Curtis Vector Grinds Small Parts From Solid
Curtis Machine Tools has developed the Vector GFS cylindrical grinding machine to cope with components in the 1-2mm diameter range, which are difficult to handle and locate using conventional methods. The Vector GFS (grind from solid) is capable of producing a range of parts from hardened bar in one cycle using a multi-form grinding wheel. The key elements of the design are the stock feed unit, which feeds bar into the work spindle from a magazine located at the rear of the machine, and a puller unit, wherein a servo-driven gripper pulls bar material a precisely programmable distance through the work-spindle chuck.
Optional features available on the Vector GFS include the following: servo-feed slitting saw that permits part cut-off with square pip-free faces, regardless of the wheel approach angle; radially retractable tailstock that swings clear to admit the puller gripper; and slimline in-process diameter gauging using the Marposs Nano Unimar gauge, with a retraction system built into the tailstock body. Additional optional features include: two-point steady that can be programmed for fixed support with retraction for stock advance, or linked to the grinding in-feed in follow-down mode; C axis for non-round features; and work-handling systems based on the standard Vector robot, giving the possibility to execute further operations such as deburring, washing and palletisation.
Optional features available on the Vector GFS include the following: servo-feed slitting saw that permits part cut-off with square pip-free faces, regardless of the wheel approach angle; radially retractable tailstock that swings clear to admit the puller gripper; and slimline in-process diameter gauging using the Marposs Nano Unimar gauge, with a retraction system built into the tailstock body. Additional optional features include: two-point steady that can be programmed for fixed support with retraction for stock advance, or linked to the grinding in-feed in follow-down mode; C axis for non-round features; and work-handling systems based on the standard Vector robot, giving the possibility to execute further operations such as deburring, washing and palletisation.
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