Are you a product designer looking to turn your product idea into reality, or do you have a part you want to manufacture? If so, you’re likely looking to choose a manufacturing technology to create your parts accurately and precisely.

Computer numerical control (CNC) machines satisfy all of these requirements and more. Not only can these machines create simple and complex parts accurately and precisely, but they are also fast and cost-effective. However, there are several types of CNC machines, each having its unique design and suitability for creating different part features.

In this article, we will talk about ten of the most common types of CNC machines in the manufacturing industry. You’ll learn about how each of these machines operates and the different manufacturing processes and operations they can perform.

What is CNC Technology?

Computer Numerical Control (CNC) describes the idea of automatically controlling machine tools through pre-programmed software and code.

The CNC machining process starts with 3D modeling of the desired part using CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software. Next, the 3D model is loaded into a CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) software, creating a set of computer instructions (G-code) that controls the sequence of movements of the cutting tools on the workpiece.

Now let’s look at the different types of CNC machines and how they differ.

#1 CNC Milling Machines

CNC milling machines (or CNC mills) are the most common type of CNC machines. They feature a multi-blade cutting tool attached to a spindle and made to rotate at high speed against a stationary workpiece. They are ideal for creating cavities, angled cuts, off-center holes, and complex features.

Learn More: What is CNC Milling?

#2 CNC Routers

Image Source: Rickwashburn1, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

CNC routers (or routing machines) are very similar to CNC millsㅡthey use a multi-blade cutting tool that rotates against the workpiece to create desired parts. However, while CNC mills are commonly used for hard metals and industrial-grade materials, CNC routers are better suited for cutting softer and delicate materials like plastics, wood, and foam.

They are ideal for creating panels, plastic prototypes, and molds for injection molding applications.

#3 CNC Lathes

CNC lathes (or turning machines) share similarities with CNC mills and routers; they feature chuck and spindle and rely on CNC technology. However, these machines differ in their working methods, which are exact opposites.

In CNC lathes, the chuck and spindle hold and rotate the workpiece against a stationary cutting tool. These machines usually have a 3-axis configuration and can achieve tolerances as tight as ±4 μm. Thus, they are ideal for machining complex cylindrical shapes.

If your machining project requires high-quality turning processes, including taper turning, knurling, drilling, parting, and grooving, then a CNC lathe machine is the ideal equipment to use. You may also use this machine for reaming, counterboring, spot facing, and thread cutting operations. However, bear in mind that CNC lathes get less accurate as the workpiece gets thicker.

Learn More: What is CNC Turning?

#4 CNC Laser Cutter

CNC laser cutters are similar to CNC mills in the type of shapes or features they can machine. However, they differ from their milling counterparts by performing cutting operations using laser beams.

A laser beam is a column of high-intensity light. When focused on a workpiece, it melts the workpiece till a cut is created. CNC technology controls the sequence of movements of the laser cutting head (and laser beam) till the desired custom part is made.

CNC laser cutters offer a high level of cutting accuracy and are great for cutting a wide range of materials, including metals, plastics, and hardwood. In addition, their extremely high precision makes them ideal for machining your brand name and logo to a CNC milled or turned part.

Learn More: What is a CNC Laser Cutter?

#5 CNC Plasma Cutting Machines

Image Source: Steve Brown Photography, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

CNC plasma cutting machines also offer a high level of cutting accuracy and a wide range of material compatibility, like laser cutters. They only differ from laser cutters by performing cutting operations using a plasma torch.

The plasma torch generates high-powered plasma (or charged gas) capable of reaching temperatures of up to 50000°F. This tremendous amount of heat energy seamlessly cuts through any material so long as it is electrically conductive.

#6 CNC Electrical Discharge Machines (EDM)

CNC Electrical Discharge Machines, also known as spark CNC machines, use electrical sparks from a metal tool to cut the workpiece into the desired shape. Like plasma cutting machines, electric discharge machines also require that the workpiece is electrically conductive. This stringent requirement exists because the metal tool serves as an electrode and can only disintegrate electrically conductive materials.

Electrical discharge machines are ideal for machining micro slots, holes, and angled features in difficult-to-machine metals, such as high-carbon steel and hardened steel.

Learn More: What is EDM?

#7 CNC Water Jet Cutters

Image Source: Steve Brown Photography, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

As its name implies, a CNC water jet cutter uses high-pressure jets of water (or a mixture of water and an abrasive substance) to cut through materials. Computer numerical control technology controls the sequence of motion of the water jet to create the desired finished part.

CNC water jet cutters are quite similar to CNC plasma and laser cutters in the sense that they eliminate the need for machine tools. However, unlike CNC plasma and laser cutters, CNC water jet cutters are especially suited for materials with low thermal resistance, like aluminum and plastics. By “low thermal resistance,” we mean the materials are prone to melting when you expose them to high temperatures.

#8 CNC Grinders

CNC grinders (or grinding machines) feature rotating wheels that cut materials from a workpiece to create a product that meets your specification. These machines also feature intelligent thermal control systems that check the temperature of the grinding wheel and compensate for changes that might otherwise affect the accuracy of the machined parts.

All these advantages make CNC grinders ideal for high-precision manufacturing applications. For instance, you can use CNC grinders to create high-quality metal workpieces for transmission shafts, camshafts, and other complex parts that require precise surface finishes.

Learn More: Surface Finish and the Surface Roughness Chart

#9 CNC Drilling Machines

Image Source: Cosme2c, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

CNC drilling machines are quite similar to traditional drilling machinesㅡthey utilize a rotating cutting tool to produce holes in a stationary workpiece. However, because CNC drilling machines rely on CNC technology, they are more accurate and versatile than traditional drilling machines.

For instance, CNC drilling machines can create holes while achieving tolerances as tight as ±0.001mm. They are also compatible with a wide range of materials, including metals, plastics, and wood. In addition, recent CNC drilling machine technologies feature a tool turretㅡwhich accepts multiple drill bits and allows you to quickly shuffle between the bits during manufacturing.

You should opt for CNC drilling machines if you’re looking to fabricate hubs, gear blanks, and machined shafts.

#10 6-axis CNC Machines

Image Source: GregorDS, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The axis of a CNC machine describes the number of independent directions that the CNC cutting tool (or workpiece) can move to create a machined part. For instance, a 3-axis CNC machine typically operates along the X-axis (vertical), Y-axis (horizontal), and Z-axis (depth) to machine a workpiece and create a finished part.

However, CNC machine technology has advanced to include 6-axis capabilities in recent years. 6-axis CNC machines combine the three-axis linear movement of 3-axis machines with rotation about the X-, Y-, and Z-axes. This ensures that the cutting tool remains perpendicular to the material surface on multiple planes, allowing you to create complex parts.

6-axis machines can fabricate pretty much any complex design, so long as the machinist is skilled in CNC parts manufacturing.

CNC Machining High-Quality Parts: Gensun Can Help

Now that you know the different CNC machine types and their capabilities, you’d agree that CNC machines can fabricate pretty much any part, feature, or product. However, the success of your manufacturing project also depends on the machine shop and machinists creating your products.

Gensun Precision Machining is a leading provider of CNC machining services across Asia. Not only do we have a wide variety of CNC machine types, but we also have highly experienced engineers and machinists capable of getting your product done right.

Learn more about our CNC machining services.

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Note: This article was originally published in June of 2021 and was updated in May of 2022

Injection molding is a common manufacturing process with different variants depending on the raw material used. One of such variants of the process is the ABS injection molding process. Just as the name implies, the raw material for this injection molding variant is ABS plastic.

Contents
hide

I
Understanding ABS for Injection Molding

II
ABS Injection Molding Process

III
Advantages of ABS Injection Molding

IV
Disadvantages of ABS Injection Molding

V
Factors to Consider During ABS Injection Molding

VI
Applications of ABS Injection Molding

VII
The Cost of ABS Injection Molding Process

VIII
Conclusion

IX
FAQ

Understanding ABS for Injection Molding

ABS stands for Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene. This plastic material comprises three monomers that make up its name. Each of these monomers contributes its properties to the polymer plastic to give it a wide range of properties.

The properties the plastic possesses include chemical resistance, hardness, and heat resistance contributed by acrylonitrile. Other properties include impact resistance and toughness (bestowed by butadiene) and strength and gloss contributed by styrene. Despite its wide range of features, it is relatively one of the cheapest plastics to purchase. Also, it is one of the easiest plastics to use in injection molding due to its ease of processability.

Despite its acclaimed strength and toughness, this strong plastic isn’t so impervious to UV light. Hence it has limited outdoor use. However, part manufacturers have found ways to manipulate the properties of this plastic to withstand UV light by using various additives and fillers such as acrylic, glass, and stainless steel fibers. These additives alter the properties of the plastic and further enhance its uses for various applications.

These properties and potential for manipulation make ABS the most widely used polymer in the injection molding process. Want to find out how this plastic is used for manufacturing various finished products? Then, the next section is a must-read.

ABS Injection Molding Process

This section highlights the various steps manufacturers must follow during the ABS plastic molding process. They include:

Material Pre-treatment

Before using a piece of ABS plastic for manufacturing, it needs proper drying. The drying temperature used is within the range of 80 – 85°C done for 2 – 4 hours. Another drying method involves using a drying hopper with a temperature of 80°C. However, the latter process only lasts for 1 – 2 hours.

Calibration of the Injection Molding Machine

After treating the material, the next step is to prepare the ABS molding machine for work. This will involve setting the parameters such as the compression ratio, clamping force, and injection molding pressure. The typical values for these parameters include a compression ratio greater than 2, a clamping force ranging from 4700 to 62000 tonnes per square meter (t/m²), and an injection molding pressure greater than 1500 bar.

Mold and Gate Design

The mold is quite vital in determining how the finished ABS product will turn out. Hence, the design of the mold and its gate is quite important in the process. The thickness of the ABS mold ranges between 0.025 – 0.05mm, while the gate length is set at less than 1mm. Also, the diameter of the channel through which the molten ABS flows is set at 3mm, while the vent hole width ranges from 4 – 6mm. Finally, the mold temperature used is always around a range of 60 – 65°C.

Injection Molding Temperature

The injection molding temperature used for a particular ABS injection molding process depends on the quality/grade of ABS used. Listed below are examples of some grades of ABS plastic commonly used in ABS plastic molding and the optimum injection molding temperature used:

• Flame Resistant Grade: 200 – 240 °C, the optimum temperature within 220°C – 230°C.
• Electroplating Grade: 250 – 275°C, with the optimum temperature at 270°C.
• Glass Fiber Reinforced Grade: 230°C – 270°C.
• High Impact Grade: 220°C – 260°C, optimum temperature at 250°C.
• Heat-Resistant Grade: 240°C – 280°C, optimum temperature at 265°C – 270°C.

Injection Molding Speed

The injection molding speed depends on the grade of the ABS plastic and the finished product requirements. For example, flame-resistant ABS plastics can only use slow injection molding speeds. Also, products that require precision surface finishing could require multi-stage, high injection molding speeds.

Residence Time

The residence time is the time it takes for a plastic pellet to move from the injection molding barrel to the injection mold. For ABS plastics, the residence time is usually between 5 – 6 minutes at a temperature lower than 265°C. However, for flame-retardants grade ABS plastic, the residence time is shorter, and the temperature is way lower.

Backpressure

It is advisable to keep the backpressure of the ABS injection molding process as low as possible to prevent wear. The acceptable pressure is usually around 5 bar.

Other Operations

Other activities carried out during ABS molding processes include decorated moldings using laser marking or hot stamping, ultrasonic welding, etc.

Cleanup

Some ABS grades tend to stick to the mold screw after removing the part. So the best way to clean this up is to wait a little bit for the residue to wear off, then clean the compartments of the injection molding machine thoroughly using polystyrene.

Advantages of ABS Injection Molding

There are many reasons why ABS injection molding is one of the most popular forms of plastic molding. Some of the advantages include:

Accurate Reproducibility

Due to the processability of ABS, it is the most suitable material to use in making complex parts. Its processability makes it easy to reproduce complex and functional parts using the plastic. Apart from the parts being accurately produced, they still maintain functional integrity even when used in extreme conditions, thanks to the hardness of the plastic.

High Tensile Strength

ABS molded parts are suitable for use in applications that require supporting heavy loads because of their high tensile strength. Their ability to withstand heavy mechanical impacts makes this plastic a good budget option for high tension applications.

Recyclability

The recyclability of ABS makes it a perfect material for use in reusable applications. Recycling plants can easily shred the plastic parts and mix them up with fresh ABS to use for new parts production.

Disadvantages of ABS Injection Molding

Despite its numerous advantages, ABS has its shortcomings too. Some of these disadvantages include:

Poor Fatigue Resistance

While ABS parts usually have high tensile strength, they can’t withstand heavy loads for long periods because of their poor fatigue resistance. The ABS plastic part might degrade easily if constantly exposed to high-stress environments.

Subpar UV Resistance

One of ABS plastic’s major shortcomings is its poor sunlight performance. The material tends to degrade upon constant exposure to sunlight. However, part manufacturers enhance its performance in sunlight by adding additives to the ABS plastic during molding.

Factors to Consider During ABS Injection Molding

When trying to start an ABS injection molding batch, a few factors must be in place. These factors are vital to having successfully molded parts. They include:

Moisture in Material before Molding

ABS plastic has some hygroscopic properties (it can absorb moisture from the air) and also absorb water around it. However, the presence of water in any molded ABS plastic could cause structural defects in the plastic. Hence, ensuring the ABS plastic used is properly dried is essential. There are two parameter types for drying the plastic: either dry at 80 – 95°C for 3 – 4 hours or use a dry hopper at 80°C for 1 – 2 hours.

Temperature Control

Controlling the temperature is crucial during ABS injection molding as overheating the plastic could lead to thermal degradation. This thermal degradation is due to the chemical bonds in the plastic breaking, which could cause brown granules on the finished part.

Working with an injection molding machine with good temperature control is essential as this process still requires a lot of heat. For example, when the ABS parts in production contain a high level of gloss, the temperature used in production is higher than normal. However, it is important to note that the higher the temperature used for the injection process, the shorter the exposure time should be.  

Part and Mold Design

Designing the parts before the injection molding process makes it possible to determine if producing the part is actually possible. Here are some general principles that work with ABS parts design:

• The thickness of the part’s walls should be uniform. If there were to be any variation, it shouldn’t be more than 25% of each other. This is important because uniform walls help prevent stress on the deficient wall.
• Also, the wall thickness should determine the radius size. The ratio of the radius to the wall thickness should not be less than 0.3. The golden rule here is that the bigger the radius, the less the stress. However, the radius must stay within reasonable limits as a large radius causes sink marks on the part.
• For the mold, the thickness should range from 0.025 to 0.05mm. Also, the gate length should be around 1mm, the flow channel diameter should be around 3mm, and the vent hole width should range from 4 to 6mm.

Finally, the injection mold cooling process needs an optimal design to prevent problems with shrinkage.

Applications of ABS Injection Molding

ABS plastic has uses in different industries due to various reasons. Due to its ease of molding, the low cost of production, and resistance to physical and chemical changes, this polymer has become a manufacturer’s favorite. Here are some examples of industries where ABS plastic parts have found use:

• Construction Industry: Due to its resistance to physical and chemical cand heavy impacts, manufacturers use ABS plastics to make pipes and fittings used in buildings.
• Automotive Industry: ABS plastic is a common raw material for lightweight car parts. Examples of car parts made out of ABS plastic include seat belt parts, door loners, pillar trims, dashboard components, etc.
• Consumer Industry: ABS plastics are found in many home appliances such as food processors, vacuum cleaners, refrigerator liners, etc.

Other applications include the health, sports, and electrical industries.

The Cost of ABS Injection Molding Process

If you’re trying to produce some parts using injection molding, it is only right you find out about the cost of the whole process before going ahead. To estimate the costs involved, you need to factor in different costs. Examples of the various costs involved include:

Equipment Costs

You’ll most likely outsource your production to companies with the necessary equipment. These companies will charge you a separate fee for the equipment used. However, if you plan to get the equipment, you’ll have to dole a sum within the $50,000 – $200,000 range. Apart from buying the equipment, you’ll also have to maintain the equipment, which could cost you a fortune. The cost-effective option will be to outsource the production.

Mold Costs

This is also known as the tooling costs. This drives up the cost of the ABS injection molding process. There are three different methods used in making injection molds. They include CNC machining, 3D printing, and electrical discharge machining (EDM). These methods can range as low as $100 for low-volume simple 3D-printed molds. The price could also go as high as $100,000 for huge production runs or molds with complex designs.

Material Costs

This is the cost of buying the material (in this case, ABS). You’ll be able to find the material for a cost ranging from $1 to $5 per kg.

Service Costs

The costs here are responsible for the remuneration of the personnel carrying out the tasks and for the setup and maintenance of the machines. Examples of parameters factored in here include:

• Monitoring Costs: This goes to the operators running the machines.
• Setup Costs: This goes to the time taken to set up the mold and produce the finished part.
• Repair Costs: Repair costs will cover the maintenance of parts with defects and tools used to maintain the equipment.
• While there’s no fixed price for ABS molding, the general rule is that the larger the number of parts, the smaller the price per part.

Conclusion

ABS injection molding is a process that seems pretty easy to achieve. However, its technicalities that only experts understand. This is why it is important to outsource your ABS molding to companies that actually understand the practical principles of the manufacturing process.

At WayKen, with advanced manufacturing technologies and resources, we can provide our customers with professional rapid prototyping services ., including CNC machining, rapid injection molding, vacuum casting, etc. So, get a quote today, and you can be sure to get high-quality injection molded parts at a competitive price.

FAQ

At what temperature does ABS plastic melt?

ABS is amorphous, so it has no true melting temperature.  However, its transition temperature is about 105°C (221°F).

How toxic is ABS Plastic?

ABS is harmless and non-toxic. This is one of many reasons it is a popular plastic material in manufacturing. However, it is not encouraged to use in medical implants.

How do I solve the problem of flame-retardant ABS injection molding?

To prevent the out-gassing that comes from the flame-retardant ABS plastic absorbing moisture, you need to ensure the material is fully dried. Also, you need to ensure good temperature and residence time control during the injection molding process to prevent thermal degradation of the ABS plastic.

Speaking in an interview with Europe 1, PSG central midfielder Adrien Rabiot confirmed that he was open to listening to offers from other clubs.

“I am under contract until 2019 and I do not think that I am in a rush. Honestly, I am nothing thinking about that. If there are offers from big clubs, that obviously demands that they are considered. Clubs like Real Madrid, they are great clubs but, truly, the most important thing is the present and I am concentrating on what I am doing right now, that is the best thing to do.”

Click Here: Nigeria soccer tracksuit

#Product Trends

New Seepex pump for the battery industry

Seepex’s new BF range of pumps kas been tailored to the needs of the growing battery production industry.

The gigafactories being built around the world to meet the huge demand for lithium-ion batteries in the automotive, electronics and semiconductor industries require a large number of pumps.

In battery production, chemical resistance and chemically compatible materials are required to avoid contamination of valuable raw materials. During the critical process of formulation, continuity and high repeatability are essential. Contamination-free pumps are also needed for smooth operation. The coating process plays another important role, as the pump has a direct impact on product quality by minimizing variations in coating thickness.

The Seepex BF pump is precisely tailored to these requirements; ensuring safety, cleanliness, high product quality and cost efficiency. The maintenance-friendly design reduces downtime and the total cost of ownership (TCO). The clamp connections for quick installation/removal and the removable rotating unit simplify replacement and maintenance work. With proper maintenance the robust pump has a long product life.

The Seepex BF pump can be installed quickly, has a flow rate of up to 30 m³/h and operates at a pressure of up to 12 bar. It is available in block or bare shaft design and can meet customer-specific drive requirements. A TA-Luft or ATEX certified version is also available.

“Operational safety and maximum cleanliness when using valuable dispersed raw materials were the driving forces behind the development of the BF range,” says Thomas Dufner, Battery Market Manager at Seepex. “It helps reduce total cost of ownership and improve energy efficiency in virtually all battery applications by eliminating contamination and being easy to maintain. Cleaning cycle failures and disposal of contaminated battery compounds are not only wasteful, but also very costly.”

“Chemical resistance and chemically compatible materials are necessary to prevent contamination of expensive raw materials,” added Dufner. “With BF, we assure that the materials are chemically compatible. The stainless steel design and flexible titanium shaft ensure contamination-free product quality. Contamination by oil or grease is impossible. The pumps can be thoroughly cleaned with common solvents and deionized water.”

Battery compounds, from lithium to electrolyte, can be added to the mixing process in precise, drop-by-drop doses. Continuity and high repeatability are critical during the formulation process. In the coating process, the pump has a direct impact on product quality by minimizing variations in coating thickness. The BF range achieves this continuity and high repeatability by using the Seepex progressive cavity pump principle with the advantage of extremely low pulsation. This ensures the highest dosing accuracy, resulting in better coating results and more accurate slurry recipes.

Seepex progressive cavity pumps, with their special design, have no spillage or leakage due to their high degree of sealability. In addition, a wide range of seals is available for different battery compounds.

Seepex, which is part of the Ingersoll Rand Group, produces its battery pumps in Shanghai, China and Bottrop, Germany in order to be able to offer large quantities with short delivery times.

#Product Trends

New Cat® heavy electric truck ‘pays for itself

Not just a great forklift but a money-saving, productivity-boosting and profit-increasing investment. That’s how Cat® Lift Trucks describes its new heavy electric counterbalance range.

The 6.0 to 12.0 tonne Cat® EP60-120N(H) range has been launched with a focus on ‘improvement that pays for itself’. Its operating economy, productive performance and driver-empowering qualities are especially emphasised.

Save money with the 6.0 to 12.0 tonne Cat® EP60-120N(H) range

The new truck’s efficient electrical systems and large battery capacities enable economical energy use and long runtimes. For easy lateral exchanging, the 96V batteries are divided into two parts. These can be removed and replaced by one person, using a power pallet or another forklift.

Quick engineer access and diagnostic aids speed up servicing and reduce the related downtime and labour costs. Robust construction, together with effective sealing and protection of key components, further reduces maintenance needs and expense. It also ensures dependable operation, however harsh the conditions. In the long term, this inbuilt durability extends the truck’s life and maximises its residual value.

Boost your output

Advanced electric motor technology generates plenty of power and speed for demanding tasks. Better still, the high torque, acceleration and lifting strength it produces are precisely controlled. As a result, every driving and load handling action is rapid, accurate and smooth.

High-positioned mast tilt cylinders enhance stability and residual lifting capacity. Meanwhile, a compact truck design, responsive steering and intelligent curve control allow fast but safe and precise manoeuvring. For workplaces with restricted height, like containers, all models have the option of a low overhead guard.

For maximum agility, NH (high-performance) models feature a +100⁰ steering axle. With this, the truck can turn on the spot within its own dimensions. It can also make instant side turns with no need for initial backward movement.

Get the best out of your drivers

Comfortable and enjoyable working conditions are a key to optimising drivers’ performance. One of the first things they notice about this truck is its low seating position compared to other large electrics. This means much less climbing for those who have to leave and re-enter the cab frequently.

The spacious operating compartment is rubber-mounted to minimise vibration and noise. Quiet hydraulic pumps, drive units and controllers also help to maintain a pleasant work environment. A high-comfort, fully adjustable seat and ergonomic controls contribute further to avoiding tiredness, fatigue, stress and strain. This is important in preventing job-related illnesses, absences, and slowdowns in work rate, which are costly to businesses.

A fundamental factor in work speed, accuracy and safety is clear vision. The new truck has been designed with good all-round views and even has a rear-view camera fitted as standard. Make your choice There are 15 models, with 7 capacities ranging from 6.0 to 12.0 tonnes. They include standard (N) and high-performance (NH) model choices at each capacity. (Except for 12.0 tonnes, at which only NH is offered.) Many optional extras are available to meet specific application needs and preferences.

Further information on Cat forklifts, warehouse equipment and related services can be found at www.catlifttruck.com. See them in action via https://www.catlifttruck.com/videos and follow the news on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.

More information

#Product Trends

Mitsui Seiki’s Compact VMC Offers High-Precision Milling

The VL30 series is designed to machines high-precision mold inserts for medical, packaging, industrial and aerospace applications.

Mitsui Seiki’s VL30 Series high-speed vertical machining centers were developed for high-speed, high-precision hard milling of mold components, as well as graphite and copper tungsten electrodes. The VL30 Series features high-thrust, high-efficiency linear motor drives for the X-, Y- and Z-axes for machining hardened tool-steel alloy components. The five-axis versions use direct-drive rotary axes for smooth and controlled complex contouring. Delivering up to 1,574 ipm cutting feed rate with 1G acceleration/deceleration, it provides superior speed and motion control in high-speed point milling in multiaxis contouring applications. For accuracy, the precision glass-scale feedback system detects 0.1 μm increments.

The VL30 line is designed to machines high-precision mold inserts for medical, packaging, industrial and aerospace applications. The machine’s upgraded offerings include advanced features for process automation, workpiece and tool handling, and the latest FANUC 31i-B with i-HMI operator interface provides improved output. The latest Graphite Package option enables customers to machine completely dry with no risk of electrode contamination or premature machine wear. All versions enable simple integration with robotics and in-process part inspection.

Available in three models — the VL 30-5X five-axis machining center, as well as the VL 30 and larger VL 50 three-axis versions — this series features a 15-hp, 50,000-rpm spindle accepting HSK E25 tooling for precise roughing and ultra-fine finishing. An integrated tool changer holds up to 90 tools.

Specifications include 7.9″ × 11.8″ × 7.9″ X-, Y- and Z-axis travels, a 11.8″ × 15.8″ table size and a compact 53″ × 128″ footprint.

Enhanced production features include a four-point leveling bed, specialized main components, hand-scraped castings for excellent machine geometry and superior chip and dust evacuation.

在北京时间8月23日的新闻中，前金州勇士队球员奎因-库克在《Jefe Island》节目中回顾了2019年的NBA总决赛。

库克表示：“如果KD没有受伤，我们会赢的，他在G5的复出是我经历过最疯狂的事之一。KD爱篮球，他每一天训练两次，就是为了复出。

“我们不知道他G5会不会打，当他上场时，我们感觉大兄弟回来了，当时我们1-3落后。你能看到他上场后的影响力，他都一个多月没打球了，他第一球就是空心。”

2019年总决赛，勇士2比4不敌猛龙无缘卫冕，KD第5场曾短暂复出，但在那场比赛中再次受伤，遭遇了跟腱撕裂。

布莱斯-詹姆斯，勒布朗-詹姆斯的二儿子，在最近的一次采访中分享了他心目中的历史前五球员名单。有趣的是，他将勒布朗-詹姆斯置于榜首，甚至排在了篮球传奇迈克尔-乔丹之前。

布莱斯心中历史前五人：

勒布朗-詹姆斯

迈克尔-乔丹

科比-布莱恩特

拉塞尔-威斯布鲁克

卡梅隆-安东尼

BETHESDA, MD., January 2019 — The call came in late October 2018 during an after-hours brainstorming session at Xometry. Seeing that the number was from Culver City, California, Vice President of Growth Marketing Aaron Lichtig told fellow colleagues, "I gotta take this call." From inside the meeting room, Bill Cronin, Chief Revenue Officer, and Danny Chang, Vice President of Relationship Marketing, heard him say, "I've been waiting for this call my whole life."

Aaron broke it to colleagues that, no, he was not being recruited elsewhere, and yes, he would appear on the long-running quiz show Jeopardy! To prepare, Aaron began strategically quizzing himself with the help of questions from the Jeopardy! archives and sought out advice from past Jeopardy! winners. He also watched shows and studied specific categories he perceived as his weak spots: literature and movies. "You've heard it in the office," Aaron tells me, when we sit down to discuss the experience. "Everyone makes fun of me because I don't watch a lot of movies."

On Nov. 27, Aaron flew out to Culver City, California to prepare for his taping on Nov. 28. Once at Sony Pictures Studios, Aaron and about a dozen other contestants, including the defending champion and alternates, got ready to compete. When asked about the high number of contestants Aaron explained that they film five episodes in one day.

After arriving at Stage 10, Aaron and his fellow contestants were coached on show rules, went over gameplay, and were styled by production staff. "They put a lot of makeup on us because many people have HDTVs now and you can see everything." The contestants were then led out to the stage where they took headshots and filmed their "Hometown Howdies." 

Then they got to work practicing playing the game, and most importantly, learning how to push the buzzer at the right moment. "Using the buzzer is difficult, even for the best players, because it's a lock-out system." He tells me that once the host finishes reading a question, a light goes on. A contestant can buzz in once the light is on, but if they buzz in before the light goes on, they are locked out for a short period of time. If this happens, the other contestants have a chance to buzz in.

"Even if you know the answer, the odds are that at least one of your competitors knows, too. Getting the timing right on the buzzer is a big part of the game."

During pre-filming time, Aaron also had the opportunity to talk to fellow contestants. "They were a fun and interesting group of people, and I still keep in touch with a number of them." He discussed their qualifications with me as well: "You're playing against people who are really good. Everyone has made it through the audition.”

The audition Aaron mentions is one part of Jeopardy!'s multi-step tryout process. Since 2006, the entry point for Jeopardy! has been a 50-question online test announced just once or twice a year. After the test, contestants may be invited to audition in person for the show, where they take a second test, participate in a personality interview, and play a practice game.

Aaron has been taking the test on and off since they began offering it. In 2010, he was called to audition in person in Chicago but did not make it onto the show. "I was living in Cincinnati, Ohio, at the time, so I drove five hours to get there on a Wednesday night [after work] and auditioned Thursday morning."

Aaron kept taking the test between 2012 and 2018. Then, in February 2018, he got an email inviting him to an audition at the W Hotel in Washington, DC, on a Saturday—only a 25-minute metro ride for the Silver Spring, Maryland, resident. From there, he auditioned and was told, along with all of the other potential contestants, that he could get a call within 18 months inviting him to the show. "They told us to watch for a call from Culver City, California."

Aaron tells me his experience meeting the famed host Alex Trebek was short but sweet. "The first time you really get to talk to him is when you answer your first question." Aaron also witnessed Alex Trebek pivoting on a dime and fielding questions from the audience. "He's so quick on his feet. He has that really calm, grandfatherly way of talking. Very soothing. And he doesn't look a day older than he did 20 years ago. I don't know what he does, but he looks good."

Courtesy ofJeopardy! Productions, Inc.

He adds, "The whole experience of meeting him was very surreal. You've heard him asking questions on television since you were a little kid and then all of a sudden, you're up there and he's asking them to you.”

Before the show airs, Aaron isn't allowed to divulge any of the results. When asked whether or not his colleagues at Xometry would be seeing him in multiple episodes, he said, "You’ll have to watch and see.”

To watch Aaron’s Jeopardy! debut on Thursday, January 24th, click here to find out at what time Jeopardy! airs in your local market.

Serena NgohI write about Xometry and all things manufacturing. You might also see me hosting webinars, designing infographics, producing videos, and working directly with customers to tell their manufacturing success stories.

Read more articles by Serena Ngoh