Micromachining, cutting where the volume of chips produced with each tool path is very small, is not a high-speed operation in relation to chip load per tooth. Rather, it involves a high spindle speed due to cutter diameter. The part may be physically larger, but details of the part require ultra-small profiles achieved only by micromachining. In other words, micromachining is not limited in scope to only miniature parts.
There are three particularly sensitive areas of the tool holder assembly that can experience process-affecting wear and tear and cause a cycle to change.
Tool holders play a critical role in connecting elements maximizing machining performance, however, several different styles are available and the most suitable one will depend on the operation.
Machining at higher speeds can save time and money, however, increasing the speed also means increasing the inherent risk in the situation. To maximize speed potential, a holistic approach that considers tool, holder, machine and operator is essential.
BIG DAISHOWA is introducing the RBX12 Air Power Spindle, a high-speed air-driven spindle that achieves an impressive variable rotational speed of 100,000-120,000 RPM.
When that inevitable job arises that requires higher RPM output, operators are left with the choice of replacing the machine altogether to gain higher productivity, or looking into an attachment, like a spindle speeder, to close the RPM gap.
The medical industry pushes the limits of precision for machining and tools. The trend toward less-invasive surgery using smaller parts translates to a need to better control the precision and tolerances of micromachining processes.