PRODUCT SHOWCASE: Methods Showcases 3D Printing and Automation AT IMTS 2016

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Methods Machine Tools, Inc., a leading supplier of innovative precision machine tools, 3D printing technology, automation, and accessories, will demonstrate the latest developments in manufacturing technology in Booth #S-9119 at IMTS 2016 on September 12-17, 2016. From additive manufacturing (3D printing) to automation cells, robots, and advanced CNC machining centers, Methods will have over 40 leading-edge solutions under power at the show.

Methods3D, a newly formed subsidiary of Methods Machine Tools, will exhibit six 3D Systems production machines representing four technologies (SLA, SLS, MJP, and DMP), including the new ProX DMP 320 3D metal printer. 3D Systems machines are the industry’s most advanced printers for printing high-quality metal and plastic parts. Experts will also be on-hand to discuss sample parts, user applications, and the integration of 3D and conventional machining technologies. Methods3D is also inviting all IMTS attendees to participate in an “ultimate 3D” design contest where parts designed by up to 10 winners will be showcased in its booth.

Automation solutions will also be prominently emphasized in the Methods booth, where new multitasking, CNC machining, deburring, and inspection cells, integrated with robots, will be demonstrated adjacent to a Robot Learning Area. Methods continues to expand their leading machine tool automation capabilities by providing profitable, comprehensive high-productivity solutions for manufacturers across North America. Methods provides and integrates all aspects of the automation solution and will have one of the largest displays of Fanuc robots at the show.

CNC machines and EDM machines making a North American debut at IMTS include:

  • Nakamura-Tome NTRX-300 — heavy-duty multitasking turning center with full twin spindles, built-in automation, and advanced software. Methods has also developed the NTRX-300L, with 20-inch longer Z-axis for larger part applications. A new Nakamura “Smart X” operating system will also be demonstrated. The new icon-driven software enables easy, intuitive touch control that is quickly mastered, even by inexperienced operators.
  • Yasda YBM 9150 CNC Jig Borer. This 3-axis machining center provides unprecedented Yasda precision and value for the investment, featuring an ample work envelope with a 61" x 37" x 18" (1,500 x 900 x 450 mm) X-Y-Z axis travel that is ideal for applications such as mold bases.
  • KIWA-Japan Triple H40 — innovative, compact horizontal machining center with a column traverse structure, flexible mounting capability, and machining access for exceptionally long workpieces. The Z-axis moves back and forth on the column, ensuring higher spindle rigidity than quill type spindles.
  • Fanuc D21 MiA, D21 MiB, and D21 LiB series RoboDrills. The well-known tapping/drilling machining centers are the latest generation RoboDrills, with new servo motor-driven ATCs that reduce tool-to-tool speed by almost half, an increased Z-axis stroke, and optional servo door on the front and side.
  • Fanuc CiB Series Wire EDMs — including the all-new larger CiB800 model, offering significantly increased accuracy, speed, and throughput via innovative design efficiencies such as thermal displacement compensation, moving tank design, 3D compensation function, and an auto wire feed system.
  • Feeler HV-1100V — high-performance vertical machining center with dedicated trunnion, 4+1 axis configuration and 350 mm rotary table for increased machining flexibility and aggressive cycle time reductions. A reinforced cross-ribbed column structure and no counter balance weight design significantly improve torsional torque resistance for maximum accuracy and stability.
  •  Feeler U-800 5-axis machining center — a 5-axis gantry style machine designed with a rigid structure to handle heavy loads and is equipped with a HSK-63 12,000 rpm DDS spindle. The trunnion is solidly built by LCM with a 31.5-inch diameter by 24-inch work envelope and a weight capacity of 2,600 pounds.  
  • Feeler SV-350 vertical machining center. Built as an overlapped 3-axis traveling column 3+2 vertical machining center with a dedicated trunnion and 250 mm rotary table, this 30-taper machine is designed with floor space in mind placing all service items to the rear. The trunnion has a 10-inch diameter by 6-inch work envelope and a 10,000 rpm direct-drive spindle.  
  • VisionGauge 700 series — extended travel digital optical comparators with a large work envelope and tilt and rotary axes in a trunnion configuration, ideal for inspecting parts up to 100 pounds.

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