Super abrasive machine win is largest ever for Holroyd

Holroyd secured the order for the two 5-axis super abrasive machines because of the SAM XL's ability to machine large nozzle guide vanes in hard gas turbine alloys, with substantial time savings compared to more traditional machining methods. "This order - the largest we have ever secured for Edgetek machines - is a major vote of confidence in our super abrasive machining (SAM) technology," commented Tony Bannan, chief operating officer for Precision Technologies Group. "What global manufacturers are discovering with the SAM system is that costly machining processes can be cut dramatically; even if the material is difficult- to-machine nickel- based alloys, as used in aerospace applications, or the powdered metals used for timing gears and sprockets in car engines. In both cases extremely high metal removal rates, at wheel speeds of up to 130m/sec, will be accompanied by excellent surface finish and high dimensional accuracy." The SAM XL machines have the capability to machine components up to ¾ cubic m, at cutting speeds of up to 130m/sec using CBN wheels. Weighing around 22-tonnes each, they incorporate the latest structural materials and construction technologies to satisfy the requirements for high precision, extreme rigidity and enhanced vibration damping when machining hard materials such as aerospace alloys. Providing the highest levels of flexibility in operation, the SAM XLs are full 5-axis machines, each equipped with multi-station auto tool changers, typically 20 stations for wheels and 20 for coolant halos. The design of the machine enables changing of the CBN wheels and coolant halos, simultaneously, in just 25 seconds chip-to-chip, maximising production up-time to the full As part of its full turnkey project management capability PTG Holroyd also supplies all tooling and ancillaries for the SAM XL .