Sliding-head lathe manufacturer Star Micronics GB Ltd is to hold an Open House event from 8 to 10 October at its Technology Centre in Derby.

Visitors from around the UK and Ireland will gain an insight into Star sliding-head technology, with a special focus on automation and Industry 4.0 solutions.

As well as the UK premiere of a brand new 38mm sliding-head lathe after its world-wide launch at EMO 2019, the Open House will also see a range of Star’s machines — including the ST-38, SR-38 Type B, SR-32JII Type A, SR-20RIV Type A, SB-20R Type G, SV-20R and SW-12RII — producing components.

Each machine will be equipped with High Frequency Turning (HFT) swarf control software, developed by Star to increase machine efficiency on difficult-to-chip materials. HFT works on any linear axis and can be fitted to both new and older Star models (dating back to 1996).

The latest in Industry 4.0 machine-monitoring systems from Star will be set up at the event, using live data from several machines operating in the showroom.

SMOOSS-i is a ‘powerful’ Web-based application that allows the remote monitoring of up to 100 Fanuc-controlled CNC machines (with FOCAS software) via PC, tablet or smartphone.

The software provides a real-time analysis of machine status, cycle time, part count, production rate, production history and tool life, with the additional benefit of e-mail notifications for any important machine alerts.

NC Assist programming software will also be on display, with Star’s engineers showing how quickly and efficiently CNC programs can be generated via its simple conversational interface.

Demonstrating the latest technology in the rapidly expanding automation market, Fanuc will be exhibiting a pick-and-place robotic cell in conjunction with Renishaw’s post-process Equator gauging system.

Other Star GB partners will also be supporting the event, showcasing their latest advances in tooling, software and ancillary equipment.

Visitors will be welcome to discuss their investment plans, technical drawings and the various schemes in place to make upgrading their equipment more affordable — including the Annual Investment Allowance, a range of finance options and exclusive trade-in offers.

Star GB’s managing director, Stephen Totty, said: “This year, our Open House will focus on raising awareness of just how valuable Star technology can be to a wide variety of manufacturing companies.

“We want to help all companies maximise productivity, reduce cycle times and increase profitability to keep British manufacturing strong for years to come.

"A pivotal element of this will be harnessing the full potential of sliding-head machining through education and knowledge sharing.

"The diversity of applications made possible using Star technology continues to grow, with more engineers realising that the capabilities of sliding-head machines go far beyond simply turning and drilling.

"With demand increasing for more complex applications and improved process efficiency, Star will be showcasing new technology to increase automation, ‘lights out’ running and process control.”

The event opens at 9am and closes at 6pm each day, with refreshments and lunches provided. Those wishing to attend can register online via the company’s Web site (www.stargb.com/open), by email () or by telephone (01332 864455).