Manufacturers continually seek ways to maximise productivity and efficiency. Today, those efforts frequently involve high-level programs that employ buzzwords that include cloud computing, data-driven manufacturing, cyber-physical systems and Industry4.0. These advanced initiatives are excellent concepts and can produce impressive results. However, manufacturing realities often interfere with the implementation of such ambitious plans, and a critical reality is the presence of uncontrolled waste in the manufacturing process. Before discussing digitisation and optimisation, it is necessary for a manufacturer to examine its operations, determine where waste occurs, and develop methods to reduce or eliminate it. Controlling waste is the first step in preparing a manufacturing company for the adoption of sophisticated smart manufacturing strategies. Figure 1 – Total image of all elements and how they relate and interact, in a manufacturing plant (NEXT STEP model and concept).

Seco Tools recently adapted its line of reliable, accurate thread chaser holders to support Steadyline^® vibration damping bars and Capto tooling. With special carbide-pin locating systems, patented pocket seat surface patterns and high-pressure coolant delivery, these holders guarantee consistent insert positioning, superior rigidity and effective chip evacuation Adapted for tooling with Capto C6, Capto C8 or Steadyline GL50 connections, these new holders accommodate a wide selection of multi-tooth chasers or single-tooth inserts that efficiently perform external and internal threading operations, providing increased options and added flexibility for push or pull configurations. Previously available in a square shank design, Seco’s thread chaser holders produce API and common licensed thread profiles across the full range of OCTG materials.

Seco Tools has expanded its family of PCBN insert grades to cover the entire spectrum of hard part turning applications. Using a new bimodal substrate and coating process, these new inserts extend tool life and increase productivity in a broader range of applications. Seco’s PCBN grade chain for materials ranging from ISO H05 to H35 consists of CH0550, CBN060K, CH2540 and CH3515 and is designed specifically for turning case hardened steels. They incorporate advanced coatings and a bimodal substrate with coarser grain materials, along with optimized cutting edge profiles for long and predictable machining performance.