Flexible laser system enables the production of high precision chip breakers on cutting inserts.
The ACSYS Lasertechnik GmbH from Kornwestheim (Stuttgart) in Germany manufactures high precision laser systems for the tool industry and offers a broad spectrum of solutions in a variety of machine tools – from the table laser machine up to the fully automatic laser system. The BARRACUDA is one of the most flexible laser machines. It is available in different standard configurations and also as customized solutions. The “tool expert” can do permanent markings and engravings on tool holders and cutting inserts for example, and has also the ability for the material optimized production of high precision chip breaking systems. More and more customers ask for this functionality as their customer’s range of requirement continues to push the cutting edge of technology.
The chip breaker is an irregularity or channel cut into the face of a lathe tool behind the cutting edge to cause removed stock to break into small chips or curls. Engineers work on the development of more effective three dimensional shapes for the chip breaking to optimize the lifetime of the tools, and to increase machining speeds. High complex computer design models simulate different materials for mixed chip breaking systems and channels.
The laser provides many benefits compared to conventional production technologies. 3D-Software and the micron-precision of the ACSYS laser systems enable new three-dimensional arrangements of chip breaker and channels in lathe tools. New alternatives for producers and manufacturers are the results of these developments.
For this reason ACSYS created this specialized BARRACUDA. High-tensile materials and a vibration reduced framework are prerequisites for precise reproducibility of smallest components.
Know-How from the jewelry and mint industry.
“The 3D micro engraving has caused an enormous improvement in the fabrication of punches for hallmarking and assaying”, says Gerhard Kimmel, managing director of ACSYS Lasertechnik GmbH. “Until a few years ago it was technically impossible to produce unforgeable micron 3D identification marks. Only the use of the laser and the high precision repeatability of our systems open up new ways of production for the assay and mint industries.
The AC-LASER Software Suite from ACSYS is an internal development and is getting steadily improved and enhanced. The software enables the integration of up to seven axes with the advantage of a high resolution image processing. The LAS – Live Adjust system is unique and enables the positioning of the 3D layouts of the chip breaker. The continuously adjustable zoom function brings out the details of the workpiece and allows the precise positioning of the 3D chip breaker layouts.
The Laser not only offers essential advantages in the development and prototyping of components for our customers but also offers:
– Laser marking
– laser engraving
– 3D laser engraving
– single part processing
– automated processing
– prototype development
– series manufacturing.