In the world of metalworking, precision and efficiency are paramount. Threading holes accurately and consistently is essential for ensuring the integrity and performance of manufactured components. However, even the most skilled machinists can encounter challenges, such as damaged or poorly formed threads. The FlexArm tapping arm, a versatile tool that can tackle a wide range of threading applications, including chasing threads on 1018 steel round bar.
The Impact of Defective Threads
The end-user, a manufacturing company with high-volume production runs, faced a recurring issue with defective threads on 1018 steel round bar components coming off the lathe. These flawed threads resulted in scrapped parts, leading to financial losses and production delays. In search of a solution, they turned to the FlexArm tapping arm for its ability to effectively chase threads and restore them to their original specifications.
Assessing Threading Performance with the Tap Test
The tap test involved threading a 3/4-16 hole into 1018 steel material round bar. The parts provided by the customer featured left-hand threads, necessitating the use of a 3/4″ fixed holder.
Additionally, the existing threads on the parts were damaged and required chasing to ensure proper functionality.
To conduct the tap test, the FlexArm tapping arm was configured with the appropriate tap and holder. The arm’s versatility allowed for easy adjustments to accommodate the specific dimensions and thread type of the parts. The tapping process was carried out smoothly, with the FlexArm effectively chasing the damaged threads and restoring them to their original form.
Enhanced Production Efficiency and Time Savings
The tap test demonstrated the FlexArm tapping arm’s ability to address threading challenges effectively. By successfully chasing threads on the 1018 steel round bar components, the FlexArm will help the end user reduce scrap parts, improve production efficiency, and minimize financial losses.
Moreover, the FlexArm’s versatility and ease of use make it a valuable asset for any metalworking operation. Its ability to handle a wide range of threading applications, including left-hand threads, makes it a versatile tool that can streamline production processes and reduce downtime.
Conclusion
The FlexArm tapping arm has proven to be a valuable tool for our customer, enabling them to address threading issues and minimize scrap parts. Its versatility, efficiency, and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for any metalworking operation seeking to enhance its threading capabilities and improve overall production performance. If you are facing a similar problem or unsure if the FlexArm tapping arm can help you with your needs, schedule a tap test today.
In the world of metalworking, precision and efficiency are paramount. Threading holes accurately and consistently is essential for ensuring the integrity and performance of manufactured components. However, even the most skilled machinists can encounter challenges, such as damaged or...
Flex Machine Tools is excited to announce the launch of its newest waterjet cutting system, the FlexJet FLX. This innovative machine is designed to meet the demands of even the most discerning manufacturers, offering superior performance, service, and innovation....
Crystal Group, Inc. is a leading provider of high-performance, rugged compute solutions for defense, government, and industrial markets. Founded in 1987, this small, employee-owned business specializes in designing, customizing, building, and testing rugged servers, embedded computers, networking devices, displays,...
Auto Stand-Off – This is currently defined to be surface stand-off and not to be confused with vector stand-off in 5-axis mode. The current auto stand-off is based on a changing surface and will adjust vertically based on the angle of the “A” Axis, so there is five (5) axis taken into account during the calculations, but this is not the same as the tool vector stand-off. There is the ability to do the vector stand-off change while the machine is running manually with buttons on the screen.
Z-Reader Probe – The Z-Reader is a device for mapping the location of the surface. It can be controlled manually & programmatically. The option is NOT active while cutting & is retracted out of harm’s way. It can be triggered to verify the surface at every pierce before the cutting process starts, or it could be used to drive surface mapping of the whole part before cutting starts. It begins with initialization or zeroing of the device to the surface at the beginning of a program and then accumulates or tracks the difference from that zeroing effort.
Automatic Edge Finder – The edge finder is or can be utilized manually (Jogging Method & Screen Buttons), programmatically (M & G codes), or fully automatic routine (dedicated program). This option sets offsets & program rotation to match the orientation & location on the cutting table.
AC Unit Installed on Electrical Cabinet – The unit is mounted on the cabinet’s High Power (480v) side. It is close to the location where the drives are mounted. This option keeps the cabinet temperature stable and allows heat dissipation faster. The servo drives for all axes are the most significant contributors to heat inside the electrical cabinet.
5-Axis Renishaw Calibration – The calibration unit is a Renishaw model APCA45 with a modified spherical stylus. The device has a retractable cover and air purge to clear debris & dust during the activation process. It mounts to a swing arm controlled by a pneumatic rotary, so it is out of the way during regular operation and swings into the calibration position for calibration only.