Threading solution cuts machining times and eliminates second operations

Citation

(2007), "Threading solution cuts machining times and eliminates second operations", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 79 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.2007.12779cab.008

Threading solution cuts machining times and eliminates second operations

Threading solution cuts machining times and eliminates second operations

The combination of a Vargus Threading Solutions' Vardex MiniL thread turning tool and Vardex VHX TiN coated HSS inserts has reportedly cut thread generation cycle times from 8min to an amazing 3.5min on aerospace 316 austenitic steel locking nuts at Peter Day Precision Engineering in Christchurch.

It is also reported that, the tooling solution-applied on a Citizen M32 sliding head auto-has also extended tool life compared to former methods and, because the job is completed in a single set-up, has eliminated secondary machining.

“Supplying the parts in repeat batches of 1,000-1,500, we started by splitting the machining sequence to accommodate the requirement for a through-bore M12 thread, which was being generated by an internal screwcutting carbide tool,” reflects managing director Dave Causley. “But we knew there was a better way, a way that would reduce cycle times and extend tool life, and therefore save money,” he says.

With reduced surface speed on the Citizen machine (10m/min instead of 25m/min as required with carbide), the sequence of machining on the 13-axis machine with main and sub- spindle is now to turn OD, knurl, mill flats and cut out, centre drill and bore, chamfer lead for thread and turn down the face. The part is then picked up on the sub-spindle, rough and finish turned, and a groove is generated before reboring and thread turning.

“The Vargus Threading Solution has transformed a job that was once a headache,” exclaims Dave.” In addition to at least halving cycle times and eliminating secondary/finish machining, because the tool is very stable-there's no chatter or noise-tool life is also so much better.

“With such reliable tool life, we can confidently let the machine run unattended, including lights out, and an added bonus of the tool's insert bed design is that one cutting edge is always protected so compacted swarf is avoided, which wasn't the case previously.”

The success of this application has subsequently led to the use of the tool on other applications and other machines at the company (Boley turning centres), with similar savings being generated.

Figure 5 Vargus Threading Solutions' Vardex MiniL thread turning has transformed production of this 316 austenitic steel locking nut

Available from Vargus Tooling, the Vardex Mini Pro range of indexable inserts is designed for threading and grooving in bores as small as 3.2mm diameter and up to 13mm diameter. The range comprises the Micro and Mini 3 (IC4), Mini L and Mini 3 (1C 6) styles for pitches from 0.9 to 2mm. The VHX insert style is complemented by VMX and VKP (TiN coated general use carbide), VBX (TiCN coated carbide for 1C 4) ideal for steel, and VTX (TiAIN coated carbide for 1C 4) for machining stainless steel.

Vargus Tooling UK Ltd, Tel: +44 (0)1952 583 222, Fax: +44 (0)1952 583 383, web site: www.vargustooling.co.uk, E-mail: tooling.uk@vargustooling.co.uk (Figure 5)