Gun-Parts Manufacturer Uses Haas EC-300 Machines

Armi Chiappa, a manufacturer of parts for field guns and air rifles, has upgraded its equipment with CNC machine tools from Haas Automation. 'Compared to a vertical machining centre, the horizontal working area of the Haas EC-300 gives us 25 per cent greater production yield for the type of components we machine, which are often cut from solid billets and usually involve removing large quantities of metal,' said Rino Chiappa, managing director of the company.

The company installed the first of its Haas EC-300 machines in 2007 and subsequently added two more - the first in 2008 and the second a year later. Each component in a new Chiappa creation is designed using computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) before being assembled on screen using 3D simulation. Once satisfied the parts and finished assembly are correct, company designers create toolpaths that are sent directly to the Haas machines.

Chiappa continued: 'We moved to Haas machines because we wanted to create a new production line for lever-action products such as the Winchester [a lever-action rifle]. 'The three Haas EC-300 machines make components that include a complete receiver for a rifle. 'This particular part begins life as a solid block weighing 2.5kg, yet just 0.6kg remains after final machining,' he added. Manufactured from 38NiCrMo4 low-alloy steel, the part is finished with dimensional tolerances of 0.02mm.

Batch sizes are up to 400-off, which means the three four-axis EC-300s work continuously over three shifts to keep up with demand. Other common materials processed include C40 carbon steel, Ergal aluminium alloy and AVP plastic resin. The latter is used to create prototypes. 'As well as reducing cycle times by 25 per cent, we've also extended the life of our cutting tools by 20-25 per cent, thanks to the rigidity of the Haas EC-300s,' said Chiappa.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

What is Class I Division 2?

Image
A Class I Division 2 is a location: (1) In which volatile flammable gases, flammable liquid-produced vapors, or combustible liquid-produced vapors are handled, processed, or used, but in which the liquids, vapors, or gases will normally be confined within closed containers or closed systems from which they can escape only in case of accidental rupture or breakdown of such containers or systems or in case of abnormal operation of equipment, or (2) In which ignitable concentrations of flammable gases, flammable liquid-produced vapors, or combustible liquid-produced vapors are normally prevented by positive mechanical ventilation, and which might become hazardous through failure or abnormal operation of the ventilating equipment. Class I Division 2 Classification Class I Division 2 refers to the ANSI/ISA 12.12.01 standard. This standard was previously UL1604 until UL recommended the newer ANSI/ISA standard be used and that all hazardous location products be certified under this standa
Read more

FUSE SIZING CONSIDERATIONS FOR HIGHER EFFICIENCY MOTORS

Image
When selecting the proper fuse for short circuit protection in motor starting applications, it is important to not only ensure that the fuse will not nuisance open during motor start up times, but also that the fuse will coordinate as required with overload relays. When sizing fuses between 125% and 150% of the motor nameplate current, several advantages, including ease of coordination with an overload device, a smaller disconnect, and increased short circuit protection from a lower fuse rating, can be achieved. However, if sizing at this level prevents the motor from starting, it may then be necessary to increase the fuse ampere rating and it then becomes important to know the NEC sizing limitations. As of June 1, 2016, the US Department of Energy has mandated that newly manufactured electric motors will need to meet NEMA Premium® efficiency standards. As motor efficiencies increase, motor locked rotor currents can also be expected to increase. In addition to this, with across-the-lin
Read more

7/8 16UN Connectors that Provide 600 Volts and 15 Amps

TURCK announces new A-Size 3 and 4-pin 7/8 16UN powerfast™ connectors that provide up to 600 Volts and 15 Amps of power. These IP67 rated connectors provide a modular wiring system designed to handle high current applications for machine power distribution, while providing resistance to vibration commonly associated with conveyors, motors and material handling applications. The cordsets are available with a tray rated, exposed run PVC flexlife ® cable, with or without STOOW rating, and 14 AWG wires that allow you to replace hard wiring with a robust, quick disconnect system that saves the time and money spent installing a conduit system. The A-Size powerfast line offers male and female, straight connectors, standard and custom lengths, and pigtails or extensions. To make the system complete, fully encapsulated mating receptacles, with 1/2”-14 NPT mounting threads are available.
Read more