Investing in the future of Photochemical machining

Precision Micro, the West Midlands based specialist Photochemical machining company has installed Laser Direct Imaging (LDI) in its quest for Continuous Process Improvement. (Refer to the picture on the right).

Photochemical machining (PCM) is the process of manufacturing sheet metal components using a photo resist and etchants to selectively remove the unwanted material. PCM can accurately produce highly complex parts, with very fine detail and can provide an economical and technically superior alternative to stamping, punching, laser or water jet cutting, or wire electrical discharge machining (EDM) for thin gauge precision parts.

"Next generation" LDI is used extensively in the manufacture of minute advanced electronics components and it is this very technology in which Precision Micro has made its significant investment. LDI is said to have already provided great benefit to customers, allowing them to develop designs that were previously prohibitive on either technical or economic grounds.

"LDI has enabled us to deliver rapid prototyping even quicker and tool modifications can be carried out in a matter of minutes. Dimensional and positional accuracy across large formats are at new levels with a four fold improvement in pitch accuracy across an 800mm x 600mm sheet." said Managing Director Anthony Marrett. "We have also noted the improved capability has lead to substantial yield improvements."

The new LDI system is reported to have created an increase in demand for tight tolerance components, as a result of the machine's ability to image ultra fine, 15-micron features. Its CCD cameras and image recognition system also provide exceptionally precise front to back feature alignment.

Precision Micro is believed to be the first specialist etching operation to utilise the LDI process. Its philosophy of investing into what is undoubtedly the most advanced etching plant in Europe is reported to be paying dividend in a difficult economic climate.

For further information, e-mail: westonl@precisionmicro.com   Refer to page 152

New Techno iMC-V CAN controller expands
automation possibilities and replaces expensive panels

Techno, Inc. Linear Motion Systems now offer its new iMC-V CAN controller, a single-to six-axis controller unit complete with drives, power supply, I/O, enclosure, onboard computer and 10" touch screen. The iMC-V is compatible with all Techno's gantry tables, linear slides, belt drive actuators and rotary tables and can be used for pick and place, dispensing, assembly, testing, drilling, routing, welding and general automation. 

The new iMC-V CAN controller.

Joe Griffin, Techno Linear Motion Sales Manager states, "The iMC-V controller is a very modular but complete unit allowing the user great flexibility as to the type and number of axes and amount of I/O. The controller card and all modules communicate via the CAN bus for a modular design. Motors can be brushed or brushless and can be configured from one up to six axes in any combination."

There are 16 digital inputs and 8 digital outputs per unit, which can be expanded up to 128 points of I/O through the CAN bus. The iMC-V can also perform linear, circular and helical interpolation, ultimately expanding the applications it can be used for. A rugged industrial desktop enclosure (optional frame mount) with 10" touch screen and keyboard make for a robust system which can operate on the plant floor. Recent applications include a 6-axis version used in the automotive field and a 4-axis version used to manufacture cosmetics. 

To view CAD Drawings, catalog specifications and more information on the iMC-V CAN Controllers view website: http://www.techno-isel.com/tic/Catdas/Multi-AxisServoMotionController.htm or to speak with an Application Engineer, Tel: 1-800-819-3366.

A wide range of Profi hoists with swl capacities from 250kg up to 100 tonnes

The air-operated hoists manufactured by J D Neuhaus are an obvious first choice for chemical applications because of their explosion-proof credentials when operating within hazardous environments. They have over 40 years experience of mechanical handling in plants involved with the manufacture of chemical products, as well as other industries where a potentially dangerous chemical is stored or otherwise used.

The absence of any electrical power supply connection to these hoists maintains their unbeatable safety advantage. Intrinsically safe compressed air presents no ignition risk and is used to power all the lift, lower, traverse and load positioning control functions. Even in conditions of potentially explosive atmospheres such as oil/gas production platforms, the JDN hoists have been providing the reliable, long term answers for the safe and efficient movement of components and materials.

A wide range of Profi hoists with swl capacities from 250kg up to 100 tonnes can be supplied, together with mounting trolleys where overhead rail facilities are required. As supplied in standard form, these products have an Ex rating II 2 GD IIA T4/II 3 GD IIB T4.

These hoists can also be supplied with increased spark protection for Ex ratings of II 2 GD IIB T4 or II 2 GD IIC T4.

These are all rugged, low-headroom products, designed for 100% duty cycles with no down-times which could lead to lost production. They can operate in aggressive conditions, and are insensitive to dust and humidity as well as operating within a temperature range of -20°C to +70°C. Ease of maintenance and lube-free operation are also major features together with a control option providing sensitive, infinitely variable speed control for precise positioning of loads.

JDN air hoists also offer full compliance with the Machinery Directive, having an overload protection device on all products with load capacities from 1000kg. This ensures that the hoist motor stops at the point a potential overload occurs, without any damage occurring. There is no motor overheating in stall torque or jamming conditions.

JDN mini hoists and manipulators, with swl capacities from 125 - 980kg are also available for light/medium duty operations.

Neuhaus air operated hoists Profi 1.5 Ti and Profi 3 Ti/2 

The air operated hoists Profi 1.5 Ti and Profi 3 Ti/2 hoists from J D Neuhaus offer load capacities of 1.6 and 3.2 tonnes respectively. These products feature a 2kW vane motor which combines high performance with reliable operation even under extended operation and full load conditions. These products complement their existing Profi hoist range covering load capacities from 0.25 to 100 tonnes.

The JDN Profi series air powered hoist unit can be used underwater, providing certain additional servicing procedures are carried out, and will be of particular interest for users in offshore operations.

A particular air operated monorail hoist from the JDN EH range can be supplied with individual load capacities from 10 up to 100 tonnes, and have been specifically developed for the offshore industry where the safe and efficient movement of heavy loads within conditions of limited space and reduced headroom are encountered. The EH hoists can also be used in tandem on parallel overhead tracks for the effective handling of BOP equipment.

For lighter duty operations, J D Neuhaus Mini series air operated hoists, designed for loads from 125 to 980kg, can also be supplied with a trolley for overhead rail mounting, as well as a manipulator version for single handed operation providing maximum versatility.

Air operated winches for general lift and pull operations include a range covering capacities from 500 to 3500kg and includes optional features such as pulling frames, extended drums and rope spoolers etc.

All the JDN air operated equipment is supplied with offshore ratings of Ex 3 GD 11A T4 (X), with optional higher ratings where increased spark protection is specified.

Other handling equipment, for use in 'safe area' conditions, from the JDN Kito products, include an ER 2 electric powered chain hoist, from a range covering load capacities from 125kg up to 20 tonnes with optional manual or motorised overhead trolleys. This will be complemented by a CB series manual chain hoist (available for loads from 0.5 to 50 tonnes), together with a typical Kito LB series lever hoist.

For further information, e-mail: info@jdneuhaus.co.uk or view website: www.jdneuhaus.co.uk   Refer to page 171