Says Duncan Thomson, ANCA product manager: “The LaserpPlus technology on our high performing EDGe machine is helping our customers achieve much better accuracy and reduce waste. It ensures all tools in a batch stay within target tolerances, regardless of external influences, such as wheel (electrode) wear or machine growth due to thermal variation. The result is improved tool consistency, quality and reduced scrap tools.”
Note: Video shows LaserPlus at work on an MX7 machine, by way of demonstration
First introduced on its ANCA’s tool grinding machines, the LaserPlus system allows newly ground tools to be automatically measured in the machine using a non-contact Blum laser system. Then if required, compensation is automatically applied to subsequent tools in the batch.
Adds Duncan: “For customers manufacturing PCD cutting tools, the laser technology provides real value, due to the unique challenges involved with the process of electro-discharge grinding (EDG).
“Without touching the PCD cutting edge, LaserPlus is able to measure a cutting tool feature before the final erosion pass. By doing this, the technology can identify any variation; which may, for example, be the result of thermal drift or wear on the electrode; from the nominal size and account for this in the final finishing pass. The result is that the finished tool geometry is guaranteed to be on size.”
EDGe machines have one wheel spindle that carries two wheel packs, making both erosion and grinding operations possible. ANCA’s EDGe machine includes its proprietary eSpark generator for optimal PCD erosion results. The addition of the LaserPlus further enhances the machines capabilities.
