Germany – A look at the misinformation that prevents mouldmakers from taking advantage of 5-axis machining strategies to shorten total machining times. By Michael Cope, Senior Applications Engineer from Hurco

Foremost Specialist Products is a subcontract manufacturer of precision engineered components based in Derby, UK. To take on the “complex and awkward parts that no else wants to tackle”, the company has invested in a Sodick ALC600G CNC wire-erosion machine from Sodi-Tech EDM. Among the jobs being successfully accommodated by the machine are stainless steel tubular stem guides for power generator turbines.

Like in many other companies, the idea of implementing 3D printing into the production process was first met with scepticism at Pankl Racing System. However, the company was able to save a considerable amount of money in less then a year after buying the first 3D printer.

The VC1650 5-axis machining centre from Germany-based machine tool builder Spinner is said to be able to machine complex components weighing up to two tonnes within an 820-mm cube.

USA – With its affordable Accute-X “Great Economy” (GE) wire EDM machines, US-based Absolute Machine Tools offers a line of machines reportedly combining high cutting speed and accuracy.

A manager at one of the partners dubbed the agreement a “perfect fit”.

Featuring numerous innovations that were presented at EMO 2017, Hanover, Germany.

UK – Neat coolant oil is an expensive commodity. An Isle of Man, UK-based firm of precision engineers shares its experience of a recovery system said to save money and protect the environment.

HRS Flow can supply complicated cooling inserts made via additive manufacturing. The company discusses some of the advantages of such components produced with generative technology.

In the past, blow-moulding companies have largely avoided prototyping due to the high cost and long lead times of the process. Stratasys explains the steps needed to use its pair of technologies to eliminate these concerns.