Speeds, feeds, cycle times and throughput have long been key criteria for measuring CNC machine performance. That’s why the leading machine tool and peripheral OEMs keep finding ways to make their products faster, easier to use and more capable.
While advancements such as automatic tool changers, quick-change fixtures and faster bar feeder changeovers are significant, arguably the most important manufacturing trend today is collecting and using data to continuously improve performance.
The problem many CNC shops face is not a lack of data, but rather being overwhelmed with information they can’t get their arms around. Sifting through reams of data from various sources within the manufacturing process is time-consuming and can be difficult to analyze and use effectively.
One solution is to enable machines to interconnect and bilaterally share data among themselves, using this information to make production decisions that improve productivity, reduce material waste and alert users of machine health issues – all without human intervention.
The LNS eConnect Ethernet communications system, for example, enables an LNS bar feeder to communicate with a CNC machine’s master production schedule. The system continuously monitors material usage and when the shared data indicates that there is not enough material left to make the next part in a given run, the system scans the master production schedule to find another part in the queue that can be made from the remnant. When the part is identified, the machine tool and bar feeder automatically adjust to make the selected part or parts. Once the bar is used up, the bar feeder loads the next bar and the system repeats the process until it makes all of the scheduled parts.
Additionally, e-Connect monitors performance and sends alerts for any health issues with the LNS bar feeder, chip conveyor, and high-pressure coolant system. It even tracks the the filter life of LNS oil/coolant mist collectors and notifies when the filter is due for replacement. Plus, e-Connect also manages the coolant delivery pressures of LNS ChipBLASTER high pressure systems .
Because all of this data is integrated and processed within one system, machine operators are free to tend multiple work cells while e-Connect does the monitoring and reporting that reduces labor and material costs.
To learn more about LNS e-Connect and other ways to adopt the latest manufacturing trends to improve productivity and reduce costs, contact your local LNS representative, call 513-528-5674 or email: allproducts-sales@LNS-northamerica.com.