Tuesday, March 8, 2016

Multi Head Spindles : Old technology but still highly productive

Multi Head Spindles typically comprise two generic types as either i) small taper mounted mini gearbox driven units designed to be used with a conventional single spindle CNC machine. Typically useful for auxiliary operations or where the user requires maximum flexibility or used as a single spindle speed increaser or ii) a larger dedicated multi stage precision gearbox driven from a single input shaft through a secondary gearbox before splitting into multiple pitched individual spindles comprise sometimes in groups of spindles in excess of 24 pieces driven at relatively low speeds  less than 1500rpm in parallel. In most cases this type of work is used for high volume production of automotive components with engine head and block being the most common for drilling and tapping of aluminium or cast iron components. The technology has fallen slightly out of favour in recent decades due to the advent of high speed single or twin spindle CNC machines with tool changing capability as a standard machine. This type of next generation standardisation allows automotive customers to have mixed model production and flexibility on the introduction of new component modifications or variants but it does require a higher floor space and possible initial investment in the first phase.

  
  
Picture of modern CNC machining lines using single or twin spindle technology
 
Recent investments of modern CNC machinery in automotive manufacturing plants have typically been of the newer type not utilising dedicated multi head spindles but a substantial installed base remains amongst older plants in OEM's as well in the 1st and 2nd tier supply chain. Kuroda Jena Tec possesses unique design and multi head spindle capability  (From it's Systematic both in terms of design, manufacturing as well as repair of existing older designs of multi head. This includes the ability to reverse engineer critical spare parts that may no longer be available commercially from the original supplier. This becomes extremely important where multi head spindle gearboxes and sub spindles utilise special gear pitches, seals and bronze bushes which are normally of a non-standard type. Kuroda Jena Tec can therefore provide and stock spare parts packages also to support planned or reactive repair work.
 
Systematic Multi Heads 
Examples of new multi head spindles able to be provided by Kuroda Jena Tec

As always in the repair business, capability and speed of response is critical and Kuroda Jena Tec prides itself on the ability to provide its customers with a high standard of reactive service particularly in the automotive sector. Where engineering projects are required perhaps for the planned upgrade to a new component modification, Kuroda Jena Tec also possess the design and manufacturing competence to analyse the engineering component with the customer to design a new spindle head where required, manufacture, assemble, test and assist customer with the on-site integration and machining trials. 

  
Example of emergency breakdown work performed by Kuroda Jena Tec for a leading automotive OEM

For more details on how Kuroda Jena Tec can supply your requirements please visit our websites on www.jena-tec.com  www.jena-tec.co.uk www.jena-tec.de 

Linear Actuators : Repair don't always replace.......



Linear actuators come in many shapes and sizes from low cost units for inaccurate actuation  with an integrated low cost stepper motor through to long length belt drive units for component handling to high force cylinder type actuation for forming and pressing processes. In many cases, customers are unaware of the ability to repair these units which can be achieved cost-effectively via a specialist asset repair organisation such as Kuroda Jena Tec. Using state of the art test rigs and motor/drive configurations, Kuroda Jena Tec can strip most makes and types of actuator to repair, replace and re-assemble back to OEM standards at a fraction of the cost compared to buying new Where damage sustained is excessive meaning repair is not cost effective, Kuroda Jena Tec have a range of carriage and cylinder type ballscrew actuators which may be suitable as a replacement upgrade. For more information, go to www.jena-tec.co.uk or call +44 (0)1623 726010


Friday, March 4, 2016

Modular grinding heads offer versatility to VTL's

Avoiding the need for expensive investment in new grinding machines or excessive costs in subcontract can be realised through the addition of a modular grinding head for use with Vertical Turning Lathe's (VTL's). Kuroda Jena Tec have a specific range of WBSVH units designed for horizontal or vertical applications which with the addition of an inverter system can be easily retrofitted to an existing manual machine tool. Used in a variety of applications ranging from grinding of stellite hard facing or machining honeycomb rings in aerospace blade casings, the addition of a modular unit is a highly cost effective way to add capability to equipment already located in the customers factory. Kuroda Jena Tec also produce units in its TPG series for use with horizontal lathes for both internal and external grinding. Custom designed inverter packages can be supplied as a complete modular retrofit.