To summarize, Y-axis turning is a method for simultaneous three-axis turning with interpolation of the milling spindle axis. The new tools can also be used in “static mode” with a locked spindle for flexible two-axis turning with fast insert indexing. The method is suitable for all materials and requires a multitask machine with options to allow interpolation of the milling spindle axis during turning.

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“One could say that these advances, together with progressive capabilities in modern machines and CAM software, have paved the way for the new Y-axis turning method,” explained Staffan Lundström, product manager, Turning. “And with the tools and method now in place, we look forward to exploring the possibilities this method can present to our customers.”

The ability to machine several features with a single tool reduces cycle time, and no tool changes are required, which minimizes the risk of “blend points,” or irregularities between adjacent machined surfaces. The main cutting forces are directed into the machine spindle, thus improving stability and reducing the risk of vibration. A constant entering angle drastically improves chip control and makes it easier to avoid chip jamming.

Process of both external (e.g., thread milling) and internal (e.g., tapping, thread milling) cutting, turning and rolling of threads into particular material. Standardized specifications are available to determine the desired results of the threading process. Numerous thread-series designations are written for specific applications. Threading often is performed on a lathe. Specifications such as thread height are critical in determining the strength of the threads. The material used is taken into consideration in determining the expected results of any particular application for that threaded piece. In external threading, a calculated depth is required as well as a particular angle to the cut. To perform internal threading, the exact diameter to bore the hole is critical before threading. The threads are distinguished from one another by the amount of tolerance and/or allowance that is specified. See turning.

Machining operation in which a tap, with teeth on its periphery, cuts internal threads in a predrilled hole having a smaller diameter than the tap diameter. Threads are formed by a combined rotary and axial-relative motion between tap and workpiece. See tap.

SANDVIK COROMANT has developed two new tools to support a new turning method – Y-axis turning. The new CoroTurn® Prime variant is recommended for turning shafts, flanges, and components with undercuts. The CoroPlex® YT twin-tool, featuring CoroTurn TR profiling inserts and CoroTurn 107 round inserts with rail interface, can be used for components with pockets and cavities.

Cone-shaped pins that support a workpiece by one or two ends during machining. The centers fit into holes drilled in the workpiece ends. Centers that turn with the workpiece are called “live” centers; those that do not are called “dead” centers.

Machining operation in which metal or other material is removed by applying power to a rotating cutter. In vertical milling, the cutting tool is mounted vertically on the spindle. In horizontal milling, the cutting tool is mounted horizontally, either directly on the spindle or on an arbor. Horizontal milling is further broken down into conventional milling, where the cutter rotates opposite the direction of feed, or “up” into the workpiece; and climb milling, where the cutter rotates in the direction of feed, or “down” into the workpiece. Milling operations include plane or surface milling, endmilling, facemilling, angle milling, form milling and profiling.

Tungaloy introduces an indexable thread milling solution for tapered pipe threads to its ThreadMilling series. The indexable thread milling system of ThreadMilling allows various types of threading insert(s) to be fitted on a single cutter body, making the operations extremely economical. With the new multipoint threading inserts and cutter bodies, thread milling for NPT and NPTF threads as well as BSPT thread are now possible on machining centers, using its spiral interpolation feature.

The technique makes use of the Y-axis, and all three axes are used simultaneously when machining. The tool rotates around its own center, the insert is placed for machining in the Y-Z plane and the milling spindle axis interpolates during turning. This allows intricate shapes to be machined with a single tool.

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Thread milling techniques, in many respects, offer greater advantages over tapping with reduced cutting loads for higher reliability. Solid carbide taps pose higher risk of tool breakage, while HSS taps offer shorter tool life. In addition, insert screws are designed not to detach from the cutter body when completely loosened during insert setup so operators will have no concern dropping or losing the tiny screws in the machine.

3 types of tapered threads are available: NPT (for 11.5 and 14 TPIs) and NPTF (for 14 TPI) of the U.S. standard, as well as BSPT (for 11 and 14 TPIs), which is common in Asian markets

Available in two major types: tungsten high-speed steels (designated by letter T having tungsten as the principal alloying element) and molybdenum high-speed steels (designated by letter M having molybdenum as the principal alloying element). The type T high-speed steels containing cobalt have higher wear resistance and greater red (hot) hardness, withstanding cutting temperature up to 1,100º F (590º C). The type T steels are used to fabricate metalcutting tools (milling cutters, drills, reamers and taps), woodworking tools, various types of punches and dies, ball and roller bearings. The type M steels are used for cutting tools and various types of dies.

Process of generating a sufficient number of positioning commands for the servomotors driving the machine tool so the path of the tool closely approximates the ideal path. See CNC, computer numerical control; NC, numerical control.