On display will be the UK premiere of a newly developed 38 mm sliding-head lathe following its unveiling at EMO 2019. In addition, an array of Star’s most popular machines, including the ST-38, SR-38 Type B, SR-32JII Type A, SR-20RIV Type A, SB-20R Type G, SV-20R and SW-12RII, will be on show producing demonstration components.
Each machine will be equipped with the High Frequency Turning (HFT) swarf-control software, which has been developed by Star to increase machine efficiency on difficult-to-chip materials. HFT works on any linear axis on any channel, and is said to be the only chip-breaking software of its kind which is capable of being fitted to both new and older Star models dating back to 1996.
The latest in Industry 4.0 machine monitoring systems from Star will be set up at the event using live data from several machines operating in the showroom. SMOOSS-i is a web-based application which allows the remote monitoring of up to 100 FANUC-controlled CNC machines (with FOCAS software) via PC, tablet or smartphone. The software provides a real-time analysis of machine status, cycle time, part count, production rate, production history and tool life, with the additional benefit of email notifications for any important machine alerts.
Star’s NC Assist programming software will also be on display, with the company’s engineers showing how quickly and efficiently CNC programs can be generated via its conversational interface.
Demonstrating the latest technology in the rapidly-expanding automation market, FANUC will be exhibiting a pick-and-place robotic cell designed to maximise machine utilisation, in conjunction with Renishaw's post-process Equator gauging system. A further range of Star GB’s trusted partners will also be supporting the event, showcasing their latest advances in tooling, software and ancillary equipment.
Star GB’s applications, service and sales team will be on hand to share their technical knowledge, giving existing and prospective users advice on getting the best out of the technology on offer. Visitors will be welcome to discuss future investment plans, technical drawings and the various schemes in place to make upgrading their equipment more affordable, including the Annual Investment Allowance (AIA), a range of finance options and exclusive trade-in offers.
Stephen Totty, Star GB’s managing director, says: “This year our open house will focus on raising awareness of just how valuable Star technology can be to a wide variety of manufacturers. We want to help all businesses maximise productivity, reduce cycle times and increase profitability to keep British manufacturing strong for years to come. A pivotal element of this will be harnessing the full potential of sliding-head machining through education and knowledge sharing.
“The diversity of applications made possible using Star technology continues to grow with more engineers realising that the capabilities of sliding-head machines go far beyond simply turning and drilling,” he continues. “With demand increasing for more complex applications and improved process efficiency, Star will be showcasing new technology to increase automation, lights-out running and process control.”
The event has an open invitation to all types of visitors regardless of whether they’re an existing sliding-head user. Star GB’s Technology Centre is located in Derby alongside the Rolls-Royce factory on Raynesway and is easily accessible from the A52 and M1, with dedicated parking. The event opens at 09:00 and closes at 18:00 each day, with refreshments and lunches provided for all attendees.
To visit the registration page for the open house, click here.
