Powerful DROs offer wide range of functions

Edited by the Manufacturingtalk editorial team Feb 28, 2002

Powerful DROs feature user-friendly functionality: while the DRO 100 features zero reset, absolute/ incremental display, radius and diameter conversion as well other data are displayed.

With a trio of digital readouts on show, Acu-Rite (GB) will be demonstrating how it can satisfy most metalcutting needs with the series 100, 200 and 300 one- to three-axis DROs being displayed.

From the compact one-/two-axis series 100, through to the top-of-the-range 300M and 300T one- to six-axis vision readouts, Acu-Rite systems are characterised by powerful yet user-friendly functionality.

For example, while the DRO 100 features zero reset, absolute/incremental display, radius and diameter conversion as well as Inch/metric conversion, shrinkage/expansion multiplier, auto scale resolution sensing and automatic linear error compensation, it also boasts functions more often associated with higher specification systems.

With the Position-Trac (trade mark) distance encoded reference marks on Acu-Rite glass linear encoders (as standard, available in varying lengths and with resolutions from 0.5 to 10 microns), users are provided with accurate and fast location of workpiece absolute zero.

Available in several versions, the Acu-Rite DRO 200's capability to substantially increase productivity levels is ensured by the use of powerful features to suit the task in hand: * Milling - full and partial bolt hole calculations, centreline calculation, single tool diameter compensation and electronic edge finder input; * Grinding - radius/diameter conversion, preset capability and near zero warning; * Turning - radius/diameter conversion, nine-tool offset library, axis lock function for tool offset qualification; and * EDM - When in EDM mode, current position, maximum depth reached and the target depth are shown simultaneously on the three-axis displays.

A dwell function delays the retract for a period of time or until spark out occurs to produce a better finish, and a reverse fault detection function will help to prevent the electrode from creeping up out of the bath during a burn cycle.

Position-Trac functionality is also provided as standard on the series 200, as it is on the VRO 300 series which has built a reputation in the milling and turning markets (300M and 300T, respectively) through a series of features that set this vision system apart from its competitors.

For instance, program input of up to 999 blocks can be by teach/learn or by direct entry from drawing, with relevant tools being held in a 99-tool library.

Also, the systems boast canned functions embracing tool selection and bolt hole routines, for example.

And there is a calculator with four arithmetical and trigonometric functions.

MACH 2002 - NEC, Birmingham - April 29 - May 3.

Hall: 5.

Stand: 5348.