Citation
(2009), "Roadshows to reveal latest machining advances", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 81 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.2009.12781cab.007
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2009, Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Roadshows to reveal latest machining advances
Article Type: Aerospace technology From: Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology: An International Journal, Volume 81, Issue 3
How to boost productivity and achieve faster metal removal rates on difficult-to machine materials like titanium were among the topics explored in a series of roadshows hosted by NCMT and ATI Stellram at six venues around the UK in March and April 2009.
NCMT, Makino’s machining centre agent, and ATI Stellram, the specialists in metal cutting solutions, joined forces for the events (Figure 3), in which they presented the latest techniques for milling titanium alloys.
The roadshows follow a successful collaboration between the two companies, in which they have developed a number of innovative strategies. NCMT and ATI Stellram explained how they have overcome some of the problems typically associated with machining the new generation of speciality metals now being more widely used in key sectors such as aerospace.
The amount of titanium used in modern aircraft is increasing dramatically due to its high strength and low density. For example, in the latest, extra wide body version of the Airbus A350, 14 percent of its weight including engine components is titanium. In the production of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, Lockheed Martin has identified machining of titanium as a significant cost driver.
NCMT’s Engineering Director, Adrian Maughan and ATI Stellram’s Global Aerospace Manager, John Palmer, was among the guest speakers at the presentations, which took place at hotels in Poole, Basildon, Nottingham, Preston, Glasgow, and Belfast.
There was also an opportunity to learn more about Makino’s new MAGT4 horizontal-spindle machining centre, which boasts 1,500 Nm of torque and a 4 × 2 m working area, and the smaller MAGT2, set for launch later this year.
ATI Stellram highlight its new, low-vibration 5230VS chevron milling cutter with 35 indexable inserts that is more stable and smoother under cutting pressure; and its 7792VX high-feed cutter which delivers better machining times and chip removal rates. It will also previewed the launch of a new range of solid carbide milling cutters.
Details available from: ATI Stellram, Tel.: +44 (0) 01886 888000.