TPT March 2008

T echnology U pdate

Avoid bending guesswork with 3D programming software

BLM Group has developed 3D graphical programming software that removes the guesswork from tube bending by automatically selecting the correct working parameters to optimise component cycle times. Designed for ease of use, the company’s tube bending machines are equipped with a PC-based control (or a Siemens 840DI CNC), and operate using VGP3D software. VGP3D software is installed as standard on machines such as the all-electric E-Turn right and left hand tube bender. On these machines it automatically selects the bending program parameters that will optimise cycle times while deskilling the setting process.

The minimum control system requirement is a PC with 15" touch screen monitor running the Microsoft Windows operating system, a Pentium 111 processor with 256MB RAM, and an 18GB hard disk for program storage, part details and tool library. Inputting the bend coordinates of a component can be done either at the machine or, via an Ethernet network, from a remote PC. It is possible to create a part program in VGP3D by entering either XYZ (where X=distance between bends, Y=bend angle and Z=tube rotation/orientation) or Cartesian UVW coordinates. The shortest and most efficient bending cycle is displayed simultaneously on the screen in real-time. This will highlight possible collision risks

and any interference of the bent tube with the machine. If such a risk is identified, an alternative strategy is proposed on screen (with the new cycle time shown in real time), and can be accepted by the operator with a ‘soft touch’ on the screen. This collision avoidance route eliminates any likelihood of expensive machine downtime, tool damage and material wastage. Alternatively, the operator can opt to amend the bending program manually, with all data input and selection performed on the touch screen. Any change to the bending program is initiated by ‘dragging and dropping’ an icon into the desired position on the screen. This is a simple, visual and intuitive method that makes editing of even complex programs – such as multi-stack bending with bend- on-bend, multi-radii, variable radius and left-/right-hand bending – easy, quick and safe. › BLM Group’s VGP3D software automatically selects the tube bending program parameters to optimise cycle times fi Creating a tube bending program is fast and easy with the 3D graphical programming facility provided by VGP3D software

Installation of high volume basketless heat treatment system

Can-Eng Furnaces, a designer and manufacturer of industrial heat treating equipment, has installed and commissioned a high volume T-5 basketless heat treatment system (BHTS) for an automobile manufacturer located in the south-eastern United States. The BHTS provides the engine manufacturer with a significant reduction in energy consumption and floor space requirements over conventional roller hearth or batch heat treatment systems.

Can-Eng’s incorporates a material handling system that provides for single piece product flow, transferring components through the system without the use of baskets, carriers or trays. WIP inventories are reduced, while the material handling system also provides quality improvements through its individual part handling capability. Product cycle times are also reduced. BHTS

The system integrates transfer conveyors, robotic automation, aging furnace, post processing cooling, part identification and a user-friendly advanced control package, to deliver a state-of-the-art cellular processing system. Other Can-Eng products include T4, T5, T6 and T7 heat treatment systems, modular aluminium heat treating systems, precision air quench systems, primary aluminium processing furnace systems, SCADA systems, process enhancement technology (PET TM ), continuous steel bar heat treatment systems, continuous mesh belt furnace systems, and a wide range of custom furnace solutions. The company also offers a comprehensive after-market support team delivering system upgrades, technical support and replacement parts. › The basketless heat treatment system from Can-Eng Furnaces

Can-Eng Furnaces Ltd – Canada Fax : +1 905 356 1817 Email : furnaces@can-eng.com • Website : www.can-eng.com

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M arch 2008

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