Okuma, Okamoto and ACCRETECH join forces for PS in Osaka

Okuma, Okamoto Machine Tool Works, and TOKYO SEIMITSU (known as ACCRETECH), the three companies with sales offices and showrooms near Esaka Station on the Osaka Metro Midosuji Line, held private shows on February 2 and 3, 2023. By having the three companies within walking distance of each other on the same day, visitors had a great opportunity to efficiently view actual machines. The event was held annually before the pandemic, but it has been three years since the last event; compared to the 2020 event, the automation proposals have expanded and the exhibition themes have changed.

Proposal for automation with robots

Automated workpiece replacement using a combination of MC and robot / Okuma

Okuma exhibited its “smarTwinCELL” cell controller, which supports machine tool operators using industrial robots, and other products.

A live demonstration of smarTwinCELL linking a vertical machining center “MB-46VA” with an industrial robot from Yaskawa Electric was presented at the venue. The smarTwinCELL is designed to simplify the process of generating a motion path for the robot by allowing the operator to simply set the start and end points of the robot’s motion, thus reducing the time and effort required for teaching. The interface is similar to that of a machine tool control panel, and the robot can be operated with a pulse handle, making it easy for machine tool operators to use.

“In the three years between the 2020 event and this year’s exhibition, the trends in the machine tool industry have changed. Automation, decarbonization, and digitalization are now in demand,” commented Okuma’s Osaka branch manager. He also noted that while projects for semiconductors have calmed down, there are still many projects for construction and agricultural machinery in western Japan.

Boost automation and standardization

Okamoto Machine Tool Works exhibited a total of four models, including its “HPG500NC” CNC form grinder.

Visitors listen intently to the person in charge / Okamoto Machine Tool Works

The HPG500NC is an upgraded version of the previous model, the HPG500, which retains its handle operation but is now equipped with an NC device. The new model uses interactive software for advanced operations, making it easier to perform grinding cycles and wheel shaping, and helping to standardize operations. “The HPG500NC has improved rigidity compared to the previous machine,” said the company’s Osaka sales manager. “The price range, which makes it easy for customers to consider installing the machine, is also an attractive feature,” he explained.

In addition to the HPG500NC, Okamoto also exhibited three other models: the “PSG64CA-iQ” surface grinder, suitable for machining large workpieces, the “OGM250EXIII” cylindrical grinder, featuring automatic dressing and corrective infeed functions, and the “PRG6DXNC” rotary surface grinder, with a unique double-column structure.

The sales manager proudly stated, “In addition to the surface grinders, cylindrical grinders, and form grinders on display at this event, we also have a lineup of internal grinding machines that can handle the entire range of grinding processes.

New measuring device proposal for EVs

Display of measuring instruments for a wide range of applications / ACCRETECH

ACCRETECH exhibited a total of 17 models, including the “METROTOM 1”, a measuring X-ray CT system from Carl Zeiss of Germany, and the “XYZAX AXCEL PH”, a coordinate measuring machine. The METROTOM 1 integrates the functions of a coordinate measuring machine, microscope, X-ray inspection system and 3D scanner into a single unit.

The company also introduced the “Shaftcom C Series”, which is specially designed for measuring shafts used in electric vehicles and other products via video and panels.

“We are focusing on our lineup for EVs. The METROTOM 1 is highly suitable for non-destructive testing of aluminum parts, which are widely used in the production of EVs,” emphasized ACCRETECH’s Osaka sales manager.