Keeping CNC lathe windows clear of coolants
September 2002
Maintenance, Test & Measurement, Calibration
The Air Disk Window Blowoff from EXAIR gives the machine operator a clear view of the part and the machining operation when coolants or cutting fluids are used.
To keep up with the constantly increasing feeds and speeds of today's machine tools, high volumes of flood coolant must be used. As a result, a heavy coolant spray is often thrown against the window that eliminates visibility of the part and the machining process.
Making use of airflow technology, the Air Disk Window Blowoff provides a 360° airstream that blows outward from the centre of the window. As can be seen in the picture, with the airflow to the device cut off, the window is opaque (top). With the air supply on, the window is clear (bottom).
Advantages to be had include:
* Faster machine set-up and part tests.
* Avoidance of costly mistakes, eliminating downtime and damage to the tools and the machine.
* Increase productivity.
* Easier to monitor tool condition - to determine if replacement is necessary.
The device runs on compressed air and has no moving parts (no mechanical wiper to scratch the window) - which means that the installation is not costly. Adhesive holds the device in place in the centre of the window, so there is no need to make any holes in the window. The device is optimised for efficient use of compressed air, minimising consumption and maximising the air-wiping effect. Air supply to the device may be throttled to cater for heavy/light wiping requirements.
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