Available exclusively in the UK from Gewefa UK Ltd, Corsham, Wiltshire (www.gewefa.co.uk), is the range of Pibomulti angle heads and speeders, which has been extended with the introduction of three new accessories.

The new energy-efficient spindle speeders, which have been designed specifically for quick-change high-volume tapping operations, can halve cycle times while consuming 90% less power (see below).

The units feature an energy efficient speed-increasing gear transmission, as well as quick-change collet tool-holders that allow tapping with standard tap holders with or without compensation.

Available for two tap ranges — ER16 and ER20 — the two models can operate at a maximum speed of 20,000 and 18,000rev/min respectively. Also new is a ‘micro-engineered’ right-angle drilling head designed for drilling in difficult-to-access areas that are typically found in the manufacture of aerospace, automotive and hydraulic components.

The unit can operate at up to 12,000rev/min and accommodate tools up to 6mm in diameter. Meanwhile, for aerospace applications, Pibomulti has introduced a new range of super-slim tool-holders for machining in tight pockets and enclosed areas. They can be run at speeds up to 10,000rev/min.

Gewefa also represents OTT-Jakob, which has introduced the MkIII version of a unit that checks the force with which a tool is pulled into the spindle taper (the diagnostic data could prevent a fall-off in machining quality or even complete spindle failure).

Subsequent preventative maintenance can be carried out quickly and efficiently, with the Power Check unit being tool-changed and housed within a nominated pocket in the machine’s tool carousel, for the next spindle pull-back reading.

Readings taken at the hand-set can be downloaded via a USB and transferred to a master computer, allowing a comprehensive record of pull-force readings to be maintained throughout a machine’s life-span. The OTT power check is a universal unit that can be used with all types of clamping systems. Two versions are available, one with a pull force of 10-75kN, the other with a pull force of 2-15kN.