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Re-engineered multi-spindle lathes speed output
A
Rodmatic product story
Edited by the Manufacturingtalk editorial team
Mar 14, 2008
When asked by customers to either increase output or loose the work overseas, a UK subcontractor had multi-spindle automatic lathes re-engineered to take carbide tooling and raise output 30-50%.
By having its multi-spindle automatic lathes re-engineered so that the machines could use solid carbide tooling instead of high speed steel (HSS), a UK subcontractor reduced cycle times and raised output by 30-50%.
Volume production subcontract machinist Rodmatic Multico operates 38 Wickman multi-spindle machines.
Some of its customers had said that if output would not be increased they would then source parts overseas.
At Rodmatic Multico, works manager Terry O'Sullivan, said: "We started the programme of re-engineering the machines in October and this Wickman 1in-6 machine was the first to be completed and has been on tooling development cutting trails for four months.
Not only have we reduced cycle times that will lead to a rapid payback for the work completed - we now have a more consistent production, with improved machine utilisation, lower overall tool usage and much faster tool changing".
In a series of trials on a re-engineered machine, three components were selected that were usually machined in mild steel and EN8, in batches of 52,000, 30,000 and 10,000.
The trials involved standard Iscar cutting tools, Guhring solid carbide drills and Cleveland cobalt recess blanks and carbide circular form tools.
Tapping used special coated taps.
The reconditioned multi-spindle automatic lathes are running at up to 1,500 rev/min and, said Rodmatic Multico, demonstrated significant improvements in rigidity, repeatability and accuracy from station to station.
Rodmatic Multico's managing director, Brian Steatham, commented: "This is just one element in our continuous improvement policy that is being rigorously pursued.
It has also enabled us to increase output for our fluid power, fastening and automotive related customers that are very keen to maintain local supply giving them better control over delivery, lead time, quality and significantly improved stock control".
* About Rodmatic Multico - Rodmatic Multico produces over 100,000 components/day from its 38 machines at Reading, UK.
There are about 1,500 different part numbers a year.
Following the success of the machining trials, the company is progressively upgrading all the machines and plans to change over tooling to carbide where volumes and return on the investment can be justified.
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