Adjusting boring tools to micron levels of accuracy has historically been a labour-intensive time-consuming process with the potential to scrap high-added-value components.

The Smartbore digital adjustment system from Cornwall-based Rigibore Ltd (www.rigibore.com) allows the precise setting of fine-boring tools, while eliminating the drawbacks associated with conventional tool adjustment.

Company chairman Roger Bassett said: “The ‘conventional method’ of fine adjustment means unclamping the boring tool, making the adjustment, re-clamping and taking a test cut.

“This process requires skilled operators, is time-consuming and is not guaranteed to give a true size adjustment, meaning further test cuts — and possibly scrap parts.

“The design of Rigibore’s Smartbore is such that tools are positively pre-loaded in the opposite direction to the cutting force, allowing accurate adjustment in increments as fine as 0.001mm on diameter with no measurable backlash.

"This rigid design allows operators to ‘plug and play’ by inserting the hand-held Smartbore adjuster, making the incremental diameter change and then removing it for guaranteed ‘right first time’ precision.

“The Smartbore displays the adjustment reading on the LCD, allowing fine tolerances to be set by operators of all skill and experiences levels.”

Smartbore can be applied to a range of tool designs, including precision finishing cartridges and a precision boring head known as the Smartbore Nano.

“With developments such as Smartbore, we are continuing the drive for accuracy and consistency in the manufacturing sector; and together with fully automated closed-loop boring solutions such as Zenith, Rigibore is offering companies a number of key performance benefits — including reduced cycle time, improved part quality and the elimination of scrap.”