MAZAK Optonics has added tapping capability to its Fabrigear series of laser cutters, expanding multitasking functions of the tube and pipe fabrication machines.

Many fabricators use multiple operations on separate machines to process tubes and pipes. This involves manual handling and refixturing when transferring parts to and fro.

This can be especially problematic when engaging in such operations as tapping, when large workpieces are involved because they are generally harder to handle and refixture.

Multitasking machines such as the FG-150 and FG-300 can reduce these multiple setups thus making for a more efficient and safer operation. According to the company, this means it made sense to add tapping to its large-scale tube and pipe fabrication machines.

According to the machinery manufacturer, with the new technology, tapping can be performed and any type of tube or pipe that the Fabrigear machine can handle. These components can come in various shapes, including square, round, rectangular, I-beam, U-channel, C-channel and L-channel.

The tapping unit can hold six different taps, from size number five to sizes from M3 to M12. Tap rotation and Z-axis travel is provided by a servo motor, resulting in “rigid” tapping characteristics.

Unattended operation is also possible with features such as automatic tap breakage detection, an automatic tap-paste applicator and air-blast removal of debris.

The FG-150 handles workpieces as long as 7.9m and as heavy as 329kg, while the FG-300 accommodates 12m long workpieces weighing as much as 479kg. Both machines have 64-bit CNC controls manipulating six axes of motion and four programmable rotary chucks.
John Hart is the Australian distributor for Mazak Optonics equipment.

http://www.metalworker.com.au/articles/

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