Production Technology at IMTS: Collet Systems, Threading Inserts and More

Collet Systems and Guide Bushings from Hardinge


Hardinge Inc., an international provider of advanced metal‐cutting solutions, has announced their product highlights for IMTS 2016.

Quick Change FlexC Collet Systems

Hardinge Quick Change FlexC Collet Systems provide fast changeover, high accuracy, and a wide gripping range for stock variation when compared to traditional collets. Hardinge will be displaying a new line of accessories for the FlexC system including ID Gripping Solutions, additional OD Gripping Solutions, special part ejectors and more. FlexC is available in 42mm, 65mm, and 80mm sizes and can be installed on all machine brands.

Sure-Grip Expanding Collet Systems

ID gripping is made easy with the patented Hardinge Sure-Grip Expanding Collet System. The extremely accurate Hardinge Sure-Grip Expanding Collet provides provisions for part length control built into its design and provides fast change over times. Also, Hardinge provides custom ID Gripping solutions to meet the most difficult ID Workholding requirements.

Swiss-Style Collets and Guide Bushings

Hardinge manufactures collets and guide bushings for all brands of Swiss-style machines. On display at IMTS will be the full range of Hardinge Swiss Workholding including Overgrip Collets, Meehanite Collets, Carbide Lined Collets, Special Slot Collets & Guide Bushings, Bar Loader Collets and more. Hardinge collets are precision ground to meet the TIR and Surface Finish specifications required in the Swiss industry.

For more information, visit Hardinge at IMTS in booth #W-1400, or visit www.hardinge.com.


Threading Inserts from Kaiser Tool Company, Inc.


THINBIT, manufactured by Kaiser Tool Company, has announced the expansion of their GROOVE ‘N TURN line with ACME THREADING inserts. 

ACME THREADING inserts are designed to cut thread sizes 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 and 16 threads per inch. Tools have geometry to cut standard 29° acme thread profiles.  Inserts can be used to cut centralizing or stub profiles by overcutting.  The inserts can be used for internal acme threads on parts with bore diameters of 1.250” and larger.

Available in sub-micron grain carbide grades for ferrous and non-ferrous materials either uncoated or with TiN, TiCN, TiAIN or diamond film coatings. GROOVE ‘N TURN ACME THREADING inserts can be used on conventional, Swiss and CNC machines.

Toolholders are available in square shank size 5/16” through 1-1/4” and round shank sizes 1/2” through 1” with straight and 90o presentations.  GROOVE ‘N TURN ACME THREADING inserts fit existing “L” series THINBIT toolholders.

THINBIT offers an extensive selection of 60º thread forms for both internal and external threading.  Custom thread profiles with deliveries from 5 working days are available.

To learn more, visit Kaiser Tool Company at IMTS in booth #W-2172, and visit www.thinbit.com.


KNCS-2G Quick Jaw Change Chucks from SMW Autoblok


At IMTS 2016, SMW Autoblok will be featuring the KNCS-2G next generation of quick jaw change chucks. The KNCS-2G offers the same superior flexibility, minimal set up times, and high repeatability as the original KNCS-N, but with added protection and efficiency, making it ideal for mass production applications.

With its optimized lubrication system, the KNCS-2G is designed to save time and money in maintenance and upkeep. The original KNCS-N needed lubrication every shift, but the 2G’s optimized jaw guide ways make lubrication necessary only every third shift.

Additional channels and grease pockets in the jaw guide ways help the chuck operate for longer, while seals in the chuck body and base jaws of the KNCS-2G provide an extra defense against chips, lubricant and other debris.

The chamfered guide ways of the KNCS-2G allows for jaws to be changed in less than 60 seconds, making this chuck ideal for machines that require frequent setup changes. The ability to interchange jaw with the standard KNCS-N offers added flexibility by allowing existing master jaws to be used without sealing. These features, in combination with a low loss of grip force due to centrifugal force, make this chuck well suited for high-speed applications.

To see the KNCS-2G and other innovative products from SMW Autoblok, visit them at IMTS in Booth# W-1400 or online at www.smwautoblok.com.