RK International offers Melchiorre ELC fine grinding machines

Under a recent agreement, RK International Machine Tools has tapped into Italian grinding machine specialist Melchiorre 60 years' grinding experience.

RK International Machine Tools will be initially focusing its attention on the Melchiorre ELC series (Electronic-Logical Control), which are double-sided machines, best suited for components demanding high levels of parallelism, thickness and flatness. Typically, these machines can grind to tolerances of ±1 micron thickness, flatness 0.5 micron, parallelism 1 micron with surface finishes as fine as Ra < 0.10 micron. The Melchiorre ELC series ranges from the ELC400, which has a maximum component capacity of 119 mm, through to the ELC2000 with capacity to grind parts up to 708 mm diameter. The machines benefit from a strong and rigid C-frame construction that provides the stability to allow the latest super abrasive grinding wheels to be used at their optimum speeds and feeds. The machines can also be supplied with fully automated load/unload capability. Melchiorre's control system uses a closed loop process to precisely control the grinding pressure for superior quality ground surfaces and repeatability. These factors are measured using the in-process gauging system that checks parts during the grinding cycle and stops the machine when the correct size and finish have been achieved. RK International Machine Tools expects the Melchiorre to open up opportunities for the company in manufacturing areas like electro optics, technical ceramics, data storage and semiconductors. While measuring up to hard metal and technical ceramic grinding applications, the machines are also suitable for use across a varied selection of sectors, including automotive (air bag initiators, pumps, transmission parts); aerospace (engine components, hydraulic systems); bearings; mould and die, and the pump and compressor sector.