Measuring Systems Tool Setting and Breakage Detection--Blum LMT - BLUM LMT Inc.

The company will introduce its LaserControl system, which offers tool-setting, breakage detection and in-process measurement of tool length and diameter within the harsh environments of machining centers. The system can monitor within the entire working envelope of a machining center using a visible, red-light laser with a wavelength of 670 nanometers and output capacity of less than 1 m. This falls within the laser Class 2 VDE 0837 and, thus, requires no specific protective measures. Optical components are protected from coolant and chips by a pneumatically operated shutter and air barrier. According to the company, this system is effective in high speed, high velocity precision machining applications where tool integrity is essential.

According to the company, tool length and diameter measurements can be done rapidly with almost no effect on processing time, and repeatability is better than 1 micron. The correct position of all cutters in multi-cutter tools can be checked in both radial and axial directions as the tool rotates. The high measuring frequency of the system permits multiple insert tools to be measured at full nominal rpm, while errors in setting or clamping are identified in only a few seconds.

Measuring cycle routines include the length of concentric tools (such as twist drills) as small as 0.3 mm in diameter; tap drills; engraving needles; reamers; acentric tools (endmills, facemills); milling cutters of unknown length and diameter; and monitoring of single cutting edges such as the rounded edges of ballnose cutters that incorporate cylindrical or conical shafts.

BLUM LMT Inc.
250 Grandview Dr. #10
Fort Mitchell, KY 41017
Phone (859) 344-6789, Fax (859) 344-6799