Heimatec speed increasers are now available in a complete range designed for popular live tool lathes and Swiss-style machines, offering gear ratios of 1:2, 1:3 and 1:4 with maximum speeds of 48,000 rpm. Design configurations include straight, offset, 90 degree and universal adjustable, while tools can be produced with external or internal coolant. Mounting options include BMT, Swiss-style machine and VDI interfaces to suit a wide range of machine tool setups.

With the growth of medical and other high-precision, high-volume manufacturing and the use of Swiss-style machines, speed increasers have become vital to the machine tool industry. As components get smaller, the cutting tools required also get smaller, necessitating higher rpm to provide maximum performance. Heimatec speeders for Citizen, Tsugami and Star machines are in stock at Platinum Tooling.

Speed increasers for BMT turrets including Nakamura, Miyano, DN Solutions and Haas are also in stock. Additional models are available from factory inventory with short lead times. Engineered for efficiency and precision with the highest quality components, these tools deliver increased productivity, long service life and cost savings for the busy machine shop or OEM production department.

About Platinum Tooling

Platinum Tooling Technologies, Inc. in Prospect Heights, IL, near Chicago, serves its growing North American customer base with an extensive inventory of machine tool accessories. Its experienced staff provides the most innovative tooling and technology. Platinum Tooling Technologies, Inc. serves the auto, aero, medical, woodworking, composites and other industries, as well as an ever-increasing number of machine tool OEMs, through its network of manufacturers’ representatives. Platinum Tooling is the importer of Heimatec live tools and angle heads, Henninger speeders for milling, Tecnicrafts Swiss-type collets and guide bushings, Hommel + Keller QUICK knurling and marking tools and REV broaching tools in North America.

About Palmgren

Since 1919, the company has been the top brand for manufacturing metalworking machinery for professionals and first-time machinists. The company was founded by Clarence Palmgren, who was acclaimed for his achievements and contributions to the metalworking industry through his innovative designs and patents. He is credited with designing and manufacturing the first machine vises, cross slide, and rotary tables that significantly increased efficiency and productivity with metalworking manufacturers worldwide.

Palmgren’s early work created the foundation of innovation and quality that the Palmgren brand is built upon and follows today. So, it is no surprise that Palmgren continues to be a market leader not only with our vises and positioning tables but across our whole expanded metalworking product offering.

The company today delivers tools for the generations and solutions that solve the needs of the metalworking industry. Recognizing the value of the brand and the need for retailer supplier consolidation, C.H. Hanson acquired Palmgren Steel Products in October 2013. Professionals from all industries throughout the world rely on Palmgren. We are committed to helping our users Embrace the Work through our products and exceptional service at every step of every business relationship.

By automatically adjusting airflow CFM volume to match the cutting load, the patented double turbine-driven mechanism in Air Turbine Live Tools® assures consistent high-rated speed during the cutting process and enables 6 to 10 X faster production cycles on any lathe.

This governed mechanism eliminates the challenges posed by nominal high-speed products which drop speed in cut on the toolpath. The lack of consistent high speed causes tool breakage and sub-optimal or inconsistent finished surface quality. By contrast, Air Turbine Live Tools® optimize small tool performance and enhance surface finish while cutting down production time exponentially.

Air Turbine Live Tools® direct drive system has just two moving parts and air-cooled precision bearings. The system does not generate heat or burnout like electro-spindles. In continuous 24/7 micro-machining operations, Air Turbine Live Tools® stay cool, maintain zero thermal growth, and deliver consistent 2-micron accuracy.

Installation is simple. Users can connect dry 90 psi (6.2 bar) compressed air and activate with an M Code or Solenoid. This is unlike traditional technologies with complex hour-long set-ups involving control boxes, wiring, and lubrication.

The 822CX and 825CX dimensions fit most holders. Air Turbine Live Tools® are operational within moments of being placed into a tool holder. Smaller side air feed units are also available for added flexibility in machines with tight dimensions, such as Cincom and Star.

Everything, including a filter extractor and hose, is included in a case with Air Turbine Live Tools®. Ultra Precision ER8 and ER11 UP Rego-Fix ER collet systems are standard on Air Turbine Live Tools® and h7 bodies assure precision.

Rather than changing the speed of the traditional electro-spindle for different cutting tools, the operator of fixed high-speed Air Turbine Live Tools® simply adjusts the rate of advance programmed to achieve the desired Surface Feed per Minute for any tool. No lengthy adjustment in a control box is needed.

Air Turbine Live Tools® are ideal for applications in industries where production pressure, precision, and finish quality are critical, such as electronics, medical, optical, implant, and food production. With its sealed design, this oil-free live tool is ideal for cleanrooms, emitting no oil mist that could contaminate parts or the workspace, and remaining unaffected by machine coolant.

Most notably the 822CX and 825CX at 60,000 RPM and 80,000 RPM change the economics of lathe operations with small tools combining affordability with material reduction in cost per part produced. Air Turbine Live Tools® also require no maintenance, eliminating downtime, and operate without lubrication and associated costs.

Setting a new benchmark in affordability, these tools are priced at just one-third or less of the cost of traditional live tools.

The 822CX and 825CX are best sellers in an extensive range of Air Turbine Live Tools® available with Outside Diameters from 19.5 mm to 40 mm to fit tool holders on all types of lathes. At fixed governed speeds from 40,000 to 80,000 RPM, power ratings are available from 0.15 HP (0.11 kW) in the mini 800 Series to 0.8 HP (0.6 kW) in larger units.

The revolutionary 822CX and 825CX were developed with input from the Swiss industry leader, Tornos of Moutier, Switzerland, the respected pioneer in sliding head lathe manufacturing for over a century.

The company’s expertise continues to be applied to provide innovative high-speed solutions for the manufacturing industry across the world.

About Air Turbine Technology Inc.

Air Turbine Technology Inc. since 1988 has invented, patented, and proven a range of revolutionary high-speed spindles, live tools, motor mounts, and hand tools. Air Turbine Tools, Motors, and Spindles® are high-speed pneumatic tools used by manufacturers for cutting, grinding, engraving, drilling, or finishing materials in industrial processes, delivering superior performance in applications that demand high-speed, precision, and reliability at 25,000 to 90,000 RPM with power to 1.4HP. This new generation of products increases airflow volume to the turbine to match cutting load, ensuring consistent high speed without sacrificing power.

Air Turbine Spindles and Motors® operate reliably without generating heat to affect precision at 2 micron and have no duty cycle limitations.

The HTE-1600W sets a new standard in bore finishing for the Firearms and Defense, Medical, Mining, and Energy industries. This innovative machine features an all-electric design, ensuring ease of maintenance and up to 90% efficiency. The HTE-1600W excels in processing parts with IDs from 4-20 mm and lengths up to 1,500 mm, delivering ideal bore geometry and surface finish.

At the heart of the HTE-1600W is advanced technology that drives superior performance. Its active 3-axis function control manages stroke positions, motion control, stone feed, spindle speed, and cutting pressure, resulting in high accuracy and superior bore geometry. The machine offers 100% process control with tool overload protection, preventing tool breakage and ensuring consistent results.

Compared to traditional bore lapping methods, the HTE-1600W offers significant advantages. It substantially reduces cycle time, decreasing processing time compared to manual bore lapping. The machine’s stroke repeatability within 0.006 in (0.15 mm) ensures consistent and precise honing results. A size lock system with stone wear compensation maintains accuracy over time and reduces the need for frequent adjustments.

The HTE-1600W’s design incorporates a one-piece base for improved performance and cost-effectiveness. Additionally, the machine’s traveling steady rest provides additional support for the tooling used with long workpieces, enhancing versatility.

The machine is compatible with Sunnen MMT and LBT tools, offering flexibility for various small, long diameter bore applications.

Sunnen’s commitment to quality is evident in the HTE-1600W’s 3-year warranty. The machine interface is available in 13 languages, enhancing its usability for operators worldwide. Additional features include a dual filtration system for clean honing fluid and improved part quality, and the ability to hone for time, number of strokes, or to a programmed diameter, offering flexibility to meet various part requirements.

About Sunnen Products Company

Sunnen Products Company, a global leader in precision manufacturing for over a century, has established itself as a premier provider in the creation, sizing, and finishing of machined surfaces. Headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, Sunnen is a “total solutions provider,” manufacturing everything from machinery and abrasives to precision bore gages and customized coolants. This comprehensive approach enables Sunnen to deliver turnkey honing solutions that encompass cutting-edge equipment, tooling, consumables, and coolants. The company’s expertise spans a diverse range of industries, including aerospace, automotive, energy, hydraulics, medical, firearms & defense, and tool & die, showcasing its versatility and commitment to innovation. Sunnen’s dedication to quality is evident in its products, which exemplify the company’s focus on high efficiency, precision, and advanced technology. With a worldwide presence and a track record of building thousands of honing machines, Sunnen continues to drive innovation in bore sizing and finishing, providing tailored solutions to meet the exacting demands of modern manufacturing across diverse sectors.

About Sheffield Forgemasters

• • Sheffield Forgemasters specialises in the design and manufacture of high-integrity forgings and castings for the world’s most complex engineering challenges
  • The company operates a fully integrated end-to-end manufacturing process, including steel-making, forge, foundry, machining and testing, from a single site in Sheffield.
  • Some of the largest bespoke engineered steel products in the world are produced with capacity for castings of up to 350 tonnes and forgings of up to 200 tonnes finished weight.
  • Global markets include Defence, Civil Nuclear, Offshore, Power Generation, Renewables, Steel Plant, Steel Processing and Ingot & Bar.
  • The company was acquired in August 2021 by the Ministry of Defence who intend to make significant investments to re-capitalise defence-critical plant and equipment on site.

Producing guide bushings since 1935, Dunner has the know-how to manufacture guide bushings in different bore profiles, guide lengths and insert material. In addition, silicone sealants can be applied to limit chip penetration. All guide bushings are available in standard (15 microns or less), ultra-precision (5 microns or less) and ultimate ultra-precision (2 microns or less).

The company manufacturers bronze, ceramic and titane (Meehanite®) guide bushings for customer machining needs. All guide bushings are ready for machine use with finished internal surfaces and geometries designed to offer the best result with nominal size material.

Manufactured from a special cast iron, titane/Meehanite® offers an excellent compromise between the coefficient of friction and wear. Suitable for stainless steel, titanium and other materials with a tendency to “load up,” it minimizes part marking and is used extensively in medical part production.

Using high-tech ceramic, Ceramic/NewSurf® offers one of the lowest friction coefficients on the market. Specifically designed for titanium, stainless steel and other difficult materials, these bushings are often used for medical implants, in particular when the tightest production tolerances are required.

Designed with steel body and bronze insert for durability, the bronze guide bushing is the most cost-effective material to prevent marking. Best suited for non-medical parts production, the guide bushing is suitable for all non-copper materials and clamping workpiece material up to h8 tolerance.

The Dunner DunnAir Adaptive Guide Bushing System is designed to replace the original guide bushing supplied by the machine builder. The easy-to-use system adds flexibility and consistency to the machining process. With this system, the need for ground stock is eliminated. DunnAir is self-adjusting and consistent and offers four different positions for flexibility and control. In addition, the bushing has a clamping range of 0.5 mm (0.020”) to accommodate material variance, as well as eliminate downtime. Lastly, DunnAir is CNC controlled, so customers can choose the position based on the application.

About Platinum Tooling

Platinum Tooling Technologies, Inc. in Prospect Heights, IL, near Chicago, serves its growing North American customer base with an extensive inventory of machine tool accessories. Its experienced staff is dedicated to providing the most innovative tooling and technology. Platinum Tooling Technologies, Inc. serves the auto, aero, medical, woodworking, composites and other industries, as well as an ever-increasing number of machine tool OEMs, through its network of manufacturers’ representatives. Platinum Tooling is the importer of Heimatec, Henninger, Tecnicrafts, Hommel + Keller QUICK tools and REV broaching tools in North America.  In addition, Platinum Tooling represents Rineck Shrink Fit Tooling and Machinery in the United States and Mexico. 

CNC automation manufacturer, Tezmaksan Robot Technologies, will exhibit at The International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS), an event that brings together the global manufacturing industry to explore the latest in manufacturing technology. Attendees can visit Tezmaksan at stand 339280 from September 9 to 14, where the company will present its latest CubeBOX robotic automation systems alongside its distributor for the US, Dynamic Machine.

At the stand, visitors can explore a variety of state-of-the-art products that cater to the versatile needs of the manufacturing industry. Among the highlights will be a Doosan lathe combined with the CubeBOX Blues DR and Renishaw Equator. This powerful trio offers a high level of precision and efficiency, supporting automated loading and unloading processes that significantly reduce the need for manual intervention.

IMTS attendees will get to see a fully synchronized execution that combines the Doosan lathe with CubeBOX Blues DR, ServoDOOR, Renishaw Equator and a deburring system.

This demonstration will highlight the seamless integration and efficiency of these technologies working in unison to deliver precision-engineered results.

Tezmaksan will also demonstrate the capabilities of its recently introduced CubeBOX-AMR system. This system benefits from autonomous movement, flexibility and seamless integration capabilities.

It increases production efficiency while offering significant advantages in storage and logistics, such as lean management, end-to-end planning and ERP integration. This solution, set to be released this year, will help businesses to overcome bottlenecks and reduce operational costs through fully unmanned operations.

Another highlight at the show will be the CubeBOX Pallet Pool, engineered to enhance the automation of CNC machining centres, particularly in facilities with limited floor space. By allowing for continuous, unattended operation of up to 24 pallets and 16 tools, the Pallet Pool not only enhances overall productivity but also decreases the reliance on operators, making it an invaluable asset in high-demand manufacturing environments.

In addition, Tezmaksan will present the CubeBOX Blues RT-S that offers flexible and scalable solutions for CNC operations. The CubeBOX Blues RT-S is designed for both vertical machining centres and lathes, ensuring that operations can maintain high throughput levels while minimising factory footprint.

Next, the CubeBOX ServoDOOR automation and tool changer will be exhibited, demonstrating its ability to integrate seamlessly with CNC machines. This automated door system reduces cycle times, increases safety and boosts overall operational efficiency.

“IMTS Chicago is an ideal platform for us to showcase how our advanced automation technologies can transform manufacturing processes,” said Hakan Aydogdu, general manager at Tezmaksan.

“Our solutions are designed to meet the specific needs of industries like automotive, aerospace and metalworking, offering them increased efficiency, reduced operational costs and higher output quality. We look forward to demonstrating how our innovations can help manufacturers stay competitive in an evolving market.”

The Hydrodynamic Mini Rhinobar is suitable for both fixed and moving headstock lathes. It minimizes material waste with only one bar remnant from a 12-foot piece of material and allows quick changeovers between bar sizes. Available in 6 or 12-foot models, the Mini Rhinobar reliably feeds 0.06″ material and ensures maximum spindle RPM with zero bar damage due to its hydrodynamic bar support. With thousands of installations across North America, this precision-engineered, made-in-the-USA solution offers vibration-free performance, z-axis retraction while maintaining centerline, and a user-friendly interface for simple installation and operation.

Gen 3 Collet Closers are available in 42, 65, 80, and 100 mm sizes and feature an improved compact design that allows clustering on a fixture plate to maximize the use of space on the machining center table. Their innovative connector bushing design eliminates the need for external plumbing, while rebuilds and maintenance can be done from the top without disassembling the fixture. Its bottom porting design makes it ideal for 4- and 5-axis applications.

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The Unload Pro unloader is designed for the quick and gentle unloading of round workpieces in a fully automatic manner. It employs rapid unloading technology to create a continuous flow of material, enabling lathes to optimize cycle times. It is ideal for medium to large-sized batches, and is capable of unloading material with diameters up to 3.15″ (80mm) and workpiece lengths up to 48″ (1200mm). The machine ensures gentle unloading through the sub-spindle, features large storage capacity, and is controlled via a 5.7” graphic touch display. The easy replacement of spindle liner tubes is facilitated by the radial slide of the magazine. The Unload Pro was designed by Breuning IRCO in Germany and is made in the USA by Lexair.

The Breuning IRCO PROFImat magazine barfeed is ideal for shops requiring small to medium production runs. Equipped with up to eight guide channels, it allows quick material changeovers, reducing downtime by 60 percent. At the touch of a button, the robust construction and hydrodynamic effect within the guide channels ensure reliable and smooth bar feeding, providing seamless barfeed operation. The PROFImat barfeed can handle material diameters from 5 to 130mm and lengths of 3000mm, 4000mm, 6000mm, and 8000mm, with other lengths available upon request. Designed for 24/7 operation at maximum load capacity, the PROFImat features remnant retraction, utilizes standard oil or coolant, and offers easy replacement of spindle liner tubes thanks to its axial movement slide. The guide channels are constructed from aluminum with bonded wear-resistant and vibration-dampening material, ensuring durability and efficient performance. A bundle loader is available, and operation is indicated by colored LED lights, with control via a 5.7″ graphic touch display.

Visit Lexair at booth 339263, in the South Building, Level 3, during IMTS (International Manufacturing Technology Show) 2024 to explore these advanced solutions and see live demonstrations.

About Lexair

Founded in 1977 as a manufacturer of high-pressure compressors and stainless steel valves for the United States Navy, Lexair is now a leading manufacturer of hydraulic and pneumatic valves used in demanding fluid power applications, as well as a manufacturer and distributor of a range of machine tool accessories. Lexair products are found in industries across North and Sound America, Europe and Australia.

Lexair is well known as the designer and manufacturer of the Rhinobar®, Mini Rhinobar® and Multi Mini Rhinobar® hydrodynamic barfeeds designed for use with Swiss-style CNC screw machines and fixed head stock lathes. Lexair is also the exclusive importer and distributor of Breuning IRCO’s barfeeders and part loader/unloaders in North and South America. Breuning IRCO is the premier German manufacturer of lathe automation products.

In 1996, Lexair acquired the complete collet chuck line from Buck Tool Company and began aggressively developing and manufacturing new collet workholding devices to complement the acquisition. Lexair then acquired the Production Dynamics® line of collet style chucks including the Full Bore® and Prodyne® models and became the North American importer and master distributor for SYSTEC, the leading manufacturer of chucks in Brazil. With these acquisitions, partnerships and continued new product development, Lexair has become a world leader in the machine tool accessory market.

Lexair products are now distributed by over 500 independent distributors and agents in the United States, Canada, and Mexico with exports to Europe, and Australia. https://exair.co/153-mob-ar

The facility, which began operations in January 2024, is equipped with 21 multitasking machines and 23 automatic lathes. The initial production target is 20,000 tools per month, with potential to double this output. Production will focus on BBT and BT tool holders in taper sizes 30-50.

A MEGA VIP Center welcomes visitors and highlights BIG DAISHOWA’s cutting-edge technologies and commitment to innovation.

Automation plays a key role in the plant’s operations. Robots and Automated Guided Forklifts streamline material handling, increasing efficiency and ensuring consistent quality. Automation also improves productivity and process reliability.

Environmental sustainability is a priority at the new facility. A central filtration system recycles coolant at several places throughout the facility. Advanced air purification systems capture and treat oil mist in the machines to maintain a clean factory environment and minimize emissions.

As a member of the BIG DAISHOWA Group (Osaka, Japan), BIG DAISHOWA Inc. is a recognized global tooling provider, with manufacturing facilities in North America, Switzerland and Japan. BIG DAISHOWA is also the North American representative of Speroni tool measuring machines, Sphinx high performance drills, mptec measuring stands, Tekusa spindle cleaners and the UNILOCK zero-point workholding system.

A longtime global leader in high-end knurling and marking tools, Hommel & Keller manufactures the QUICK® line with a combination of function and innovation. Quality, precision and stability are the key principals used to make QUICK® tools successful. Furthermore, the company prides itself on a rich history of providing customized solutions for its customers.

The QUICK® product spectrum offers innovative solutions for diverse knurling technology applications. For both form knurling and cut knurling, QUICK® fulfills the most stringent quality standards and masters difficult tasks. Knurling tools are available for use on a wide range of workpiece diameters, including small tools for Swiss type lathes from Ø 1.5 mm.

QUICK® marking tools make it possible to mark workpieces in seconds on a variety of surfaces and part geometries. Through single marking segments, the marking text can be individually customized. Tools are available in two diameters for interchangeable lettering, as well as custom logos.

These tools are used whenever absolute precision and first-rate surface quality are needed. Examples include medical and dental instruments, watches, fishing gear, windshield wiper shafts, barbells, screwdriver bits, fittings, connectors plus welding and cutting equipment.

About Platinum Tooling

Platinum Tooling Technologies, Inc. in Prospect Heights, IL, near Chicago, serves its growing North American customer base with an extensive inventory of machine tool accessories. Its experienced staff is dedicated to providing the most innovative tooling and technology. Platinum Tooling Technologies, Inc. serves the auto, aero, medical, woodworking, composites and other industries, as well as an ever-increasing number of machine tool OEMs, through its network of manufacturers’ representatives. Platinum Tooling is the importer of Heimatec, Henninger, Tecnicrafts, Hommel + Keller QUICK tools and REV broaching tools in North America. In addition, Platinum Tooling represents Rineck Shrink Fit Tooling in the United States and Mexico.