Mikron's Smart Machining program uses vibration monitoring, thermal control, and remote notification to improve high-speed-machining productivity, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
Shops looking to improve high-speed machining reliability and performance have a new software tool at their disposal.
According to Mikron Bostomatic Corp., Holliston, Mass., its Smart Machining program monitors and records spindle vibrations, automatically compensates for thermal deviations, and includes an operator-support system for optimizing high-speed machining according to workpiece requirements.
Sensors integrated with the spindles of Mikron's high-speed machining center, in addition to software and trackball control, provide subtle, extensive degrees of machining control. In addition, a remote-notification system ensures real-time control from any location for reliable, unattended machining.
"Operators typically feed their programs/input into a machine and, by trial-and-error, hope for the best results," comments Mal Sudhakar, Mikron vice president. "These limitations are eliminated with Smart Machining because machinists access a range of real-time, in-process information."
Two key components of Smart Machining are Intelligent Thermal Control, which adjusts thermal deviation during machining, and the Advanced Process System, which features a built-in vibration sensor in a diagnostic spindle module. The sensor measures vibration levels at the bearings during the milling process, and the diagnostic module records the information. Vibration-limit values can be preset, issuing warnings or even shutdown when levels are exceeded.