PHOTO CAPTION: The easy to learn and use TRAK LPM VMC is designed to make high-mix low-volume work cost effective.
As pressures mount to reduce inventories, machine shops must find a way to produce only what is needed, when needed, to remain competitive. "The problem is, high-mix, low-volume work is inherently inefficient due to part changeovers, and the majority of VMCs are not designed to address this inefficiency," said a Southwestern Industries spokesperson. "Even if they were, they are difficult to learn and use, so finding skilled machinists to run them is expensive.
"The TRAK LPM VMC from Southwestern Industries was designed from the ground up to address these issues. Easy to learn and use, it is the only vertical machining center that integrates the machine, control, fixturing and tool offset measurements into one complete system. This means that it does not require expensive probing systems that consume valuable spindle time to measure offsets. It also means that it does not require a large number of special fixtures to facilitate quick changeovers."
Because the TRAK LPM utilizes Southwestern Industries' ProtoTRAK conversational language, most machinists can learn to run it within a day. Programs can be generated and edited in G-code at the machine for added convenience and flexibility. Software includes Parasolid 3D and DXF 2D file converters and Verify Machining Simulation software, all of which are designed to reduce programming time and help eliminate programming errors, rework and scrap.
The TRAK LPM's quick changeover capabilities are made possible by the use of existing technologies that reduce spindle-off changeover times and convert spindle-off changeover activities into spindle-run changeover activities. These technologies include:
- A Jergens ball-lock system is built into the worktable. This allows fixtures to be quickly changed out from one job to the next. Because the ProtoTRAK PMX control knows the location of the ball locks and part "zeros", the need to perform changeover vise tramming is, according to the company, virtually eliminated.
- A ProtoTRAK PMX control Stage View feature allows the operator to generate a program and enter tool offsets for one job while the machine makes parts for another. The PMX control also contains a Program Annotation Notes and Photos feature that makes it easy for the operator to remember and use past part set-ups.
- An external tool setting system allows an operator to determine tool offsets for one job while the TRAK LPM machines parts for another.
For more information contact:
Bruce Meredith, Marketing
Southwestern Industries, Inc.
2615 Homestead Place
Rancho Dominguez, CA 90220
310-608-4422
info@southwesternindustries.com
www.southwesternindustries.com