Software Offers New Toolpaths

Shops micromachining extremely small part features have always had to use larger more-expensive machine tools for such jobs, that is until now. Culminating from seven years of micromachining research at the University of Illinois, the 310-S micro-milling system offers shops a full-size machine tool platform shrunk down to one with axis travels measuring only 1.97 in. for milling part features as small as 0.0025 in. in plastic and metal workpieces.

Designed by Microlution Inc. (www.microlution-inc.com), the 310-S may have a small footprint, but the company says it packs the spindle speed, acceleration and accuracy necessary for micromachining. Spindle speeds range from 80,000 rpm to 200,000 rpm, and the machine accelerates at a 5-G maximum, positions to within 1 micron and delivers a resolution of 0.02 micron.

According to Andy Philip, president of Microlution, shops micromachining tiny plastic prototype parts, for example, are especially interested in the 310-S because it allows them to directly fabricate such parts instead of having to purchase a mold for producing only a few test parts. He says that intricate prototype molds can cost upwards of $40,000, and waiting for them adds to a job's leadtime.

More 310-S micro-milling machine features

• AC linear motors on X, Y and Z stages
• Heidenhain linear optical encoders on X, Y and Z stages
• Precision granite support structures
• High-performance, openarchitecture Delta Tau CNC