Benz Inc. will be presenting four new tooling systems. The company will be demonstrating its new LinA and LinS broaching tools, C-axis Angle Head and Mini Flex-Angle Head.
Both the Benz LinA and LinS broaching tools perform I.D. and O.D. broaching with one tool. I.D. and O.D. keyways, splines, torx and hex shapes can all be machined with the same tool. According to the company, use of the LinA and LinS broaching tools also reduces cycle time and increases machine life by eliminating wear on guideways and abuse on spindle bearings.
The Benz LinA broaching system changes the rotary motion of the live tool turret into a linear motion for broach and spline machining on turning centers. With the LinA in place, the programmer can position the Z-axis to the start position and program a constant X feed until the broach depth has been achieved, at 1,000 RPM/1,000 strokes per minute. It utilizes an integrated feature that lifts the tool .006" off the material on the return stroke for a better surface finish and tool life. "A typical 3/8 inch x .187 inch x 1.250 inch keyway would take almost two minutes to cut on a lathe," said a company spokesperson. "The LinA can machine the same feature in steel in six to eight seconds." Benz offers the LinA radial and axial models, available in both long- and short-stroke versions.
The Benz LinS broaching tool system enables programmers to broach splines, torx, hex and keyways on their machining centers. "The LinS provides broaching solutions without compromising either spindle or spindle-bearing integrity," said the spokesperson. "By rotating the spindle at 50 RPM, the LinS provides spindle and bearing protection and the torque arm eliminates oscillating spindle conditions that will cause the broach insert to chip." The LinS can also be adjusted manually to provide 360° rotation and can be used with a fourth axis to create splines, torx and hex shapes.
The recently launched Benz C-axis Angle Head can be rotated to predetermined positions automatically while mounted in the machine using the C-axis of the machine spindle. Its index position and accuracy are controlled by a Hirth coupling, which can be unclamped by the main spindle using coolant or air to adjust angles. Users can also position multiple angles faster and reduce the need for multiple angle heads set to specific angles. This tool may be used for the automotive and aerospace industry.
The new Benz Mini Flex Angle Head is compact and available in a 90° or adjustable angle head version. It is designed for BT30 drill/tap machine tools like the Brother, Chiron and FANUC RoboDrill and delivers 6,000 RPM with 360° angular rotation.
In addition to its four new products, Benz will also be demonstrating its Solidfix and the CAPTO quick change systems.
The Benz Solidfix Modular quick change system is designed to enable users to change tools quickly using adapters that hold a variety of tools instead of requiring a labor-intensive manual tool change. "This proprietary, patented Benz Solidfix modular quick-change system lets the user preset adapters for precise, repeatable tool changes in 10 to 15 seconds," said the spokesperson. "It requires no special tools, can be operated safely with one hand, incorporates both a 180° bayonet style lock and ejection features and has no screws to lose. Benz Solidfix provides a cone locator surface and full face contact for maximum accuracy and rigidity.
"Instead of time consuming tool changes and high cost of specialty tools, the Solidfix spindle can be positioned where the operator can quickly change adapters and resume machining the part. It helps reduce set-up time by 90% and enables users to produce more parts every day."
Benz also will be exhibiting the Benz CAPTO quick change system, which performs the same basic functions as the Benz Solidfix system. The Benz CAPTO system is a little more heavy duty and offers a wider variety of third party adapters. Both systems offer the same one handed 10 - 15 second adapter change. For cost conscious customers, the Benz Solidfix is a more affordable solution to the Benz CAPTO system.
For more information contact:
Benz, Inc.
8325-J Arrowridge Blvd.
Charlotte, NC 28273
704-529-5300
www.benz-inc.com
IMTS 2014 Booth W-2445