5ME and Okuma Join Forces to Demonstrate the Advantages of Aerospace Part Processing via Cryogenic Machining
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Two test facilities – in Michigan and North Carolina – invite aerospace manufacturers to present real-world challenges and leverage the advantages of cryogenic machining technology for production applications.
5ME and Okuma America have joined forces to demonstrate the advantages of cryogenic machining, including faster processing, longer tool life, increased part quality and lower environmental impact. The strategic partnership will establish two cryo demonstration facilities – one at 5ME's Technical Center in Warren, MI and the other at Okuma's Aerospace Center of Excellence in Charlotte, NC – where manufacturers can test various machining processes using 5ME's cryogenic machining technology. Both facilities will have Okuma machines equipped with cryogenic systems that use vacuum jacketed feed lines to deliver small flow rates of liquid nitrogen (LN2) through the tool directly to the cutting edge. "Cryogenic machining is particularly suited to the processing of tough materials like hardened/stainless/alloy steels, Inconel, and titanium, commonly used in aerospace part production, said Pete Tecos, Executive Vice President of 5ME. "Okuma was an early adopter of cryogenic machining and this partnership will continue the development of cryogenic machining applications, and allow manufacturers to present real-world production challenges to determine how cryo can provide a solution."
5ME's unique, multi-patented cryogenic machining process is a breakthrough technology that enables higher cutting speeds for increased material removal and longer tool life by transmitting liquid nitrogen at 321°F through the spindle/turret and tool body, directly to the cutting edge. This environmentally friendly metal-cutting technology increases throughput, part quality, tool life, and profitability while reducing energy consumption. "This partnership gives us the opportunity to show the productivity-boosting, energy-saving qualities of cryogenic machining, and assist aerospace manufacturers in their quest to meet tough part processing challenges," said Wade Anderson, Product Specialist Manager, Okuma America Corp.
Aerospace Manufacturers already use Okuma's 10,000-square foot Aerospace Center of Excellence as a testing and proving ground for advanced CNC machining technology. The facility includes nine CNC machines designed for the aerospace market, as well as a fully operational metrology room with CMM equipment and other quality measurement devices.
5ME, also a member of Okuma's "Partners in THINC" program, has developed a proven suite of capabilities that focus on increasing customers' manufacturing efficiency as a means of building profitable, competitive and sustainable businesses. 5ME solutions – which include cryogenic machining systems and process development, as well as asset monitoring and enterprise software suites – address the five critical components of Man, Material, Machines, Methods and Metrics (the "M's") to improve a manufacturing enterprise's efficiency (the "E").
For more information visit www.5ME.com or contact Pete Tecos at pete.tecos@5ME.com, or 586-202-3285.
About 5ME
5ME brings a proven suite of capabilities to industry, solely focused on increasing customers' manufacturing efficiency as a means of building profitable, competitive and sustainable businesses. Today, that mission is more critical than ever as manufacturers are under increasing pressure from agile competitors, capacity constraints, material cost increases, and skilled labor shortages. The 5ME services and products portfolio of Cryogenic Machining Technology and Manufacturing Efficiency Software are brand agnostic, allowing solutions to be applied to all types of machinery and manufacturing systems. For more information, visit www.5ME.com.
About Okuma America Corporation
Okuma America Corporation is the U.S.-based sales and service affiliate of Okuma Corporation, a world leader in CNC (computer numeric control) machine tools, founded in 1898 in Nagoya, Japan. The company is the industry's only single-source provider, with the CNC machine, drive, motors, encoders, spindle and CNC control all manufactured by Okuma. Okuma's innovative and reliable technology, paired with comprehensive, localized service protection, allows users to run continuously with confidence – maximizing profitability. Along with its industry-leading distribution network (largest in the Americas), and Partners in THINC, Okuma facilitates quality, productivity and efficiency, empowering the customer and enabling competitive advantage in today's demanding manufacturing environment. For more information, visit www.okuma.com or follow us on Facebook or Twitter at @OkumaAmerica.
About Partners in THINC
Partners in THINC is a collaboration network of more than 40 industry leaders who come together to solve problems and explore new productivity ideas for real-world manufacturers. With the open architecture, PC-based THINC-OSP control as its nucleus, Partners in THINC brings specialized equipment, expertise and a commitment to provide the best possible integrated solutions to the end-user. For more information, visit www.okuma.com/partnersinthinc.
Contact:
Pete Tecos
Executive VP Marketing and Product Strategy
5MEÂ Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â
+1 586-202-3285Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â
pete.tecos@5ME.com  Â
