CUTTING STRATEGY
The ELS can turn threads with 4 dierent infeed methods:
1. Radial infeed with gradually decreasing infeeds
2. Simple ank infeed with even infeeds
3. Modied ank infeed with even infeeds
4. Alternating ank infeed with even infeeds
These are the methods currently used in industry, the last three are actually only feasible on
CNC machines, or with the ELS!
Simply explained, for radial infeed the machine only feeds in X, i.e. both cutting edges are en-
gaged, towards the end with a very large surface, which quickly leads to rattling, and often also
to unattractive surfaces. Not recommended!
The simple ank infeed is therefore much better, whereby depending on the ank angle not
only X but also Z is infeeded at the same time. This means that only the left side of the cutting
edge is in contact, the chips ow o well and the surfaces becomes good. The disadvantage
is the one-sided wear of the cutting edges and that the right side of the cutting edge may rub
against the material and the surface on the side may become unattractive. This is the same
method that one learns as a lathe operator by tilting the top slide in order to be able to then
feed it at an angle.
It is absolutely necessary to enter the ank angle in the parameter menu!
The modied ank infeed is an extension. It cuts on both sides, but very little on the right
side. This leads to better surfaces and good chip control, but is worse on weak machines than
method no. 2. Recommended!
The alternating ank feed goes one step further and ensures the use of both cutting edges
as well as step-by-step feed, which leads to low loads and good tool life. Unfortunately, this is
only possible if you have a backlash-free drive on the Z-axis. This is not possible with trapezoi-
dal threaded spindles, because the lock nut sometimes loses contact and the slide no longer
remains in position. This mode is therefore reserved for those who have a recirculating ball
screw on the machine.
On the next page you will nd an explanation of the dierent methods.
Available parameters in the parameter menu:
• Thread angle - ank angle of the thread. Usually 60° (metric) or 55° (inch), but everything can
be set between 10 and 90°.
• Cut Mode - One of the Top Choices
• Cone ratio - information required for tapered threads. See „Tapered threads“ later in this
manual.
70
To Next Page
Loading...