In
recent years, shops have experienced market changes that continue to impact how
parts are manufactured. Shorter lead times, reduced lot sizes and the drive to
eliminate inventory have conspired to change the manufacturing process.
In the
current manufacturing process adapted for the machining of metal parts needs a
milling machine to mill, a turning machine to turn, a drill press to make holes
and so on. Each operation was an incremental step in the manufacturing
process--ultimately resulting in a completely machined part. Shorter lead
times, reduced lot sizes and the drive to eliminate inventory have conspired to
change the manufacturing process.
The Turn/Mill technology will enable to complete
most of the operations on a workpiece in a single setting. The turn-mill
machine brings advantages of access to part geometric features that previously
would require secondary operations. This reduction of clamping time avoids the
error accumulation caused by the conversion of positioning datum. Thus
improving the machining accuracy resulting in enhancement of throughput yield.
Additionally this technology provides the
ability to reduce production leadtime, improve machining accuracy, reduce floor
space, lower operating expenses, reduce operator requirements and improve the
work environment.