 20%, enhancing machining efficiency. Suitable for a wide range of applications such as shoulder milling and plunging, MillQuadFeed also provides double the tool life compared to conventional tools, according to the company.