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Process allows tube threading in very short cycle times

Suhner, in cooperation with Wagner, has developed a process that allows threading operations in very short cycle times. The workpiece is fed from barstock material. After a cut-to-length operation, it is machined by three BEX15 machining units with Weldon toolholders. Operations include OD/ID and face turning. All units are equipped with a 1.5-kW motor and high-precision angular contact spindle bearings.

OD threading is accomplished with a BEX35-ISO40 machining unit equipped with a Wagner type Z27-2 thread-rolling head. In this operation, the thread-rolling head is rotating and the workpiece is stationary. The feed motion for this station is done with a CNC slide unit. To synchronize the thread pitch, both the BEX35 spindle and CNC slide are servomotor-driven.

As soon as the threading operation is finished, the thread-rolling head with integrated inserts opens quickly to allow a fast return to the home position. The head is opened and closed by an internal BEX35 drawbar, controlled by a three-position pneumatic cylinder. The cylinder is designed to make an additional stroke of 0.39 in. to allow for head and insert adjustments or replacements, depending on thread size.