Torchmate Unveils The Newly Designed Routermate CNC Router

Reno, NV - Torchmate sets a new benchmark for quality, durability, and affordability with the new Routermate CNC router system. Designed and built by our research and development team, the Routermate was constructed with more rigidity than most machines on the market today. Custom quotes are offered by the sales team on the Routermate system available in sizes from a 2 x 4 foot cutting surface to a 10 x 40 foot cutting surface.2009

Torchmate's R&D team examined the pre-existing design and fabrication of the CNC router pinpointing vulnerable construction points and correcting them in their structural plan. To maintain rigidity the Z-axis bearings are located at the bottom of the axis plate, and do not move away from the material as the Zaxis moves the traveling distance of 8.5 inches. The standard version of the Routermate is equipped with stepper motors. Servos, however, are available as an option. All drive systems are completely gear driven, with the exception of the Z-axis that is a re-circulating ball screw drive. The Y and Z axes have 24 bearings each for linear rigidity, and the X-axis runs on 16 cam follower type bearings.

These CNC router tables are available as a complete bolt together kit, or fully assembled Y and Z axes can be purchased separately while the consumer builds his own table. X axis rails can be purchased separately for easy mounting of the gantry to the table. The Routermate gantry comes from the factory fully assembled.

The Routermate's table is adjustable in height from 6 inches to 34 inches. In addition to this vertical adjustability each of the table cross slat brackets is adjustable to the left and right, allowing side clamping of larger parts. The cross slats can also be mounted vertically by adjusting the end brackets. This can be used to reduce deflection when used with heavier materials. The table has additional independent vertical stops to allow one person alone to change the height quickly and securely. All the surfaces of the cross brackets are T-slotted for clamping work on any surface. Also, the Routermate's Z-axis can easily accept various attachments with four mounting holes on a three quarter inch thick retractable main plate.

Routermate accessories and software provide an innovative way of minimizing debris and dust, producing superior surface finishes, and achieving accurate cuts. The dust collection option includes ducting and a vinyl skirt for containing fragments. The spray mist coolant system is useful when cutting material that heats up and can benefit from lubrication using a vegetable based water soluble oil. Other attachments include a drilling and tapping system, and the ability to add a plasma cutter to the Routermate. Many software options are available for the Routermate. Our Routermate Driver Software is capable of starting and stopping the router motor, coolant, and dust collection systems for a fully automated process.

http://www.machinetoolsonline.com/article.mvc/Torchmate-Unveils-The-Newly-Designed-0001

Denford compact CNC routers available from Concentric Asia Pacific

Denford routers are the preferred manufacturing centre for the F1 in schools technology challenge, a high school competition created by not-for-profit organisation Re-Engineering Australia Foundation involving more than 35,000 students across the nation. Students as young as 13 are designing futuristic racers in CATIA then machining them in Denford routers.

Made in England, the Denford routers are quiet, fast and classroom-friendly which makes them suitable for universities, TAFEs, schools and training centres. At the same time they are suitable for industry. Their high performance motors are capable of continuous machining in a range of materials for jobs like prototyping of finished products, moulds, low volume production runs leaving larger CNC machines for more complex parts or bigger production runs.

The range Denford compact CNC routers include:

COMPACT 1000/1000 PRO, a compact 3 axis CNC Router with totally enclosed interlocking guard, is suitable for cutting a range of resistant materials such as hard and soft wood, plastic, modeling foam, acrylic, PCB's and prototyping materials. In addition, the Compact 1000 Pro can cut non-ferrous metals.

2600/2600 PRO, a large capacity 3 axis CNC Router with totally enclosed interlocking guard, suitable, is suitable for cutting a range of resistant materials such as hard and soft wood, plastic, modelling foam, acrylic, PCB's and prototyping materials. In addition, the 2600 Pro can cut non-ferrous metals.

PCB manufacturer/engraver, an easy to use 3 axis CNC PCB and engraving machine with totally-enclosed guarding. The PCB engraver is supplied with operating software incorporating Gerber and DXF import facilities suitable for cutting and engraving a range of resistant materials, including copper board, plastic and acrylic.

Turn 270 CNC Lathe, a compact 2 axis CNC Lathe with totally enclosed high-visibility interlocking guard. Programmable spindle speeds and feedrates make the Turn 270 suitable for cutting a range of resistant materials such as wax, plastic, acrylic, free cutting alloys, aluminium and steel.

VMC 1300 CNC milling machine, a 3 axis CNC milling machine available either floor standing or for bench mounting, with totally enclosed high visibility interlocking guard. Programmable spindle speeds and feedrates make the VMC 1300 suitable for cutting a range of resistant materials such as wax, plastic, acrylic, free cutting alloys, aluminium and steel.
http://www.ferret.com.au/c/Concentric-Asia-Pacific/Denford-compact-CNC-routers-available-from-Concentric-Asia-Pacific-n837468

Techno CNC Routers Introduce New Pro Series CNC Router, Specifically Produced For Panel Process Manufacturing

New Hyde Park, NY - Techno, Inc. CNC Routers announced the introduction of the Pro Series CNC Router to their current product line of CNC machining solutions. Designed to meet the high demands of panel process manufacturing, the Pro Series is constructed of large heavy tubing that is both welded and stress-relieved, the perfect foundation for Techno's precision drive system. Also comprised of precision ball screw drives on all three axes, THK rails and bearings, high-speed closed-loop servomotor and drives, the Pro Series drive system ensures minimal maintenance, machine longevity and superior machine performance.

Techno's New Pro Series is available in a variety of standard sizes ranging from 4 ft x 8 ft through 6 ft x 20 ft. "We are welcoming special sizes and customization requests with this model because we understand that size and usage vary from shop to shop," says CNC Router Sales Manager, Roy Valentine. "The Pro Series machine can be equipped with a variety of spindle options including automatic tool changer, collet spindles, drill banks, or multi-spindle setup for high volume part production. Multiple zone vacuum table, reverse engineering lasers, and 4th axis rotary tables are just some of the additional accessories compatible with this new machine."

Additionally, the New Pro Series' machine features a CNC Servo G-Code Interface that is both easy to learn and operate. This Windows-based interface is a fully comprehensive CNC program that includes unique high-end features such as toolpath preview with viewing tools and adjustable screens, built in G-Code editor, machine speed and spindle rpm override, X/Y axis orientation swapping, program skip ahead (in case of tool breakage), built in basic nesting, and production logging.

http://www.toolingonline.com/article.mvc/Techno-CNC-Routers-Introduce-New-Pro-Series-0001?VNETCOOKIE=NO

An Introduction to CNC Routers and More

In these down economic times, many fabrication companies are turning towards a technology known as CNC (Computer Numerical Control) routing. This technological transition has made CNC router operators one of the most in demand careers in America. But what exactly is a CNC router, who uses them, and what does it take to become an operator?

What is a CNC Router?

By definition, a CNC router is a machine-guided cutting or milling tool which can precisely and accurately carve materials in all three dimensions. The device does so by leveraging the power of a computer to position a tiny tool accurately along three different axes while simultaneously spinning that tool at upwards of 20,000 revolutions per minute. Thanks to the computer backing the system, a CNC router is thus capable of not only crafting intricate works such as fine wooden mantel pieces, but also highly valued orthopedic supplies.

Common materials used in CNC routers include, but are not limited to, woods, metals, and plastics. Each material has its own special type of CNC router, and thus has its own set of special operating instructions. CNC wood routers, for instance, typically have smaller tool tips and spin faster than their steel counterparts.

CNC routers also have other differences. For instance, some have multiple milling tips or routing tools. Some routers hold their materials to the work bench with clamps, others special pods which hold materials via suction, and others have the entire workbench as a suction device. Some use measurements in the American system; others rely on the metric system. The variety between devices is typically indicative of a specialized work need.

Programming the Router

The strength of the CNC router lies in its computer. Once a machine is properly programmed for the task at hand, the operation is a largely hands off experience. Programming the machine is by no means an easy task, requiring exacting knowledge of the material and its dimensions not to mention a wealth of experience with what cuts work well and what cuts are likely to destroy the material. Once you have a program set, a loaded router can continue to churn out exact copies of the original piece, which can increase the output of an operation equipped with a CNC router.

Education and Job Opportunities

Because operating a CNC router requires the ability to program the device, becoming a CNC router operator is not the same as taking an untrained manufacturing job. In modern terms, a CNC router operator is as much a knowledge-based job as it is skills-based, and it's this educational requirement that has made being a router operator an increasingly popular job despite the recent down economic times.

The NPR radio show "All Things Considered" addressed this in a recent segment regarding the economic devastation in Elkhart, Indiana following the collapse of the recreational vehicle trade. The local community college has taken to educating future CNC router operators, a skill set which is asked for by over 40% of the facilities in the area which make everything from high tech surgical tools to replacement hips.

In addition to education, many people are turning towards becoming CNC router operators because, as the job requires the combination of both knowledge and location, it's a relatively secure job. The operator has already made the investment in their own future, which appeals to companies, and having a highly skilled workforce makes a job harder to ship overseas. Combining this with the sheer variety of applications which a CNC router is ideal for has created a marketplace for CNC operators in many places nationwide.

http://ezinearticles.com/?An-Introduction-to-CNC-Routers-and-More&id=2179774

CNC routers designed for heavy machining duties

Latest CNC routers are described as true 'heavyweights' by the builder who says they offer minimal maintenance and maximum machine performance and longevity and infinite 'look ahead' contouring.

Techno introduces the new Premium Class of CNC routers.

This new family of routers is a true heavyweight with the 59in x 96in travel unit weighing in at over 6000 lb.

These new CNC routers feature welded and stress relieved all steel construction plus THK rails, bearings and ball screws on all three axes to guarantee minimal maintenance and maximum machine performance and longevity.

They feature brushless closed loop servomotors for optimal performance, speed and accuracy.

These routers also feature infinite lock ahead high speed contouring to take advantage of the brushless servo capabilities.

This new router series comes standard with a heavy T-slot table and is also available with a vacuum table option that still allows the use of the T-slots.

This provides the flexibility of both clamping and vacuum hold down as the situation might require.

The Premium Class line of CNC Routers is ideal for the heaviest and most demanding production routing of plastics, wood, aluminum, composites, etc,.

Beyond the heavy-duty frame and design, the new Premium Class line comes standard with Techno's easy to use Windows PC based interface for communicating with any CAD/CAM or sign making software that outputs industry standard GCODE.

Most major functions are just one-click away with the Techno CNC Interface, including: a built-in GCODE editor, toolpath preview, production logging and reporting and free lifetime software updates via the Internet to name a few.

The Premium Class is available in 4-standard sizes of 59in x 50in, 59in x 96in, 59in x 120in and 59in x 144in with special sizes available upon request.

The brochure, identified as H859 is available free upon request from Techno, 2101 Jericho Turnpike, New Hyde Park, New York 11042-5416.

Phone: 800-819-3366.

Fax: 516-358-2576.

For technical questions or applications support, please contact Roy Valentine, CNC Sales Manager.

http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/toi/toi104.html

Purdue offering two summer electric guitar-making workshops

The High School Guitar Workshop will be held June 23-26 and is open to any student entering 10th, 11th or 12th grades. Students will be introduced to various advanced manufacturing technologies used in the guitar-making process and taught in the College of Technology. No previous experience with woodworking or manufacturing tools is necessary.

Woodworking experience is not required to attend Purdue's summer electric guitar making workshop. (File Photo)

Students will stay in residence halls and eat in campus dining halls during the week. They also will have the opportunity to explore the campus during the evenings to get a taste of college life at Purdue, said workshop director Mark French, an assistant professor of mechanical engineering technology.

The Society of Manufacturing Engineers Education Foundation and the D’Addario Music Foundation are sponsoring the workshop.

The $650 registration fee includes lodging, meals, all materials needed to complete one guitar, a padded carrying bag and amplifier, and a workshop T-shirt. Those interested in signing up for the high school workshop can go to http://metalsound.tech.purdue.edu/ to download a flier and registration form. Questions about registration can be directed to Vickie Brewer in the Department of Mechanical Engineering Technology at (765) 494-9099, vbrewer@purdue.edu

The second workshop is the Purdue Guitar Workshop from July 6-10. It will feature industry professionals who will teach participants how to craft, engineer and customize their own solid-body electric guitar. Experts from Purdue, Taylor Guitars and Fender Guitars will be in attendance.

The class will meet daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Knoy Hall of Technology, Room 106, and Michael Golden Labs, rooms 1208 and B217. Workshop participants will learn the practical and technical aspects of making guitars. The class is not for credit, and no previous experience with guitar making is necessary.

French said participants will utilize the latest in advanced manufacturing equipment, such as a CNC laser cutter and CNC router, in addition to sanders and saw planers.

The cost for the workshop is $1,295, which includes all materials and supplies. Purdue employees can receive a $150 discount. Attendees will receive a complete kit of materials, including a guitar body and neck made with figured and exotic woods and with most of the machining already completed. Participants will then be able to tailor the final shape of the body and neck, as well as add other custom touches, such as paint.

http://www.lafayette-online.com/community/2009/02/purdue-electric-guitar-making/

Rapid and digital manufacturing services for London creatives

Supported by ERDF, Communities and Local Government, LDA and City Fringe Partnership, Metropolitan Works provides creative practitioners and manufacturers access to digital technology previously only available in industry. It also offers access to traditional manufacturing facilities, CAD training and general creative business and technical advice.

Matthew Lewis, Manager of Metropolitan Works, said: ““The new Centre is extraordinary in both its design and purpose. It is the only industrial resource in the middle of London, combining a bureau service, CAD training, and superb Pay and Go project workspace.

“Metropolitan Works is ultimately modern, understanding the light, flexible, and multidisciplinary working practices of contemporary architecture and design companies. It is the place for realising ideas.”

The building was conceived as a simple metal box to echo some of the materials used in the Centre and its semi-industrial nature. Built using modern methods of construction, with three of the four storeys manufactured off site, perforated aluminium panels envelope the building to dramatic effect. On the ground floor level, a specially commissioned frieze designed by Tom Price, has been laser cut out of the panels to give the structure a sense of movement and life.

The centre incorporates a number of sustainability features; a ‘green’ sedum roof provides high levels of insulation, minimises rainwater run-off and offers ecological benefits. Rainwater is harvested for toilet flushing and a roof-mounted solar panel contributes to the hot water provision.

Facilities in the new 1,100sqm centre include a double height machine hall to accommodate London’s largest 5-axis CNC router and 5-axis water-jet cutter, available as a bureau service. There will also be Pay and Go traditional workshops and (commercially licensed) CAD offices. A CAD training suite, refectory and conference room are located on the second floor, with open plan office accommodation for staff and research fellows on the top floor.

The opening of the building will mark the completion of a three year capital project. In addition to the 5 Axis Router and Water Cutter, Metropolitan Works offers 3D printing, SLS (Selective Laser Sintering) in nylon, DMLS (Direct Metal Laser Sintering) in stainless steel and nickel alloy and Perfactory rapid prototyping in castable resin and three different 3D scanning technologies.

http://www.engineeringcapacity.com/archive101/2009/january/industry_news/rapid_and_digital_manufacturing_services_for_london_creatives