Category Archives: Advanced Manufacturing

Verisurf Announces Inspection Planner Suite

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Verisurf Software, Inc. introduces Inspection Planner Suite, the latest in a series of application suites. Inspection Planner provides an affordable solution with full-featured CAD capabilities, open device compatibility, and an optimized inspection and reporting process.

Verisurf’s New Inspection Planner Suite lets users quickly and easily create and execute inspection plans for arms, trackers, scanners, and manual CMMs, including executing proven inspection plans on CNC CMMs.

Inspection Planner lets users quickly and easily create and execute inspection plans for arms, trackers, scanners, and manual CMMs. It also supports executing proven inspection plans on CNC CMMs supporting all 3-axis and 5-axis probing systems. The Inspection Planner workflow supports CAD, model-based definition (MBD)/product manufacturing information (PMI), plan creation and execution, and GD&T reporting and analysis.

Inspection Planner users tap into the power of Verisurf, the only measurement software built on a full-featured 3D CAD/CAM platform and rooted in intelligent MBD. This enables users to perform metrology workflows in a seamless CAD environment and maintain model-based digital continuity.

  • Supports all CAD file formats
  • Intelligent MBD/PMI support and creation
  • Full-featured 3D CAD/CAM environment
  • Inspection plan creation using 2D drawings or 3D CAD
  • Simplify the inspection planning process using Verisurf’s Automate Manager
  •  Run inspection plans using Verisurf’s Auto Inspect Manager, including off-line extraction and analysis
  • Intelligent GD&T with powerful analysis and reporting, including AS9102, SPC, database, and more
  • Run proven inspection plans on CNC CMMs supporting all 3-axis and 5-axis probing systems

The New Inspection Planner Suite offers flexible licensing options, including subscription, perpetual, standalone, or networkable licenses to meet individual customer needs. Prices start at $2,500 and include free Verisurf University online training, software updates, and live technical support. Contact Verisurf for more information or a demonstration of the Inspection Planner Suite on your parts and your environment.

For more information about Verisurf, visit verisurf.com.

Quickparts Launches Online Tool for Volume Mfg Solutions

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Quickparts has announced the launch of a new online tool designed to streamline the request process for volume manufacturing solutions.

Quickparts provides customers with a dedicated team of project, engineering and production team from the start of every project

This innovative tool, available through the Quickparts portal, QuickQuote, caters in particular to customers with large-scale or complex projects primarily in CNC machining, injection molding and additive manufacturing.

Quickparts provides a DfM as standard with every project

Simplified Volume Manufacturing Solutions Requests

Through the new online tool, customers can easily submit requests for volume manufacturing projects. The user-friendly interface allows them to upload their files and then enter details such as proposed production scheduling, lead times, quality requirements, design specifications, materials, accreditation needs and preferred processes. This streamlined approach triggers a rapid response from a dedicated project team, which paves the way for further discussions around customer project needs, and enabling customized quotes and solutions that perfectly align with their requirements.

Quickparts has the capacity and capability to handle large volume production projects

Quickparts’ Commitment to Volume Production

In recent months, Quickparts has significantly increased its emphasis on volume production capabilities, ensuring that customers benefit from comprehensive manufacturing services that span the entire product lifecycle and seamlessly scale from prototyping to full-scale production.

Quickparts’ quality control measures are constantly evolving to ensure parts meet expectations every time

The company emphasizes its unwavering commitment to providing a comprehensive suite of manufacturing services, including:

  • Full Product Lifecycle Support: Quickparts offers seamless support throughout the entire product lifecycle, from initial design and prototyping to full-scale volume production.
  • Dedicated Project Management and a Dedicated Team of Experts: Each project is assigned a dedicated program manager, ensuring clear communication and expert guidance throughout the manufacturing process. Quickparts’ team of highly skilled professionals collaborates closely with customers throughout the entire manufacturing process, from initial design consultation to prototyping, production, and ongoing support for product upgrades.
  • Customizable Manufacturing Solutions: Quickparts understands that every project is unique. The company’s team of experts works closely with each customer to develop a customized manufacturing strategy that meets their specific requirements.
  • Global Manufacturing Capacity: With six in-house facilities strategically located around the world and a network of vetted manufacturing partners, Quickparts possesses the capacity to handle even the most demanding volume production projects.
  • Unwavering Quality Assurance: Quickparts prioritizes quality above all else. Rigorous quality assurance processes are implemented throughout every stage of production, ensuring that each part meets the highest standards of excellence. The company adheres to strict quality control measures and is ISO 9001:2015, ISO 9100:2018, ISO 27001: 2022 and ITAR registered, with further key ISO certifications on the cards for 2024/2025.

For more information, visit quickparts.com.

Heckler & Koch Selects Flexxbotics for Robot-Driven Mfg

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Flexxbotics announced that Heckler & Koch USA (HKUSA), a leading designer and manufacturer of small arms and light weapons for military forces and law enforcement worldwide, has chosen Flexxbotics for robot-driven manufacturing with autonomous process control. Advanced robotic machine tending with Flexxbotics enables Heckler & Koch to increase capacity with precision quality to keep up with strong demand globally while addressing labor challenges through unattended operation.

With Flexxbotics HKUSA achieves a robot-enabled, multi-machine cellularized setup for machining complex geometry parts. The robot will operate both an Okuma 5-Axis vertical machining center and an Okuma horizontal machining center along with an integrated water dunk & blow-off station, a Hexagon Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM), Renishaw inspection probe and SICK safety scanner all within an individual workcell. Automating the complete process of machining and inspection results in an 87% capacity increase and 24:1 machine-to-man ratio.

HKUSA is a provider of small arms to law enforcement, defense departments and the US civilian with a reputation for quality, innovation and safety. With operations in Germany, USA, UK and France, Heckler & Koch is a recognized leader in the development of technologically advanced products with high reliability.

The Flexxbotics solution seamlessly connects the robot to each piece of equipment and coordinates the work so the robot has full command and control of the workcell. Using closed-loop feedback CMM inspection results, Flexxbotics writes offset macro variable changes to the CNC machines’ programs. The real time corrections ensure all parts are built to spec for continuous operations using autonomous process control.

In addition, Flexxbotics communicates with the in-machine probes to ensure proper part seating before and after each CNC cycle. Based on the probe’s feedback, the robot either automatically remove and replace the part or escalates the problem via text & email if there is a workholding issue.

HKUSA selected Flexxbotics based on the following criteria:

  • Increase production capacity by over 80% per week and achieving a 24:1 machine-to-man ratio
  • Open connectivity and interoperability between the robots, CNC machines and inspection equipment
  • In-line inspection with CMM for precision quality, 100% part coverage, and closed-loop optimization for uninterrupted production
  • Solution flexibility to scale out across entire machining division with initial workcell success and quickly add additional workcells
  • Integrated safety with robot+machine coordination and connected safety scanners for the highest levels of human safety
  • Responsiveness from initial discovery workshop to deployment and on-going support

Flexxbotics solution enables robot-driven manufacturing at scale. Flexxbotics robotic workcell digitalization delivers autonomous process control for next generation smart factory environments. Flexxbotics unique FlexxCORE technology seamlessly connects and coordinates robots with existing automation equipment, IT systems and people. More powerful, flexible and open, Flexxbotics revolutionizes the use of robotics in complex production.

For more information, visit flexxbotics.com.

Southco Introduces E6-73 Constant Torque Flush Mount Hinge

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Southco has developed a flush-mount version of its popular E6 constant torque hinge. The E6-73 Stainless Steel Constant Torque Hinge provides all the benefits of a torque hinge in a low-profile, corrosion-resistant package, making it an ideal solution for those who want to maximize safety, longevity, and aesthetics. It also offers high torque for heavy-duty applications while maintaining its low profile. With all these benefits combined, the E6-73 Flush-Mount Torque Hinge provides a long-lasting solution for a variety of applications.

E6-73

 These hinges ensure that panels never slam shut, even when users let go, resulting in fewer accidents, greater convenience, and a better feel when moving a panel. Additionally, the barrel-down design of the E6-73 hinge reduces binding points and provides a continuous smooth surface when the panel is closed.

Typically, the more complicated a design is, the more likely it is to fail. The E6-73 hinge mitigates this problem with a durable, corrosion-resistant stainless steel construction that protects the internal mechanism from environmental wear and tear. It also boasts a resistance of more than 500 h to salt splashes. Thus, the E6-73 hinge can withstand even the most difficult conditions to offer a long service life.

Finally, the E6-73 twist-and-flush mount hinge enhances the aesthetics of any device where it is used. The barrel-down design keeps it level with the surface it is used on, providing a continuous smooth surface. Its resistance to corrosion also allows it to remain like new during its useful life. Torque adds a quality feel to any panel regardless of its weight. It ensures smooth movement and eliminates the factor of gravity so that users can access it in the way that is most practical for them.

The E6-73 stainless steel constant-torque, flush-mount hinge combines security, durability and aesthetics in a practical, low-profile package that integrates easily into a wide variety of designs. Corrosion resistance extends its useful life even in extreme conditions and maintains an optimal appearance throughout. Regardless of your application, the E6-73 hinge offers a solution that is built to last and look great at the same time.

For more information, visit southco.com.

Emerson Introduces SolaHD S4KD Series

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Emerson has announced the new Series D update to the family of proven SolaHD industrial rack mount on-line uninterruptible power supplies (UPSs). The new SolaHD S4KD Series replaces the current S4KC Series, offering significant user interface improvements and other design upgrades to increase reliability and product availability. The S4KD is an on-line (double conversion) UPS, providing a zero-transfer time from external to internal power upon utility power failure to deliver a seamless flow of power for critical loads. The S4KD is available in 1000-3000 VA in 120 V and 3000 VA in 230 V configurations, each housed in a slim 2U form factor.

The new Emerson SolaHD S4KD Series builds upon the exceptional ruggedness, battery life, and power quality of the previous series, and it incorporates new hardware design updates to improve usability, efficiency, and reliability.

 Emerson SolaHD line UPSs are proven performers, with rugged metal housings and hardwired connections, providing reliable power for automation, microprocessor/PC-based hardware, networking, telecommunication, medical, and other mission-critical systems. The S4KD Series builds upon the exceptional ruggedness, battery life, and power quality of the previous series, and it incorporates new hardware design updates to improve usability, efficiency, and reliability.

The S4KD Series can be configured, and provide status and diagnostic information, using the on-board interface without the need of a laptop. The LCD color graphical display is gravity sensitive, properly orienting itself for easy viewing and operation regardless of the UPS’s installation position. State-of-the-art diagnostics provide alerts to users about battery health status, efficiency metrics, replacement date prediction, data logging, input/output real-time tracking, bypass operation, faults, and much more, empowering users to keep their systems operating at peak performance.

Quality UPS technology is required by specifying engineers, systems designers, original equipment manufacturers, and others developing applications for critical industries, such as energy, oil and gas, food and beverage, chemicals, life sciences, and more. The Emerson SolaHD industrial rack Mount UPS Series D meets these requirements by maintaining the rugged design and reliable performance of the preceding series, while adding significant user interface improvements and state-of-the-art diagnostics.

To learn more about the Emerson SolaHD S4KD Series industrial rack mount on-line UPS, please visit: https://www.emerson.com/en-us/catalog/aventics-s4k2u-d-s4k2u-5d.

For more information, visit Emerson.com.

Emerson Launches AVENTICSTM Series XV Pneumatic Valves

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Emerson launched its AVENTICS Series XV pneumatic valves. Series XV valves are designed with interoperability in mind to provide machine builders across multiple industries and factory automation applications with a flexible and cost-effective valve platform. The new valves are ideal for machine builders and end users that operate across the globe, with universal threads and other features that support regional standards and global availability.

The new AVENTICS XV valve series features multiple interoperable valve sizes and higher flow rates in a compact design.

Series XV valves provide higher flow rates in a compact valve package that enables more efficient and flexible pneumatic system performance for factory automation, automotive and tire, and food and packaging applications. This helps manufacturers boost productivity and allows them to offer products customized for specific markets and customer preferences.

Series XV valves include the XV03, providing flow volumes up to 350 liters per minute in normal conditions (NL/min), and the XV05, scheduled for release in October 2024, providing up to 880 NL/min.

All valves in the Series XV line use proven AVENTICS core technology and include metal threads, parallel wiring, aluminum base plates and compact dimensions to make it easier to integrate into production system designs.

Series XV valves use consistent interfaces and have wide connectivity from single wiring over parallel connections such as D-SUB connectors. They also support leading fieldbus protocols, including PROFINET, Ethernet/IP, EtherCAT, Powerlink, Modbus TCP, IO-Link, AS-I, to simplify integration into machine control networks.

Series XV valves are also easy to commission. The AVENTICS online configurator supports system layout, providing useful information, while easy-to-understand system documentation in the design phase helps speed up machine development.

For more information about AVENTICS Series XV pneumatic valve specifications, features and resources, please visit https://www.emerson.com/en-us/catalog/aventics-xv03.

About Emerson

Emerson is a global technology and software company providing innovative solutions for the world’s essential industries. Through its automation portfolio, including its majority stake in AspenTech, Emerson helps hybrid, process and discrete manufacturers optimize operations, protect personnel, reduce emissions and achieve their sustainability goals.

For more information, visit Emerson.com.

Rockwell Announces iTRAK 5750 Intelligent Track System

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Rockwell Automation has announced the iTRAK 5750 Intelligent Track System. The system expands the Rockwell Automation iTRAK portfolio with a specialized design that is optimized for heavier payload applications. It replaces the mechanical components and complex linkages of traditional conveyor systems, instead using electromagnetic force to generate motion.

iTRAK 5750 Intelligent Track System

The system expands the Rockwell Automation iTRAK portfolio with a specialized design that is optimized for heavier payload applications. It replaces the mechanical components and complex linkages of traditional conveyor systems, instead using electromagnetic force to generate motion.

This revolutionary way to move goods provides an opportunity to design more reliable machines that require less maintenance and deliver new levels of productivity. The versatile system comprises of a variety of straight and curved tracks, offering the ability to tailor each system to its exact application requirements.

The iTRAK 5750 Intelligent Track System enables companies to keep up with technology that allows independent movement of each individual carrier and simple control of motion through user-friendly software profiles. This can remove bottlenecks and boost overall productivity so that short runs can become more profitable, while margins can be expanded in standard runs. Seamless integration with complete Allen‑Bradley solutions provides optimized communication and synchronization with surrounding devices, such as robots.

With the capability to add exceptional speed, intelligence and flexibility to a wide variety of motion processes, the iTRAK 5750 Intelligent Track System helps transform the performance of automation systems and usher in a smarter manufacturing future.

For more information, visit rockwellautomation.com.

Meltio Partners with Jupiter Machine Tool

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Meltio has announced a new partnership with  USAF Veteran Owned Jupiter Machine Tool (JMT).

Meltio, Jupiter Machine Tool (JMT), and UMT entered into an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) manufacturing agreement which created a global partnership dedicated to developing and selling Hybrid CNC Machines using Meltio’s wire-laser metal patented Directed Energy Deposition (DED) technology, to support the rapidly growing demand. The American company became an OEM of the Meltio Engine CNC Integration, Made in the USA.

The combined engineering, field service, marketing, and sales efforts of this global team working together, creating a unique Tri-lateral partnership

Jupiter Machine Tool Inc., based in Galesburg (USA), is a world-class total solutions provider for the advanced manufacturing industry. In addition to a complete line of different CNC machine and tooling solutions, and a suite of augmented reality and virtual reality industrial solutions, Jupiter provides engineering support, process improvement, quality control, service support, and production equipment to leading manufacturers in the automotive, aerospace, defense, medical, agricultural, transportation, 3C, and mining, among others.

JMT offers to the market a large portfolio of CNC machines: 5-axis machining, vertical and horizontal machining, turning and milling, bridge and gantry, and machining accessories. Their manufacturing services help different industries with repair and manufacturing processes such as engineering and automation, factory maintenance, legacy overhaul, and third-party spare parts. The industries served in all of the United States are automotive, defense, die and mold, and medical sectors.

This new collaboration with Meltio allows the introduction of the Meltio Engine CNC Integration into a Jupiter Machine Tool portfolio to install a metal additive manufacturing solution in several industries.

Meltio is at the forefront of metal additive manufacturing, pioneering high-performance, affordable solutions utilizing wire-laser metal 3D printing technology. With a focus on reliability, safety, and innovation, Meltio continues to disrupt the industry, delighting customers, partners, and employees alike.

The Meltio Engine CNC Integration can produce complex metal parts from wire feedstock. The ability to produce parts from wire makes operation and material handling very clean, as well as ensuring 100% material efficiency.

For additional technical information regarding this partnership, please see Jupiter Machine Tools Website:  https://jupitermt.com/5-axis-hybrid-cnc-maching/

About Meltio

Meltio, based in Linares (Spain) develops and fabricates high-quality disruptive products aimed at industrial high-profile end customers and R&D organizations, such as universities and research-oriented companies. The current portfolio of metal solutions includes the new Meltio M600 wire-laser metal 3D printer launched worldwide in March 2024, the Meltio M450 wire-laser metal 3D printer, the Meltio Engine Integration, a 3D printing module that turns almost any CNC, robotic arm, or gantry system into a powerful hybrid manufacturing center, and the Meltio Robot Cell, a turn-key robotic solution as a standardization of the integrations with the most competitive lead time.

Fort more information, visit www.meltio3d.com.

About Jupiter Machine Tool

Jupiter Machine Tool Inc., based in Galesburg (USA), is a total solutions provider for the advanced manufacturing industry. In addition to a complete line of different CNC machine tools and a suite of augmented reality and virtual reality industrial solutions, Jupiter provides engineering support, process improvement, quality control, service support, and production equipment to leading manufacturers in the automotive, aerospace, agricultural, transportation, 3C, and resource extraction industries, among others.

Fort more information, visit https://jupitermt.com/.

AZCO Acquires S-Y-M Products

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AZCO Corp announces it has acquired S-Y-M Products Company, a manufacturer and distributor of automatic tube coiling machines. With this move, AZCO has added S-Y-M’s Mini-Winder and other coiling and winding equipment to its already expansive lineup of feeding and cutting machines.

Ideal for assembling and packaging tubing and wire sets, the Mini-Winder increases production output while preventing hand and wrist Injuries. The machine counts the number of revolutions required to complete the coil and then stops. Once the machine stops, the pins on which the coil was wrapped lower, enabling operators to slide the coil into a package. Units are also compact, versatile and cleanroom-compatible, able to produce uniform coils three times faster than conventional methods.

The Mini-Winder naturally complements AZCO’s lineup of feeding, cutting and placing products. For example, the Mini-Winder and AZCO PC-25 Tubing Cutter — an automatic benchtop tubing cutter for processing flexible tubing up to 1 inch — creates a quick, efficient process for cutting and coiling flexible and medical tubing.

About AZCO

AZCO Corp. is an ISO 9001 Certified company established in 1983. They design and manufacture simple and reliable modules and units used to feed, cut and place products. This concept is based on a building block model. Standard modules can be purchased alone or in combination to provide a solution that meets your unique needs, at a competitive price and with quicker delivery.

To learn more, visit: www.azcocorp.com.

Mastercam 2025 Released

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Mastercam has announced the release of Mastercam 2025. This latest version introduces cutting-edge features and enhancements designed to maximize speed, efficiency, and precision in your machining operations, setting a new benchmark in the industry.

Deburr-2D Clamp Export

During the Public Beta, manufacturers worldwide provided valuable feedback that shaped the final product, ensuring that Mastercam 2025 meets the essential demands of users while advancing productivity and sustainability in manufacturing.

New Mastercam Deburr Solution

Introducing Mastercam Deburr for 3-axis, an advanced solution that revolutionizes the deburring process for Mastercam Mill, Mastercam Mill 3D, Mastercam Router, and Mastercam Mill-Turn. Designed to integrate seamlessly with your Mastercam products, this add-on simplifies deburring through automatic edge detection and intuitive controls. Mastercam Deburr allows users to leverage the streamlined deburr cycle in a 3-axis environment without requiring Mastercam Multiaxis, providing faster and more accurate deburring with less manual effort. For users with Mastercam Multiaxis, the familiar simplified controls ensure an easy transition.

Mastercam Deburr transforms the deburring process, saving time and enhancing deburr quality. This solution improves the efficiency and precision of deburring operations, reducing the need for manual intervention and ensuring consistent, high-quality results.

Productivity Enhancements

Mastercam 2025 also introduces finish passes to 2D Dynamic Mill and Area Mill toolpaths. The new Finish Passes page allows users to add high-speed finishing passes along the selected toolpath boundaries, with configurable parameters for feed rate and spindle speed overrides, ensuring a smooth and precise finish.

Advanced Capabilities

Mill-turn support for Y-axis turning is a significant addition in Mastercam 2025, enabling users to create toolpath planes with the correct tool orientation and spindle origin while taking advantage of the latest advances in Y-axis tool technology. The new A-axis contour turning toolpath complements the B-axis contour toolpath, extending support for rotary contour turning and allowing users to machine difficult-to-reach areas with ease.

Performance Boosts

Thread Mill operations in Mastercam 2025 benefit from enhancements such as Speed/Feed Override for Lead In/Out, which provides better control during entry/exit moves, promoting better tool life and more accurate machining of threads. The gradual Lead In/Out feature enhances tool control during engagement and disengagement for Thread Mill operations, while the new Tool Edge Feed Rate calculates feed rates based on the tool’s tangential edge for more precise machining.

Security Improvements

Mastercam 2025 introduces automatic license update notifications for software-based licenses. This feature saves time for users while keeping Mastercam secure with the latest license information and features.

These are just a few of the exciting new features and enhancements in Mastercam 2025. Discover how Mastercam 2025 can transform your machining operations and drive your business forward.

For more information, visit Mastercam 2025.