Why turn to CNC grinders?

Manufacturing Engineering, Sep 1999 by Enk, Randall

Edge Manufacturing (Pevely, MO) is another Okamoto user discovering the benefits of a CNC grinder. We installed their PRG-6XNC CNC rotary surface grinder in January. Edge Manufacturing employs around 50 people who make meat-cutting tools for the food-processing industry. Prior to acquiring the new CNC grinder, they had problems meeting orders. "We were in perpetual backorder mode," recalls design engineer John Woehler. "Our customers were getting pretty mad, which prompted us to make the CNC upgrade.

"We've gained about 50% in orders over last year, in addition to new business we previously turned away, as a result of the CNC. We've realized an 80-100% increase in throughput. Unlike the manual machines that have a person attending them at all times, this machine runs untended, minus loading and unloading.

"Since the wheel compensates automatically, we use it a lot longer. I was able to upgrade to a harder, wider wheel, which benefits me, because I can hold the profile longer."

Operators at Edge Manufacturing have accepted the new technology. "One of my oldest grinder operators has run manual grinders his entire life. Now that he's on the CNC side, he doesn't want to use the manuals anymore. For him to buy into the CNC philosophy, that's huge," says Woehler.

Fairway Mold (Cypress, CA) has also made the upgrade to CNC grinders. The company employs 98 people who specialize in creating molds for medical components, cosmetic lines, dispenser lines, and personal care products.

"The software that came with the ACC-8-20DXNCP CNC grinder used conversational programming. In two weeks, I was making good parts," says Fairway's Steve Pottberg. Fairway's throughput and rejection rates have improved, according to Pottberg. "Some jobs we've done in one-third the time it used to take. I ran hand grinders for 20 years, and when I went to the CNC, the accuracy and repeatability really surprised me."

Fairway's president, Tom Smith, believes the new grinder has improved morale. "We feel it makes for better employees. They learn programming and they come to work with more enthusiasm. They get to do the setup, and they can keep a couple of machines going at one time."

Want More Information?

For information on Okamoto grinders Circle 380.

On October 4, SME sponsors the Third International Machining and Grinding Conference in Cincinnati, OH. Tabletop exhibits will be included. SME publishes several books on grinding and related subjects. Grinding Technology is intended to educate as well as serve as a shop-floor reference. Cutting and Grinding Fluids helps readers match the performance and properties of fluids to the demands of equipment, parts, and tooling. In Principles of Abrasive Processing topics covered range from the production and evaluation of abrasive particles to the theory of comminution. Processes such as internal, external, creepfeed, centerless, belt, and nontraditional grinding are covered. For information on the Conference, or to order books, contact SME's Customer Service Department at 800-7334763, 8 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.