In order to meet a growing demand for special carbide inserts, US-based AB Tools Inc asked grinding-machine manufacturer Anca (
www.anca.com) to provide a solution that could: auto-load and grind a range of AB Tools’ ‘shear hog’ inserts; perform grinding operations in one set-up; and meet the customer’s cycle time requirements.
Anca’s custom solutions engineering team delivered an enhancement to the Anca MX7 tool grinder with Robomate that included a modification to the loading system, with custom pallets to suit the inserts (each pallet can hold up to 442 inserts).
There were also modifications to the robot gripper head, plus a software interface that allows for the adjustment of specified insert parameters. These include corner radius, periphery relief angle and rake face dimensions. Furthermore, digitising software verifies the insert orientation prior to grinding.
Anca product manager Simon Richardson said: “Developing new technology that directly addresses customers’ requirements — hopefully helping them to get ahead of their competition — benefits everyone.
Our founders are often heard reflecting that some of our greatest product breakthroughs have originated from custom
projects.”