http:// 2013-02-21T09:54:39Z 2013-02-21T09:54:39Z solidtec-solutions-recognised-as-top-reseller-in-2012

Melbourne, 15 February 2013 –Solidtec Solutions, provider of the industry-leading 3D CAD software SolidWorks, has been recognised as the top performing SolidWorks reseller in Asia Pacific South. In addition to this recognition by Dassault Systemes SolidWorks Corporation, the company has recently been named one of the top performing technology resellers in the Australian IT Channel, rated 27th in the CRN Top 50 Awards. CRN Fast50 rates the top performing companies in the channel according to revenue growth. “I would like to take the opportunity to thank all of our customers and staff for making 2012 our best year yet,” says Shane Preston, CEO of Solidtec Solutions ANZ. During 2012, Solidtec's revenue grew by more than 32% over its 2011 revenue of $6.2M. The company's user base also grew to over 1200 customers in 2012, which represented an increase of 28% over 2011. To support this dramatic growth, Solidtec added 16 new employees in 2012.  Solidtec Solutions attributes its growth to its strong focus on customer service, understanding their customers’ businesses and the alignment of the SolidWorks suite of products, including SolidWorks Simulation, Enterprise PDM and SolidWorks Composer, to the specific needs of small and mid-sized businesses.“Drawing on many years of expertise in Australia’s and New Zealand’s manufacturing, engineering, design and mining industries, we continue to evolve and improve our services, and selling the highest amount of SolidWorks licences across Asia Pacific South in 2012 demonstrates our commitment to adding value to our customers’ businesses through our technical expertise,” Mr Preston, says. According to Mr Preston, one of Solidtec’s key differentiators is the expertise and qualifications of its technical team. “We provide our customers with access to Application Engineers who know and understand their business, and who are, of course, highly certified in SolidWorks to provide responsive and knowledgeable technical support to keep our customers’ productivity levels up.”Solidtec boasts some of the best engineering talents in the business and is proud of its growing team of certified SolidWorks Application Engineers.  Three of Solidtec’s Application Engineers, one in NZ and two in Australia, have been awarded Elite Application Engineer status in the last 12 months.“Solidtec is focussed on having our technical team achieve the highest standards possible,” Mr Preston says and adds that “as a result we have the largest number of SolidWorks technical certifications in Australia and New Zealand – with almost 100 SolidWorks technical certifications and three Elite Application Engineers.”In 2012, Solidtec Solutions strengthened its focus on the SolidWorks Community with the addition of a number of initiatives including Solidtec Webtec’s free technical web training on SolidWorks and Simulation, as well as new products including SolidWorks Electrical and SolidWorks Plastics. The two new add-ons are not part of the core SolidWorks design software. They mark the company’s introduction of two new products, designed to improve integration of functional teams involved in the design process.2013: Looking Ahead Solidtec Solutions expects 2013 to be another high-growth year for the company.  During the next 12 months, the company expects to announce the following:•    New training initiatives to ensure Solidtec customers are optimally trained in the SolidWorks Suite of products•    Increased technical expertise  •    Even faster response to customer technical support queries"2012 was amazing for Solidtec and as we head into 2013, we're looking forward to another record-breaking year," Mr Preston comments.  "Our success is the result of the concerted effort of our fantastic team and our focus on becoming true business partners with our customers.  As we head into 2013, we're counting on more of the same to propel our company and our customers' companies forward."www.solidtec.com.au

2012-11-10T02:32:49Z dmg-mori-seiki-meeting-the-challenge-of-storing-green-energy

Melbourne, 10 November 2012 – For years, the stumbling block for making renewable energy practical and dependable has been how to store electricity when the sun isn't shining and the wind isn't blowing. But with new technologies this goal is now within reach. Gildemeister Energy Solutions (a DMG company) has developed the innovative CellCube, a powerful, durable and low maintenance vanadium redox flow large scale storage solution following many years of research. “The Australian market is ready for a storage solution, that’s what everybody has been waiting for,” said  Neil Buchan, Sales Support Team Leader at DMG/Mori Seiki, at the recently held All-Energy exhibition in Melbourne. “The show is a good opportunity for us to show our new product range, including our solutions to generate renewable energy, the WindCarrier and SunCarrier systems.” The energy store CellCube allows independent and flexible utilisation of the electricity generated by solar power plants and wind turbines, thus serving as an uninterrupted power supply, even in the dark and when there is no wind. “The battery system ensures a clean, emission-free and fast energy supply at all times,” added Nash Dhruve, Finance Controller at DMG/Mori Seiki, who has largely been involved in organising the company’s stand at the All-Energy exhibition. “The system is very reliable and allows stable storage and very fast reaction times. The CellCube can be incorporated into everyday energy systems, which makes it suitable for remote operations in Australia, who need to be – or want to be – independent of local council grids.” CellCube is suitable for small businesses, SMEs as well as large corporations in the mining industry, or as a reliable energy storage and supply for telecommunication networks in regions without a grid or with unstable grids. Nash added that now was the time to invest in renewable energy, as the government is supporting companies with a $800,000 grant. “Every dollar spent by companies is matched by the government, which makes the CellCube system very affordable with a payback period of only 3-4 years,” he said. “Considering the product comes with a life-long warranty, the return on investment is very attractive!” The federal government is providing a range of assistance measures to small businesses as a part of its Clean Energy Future program. The Clean Energy Technology Program provides grants for businesses and manufacturers to invest in energy efficiency initiatives. DMG/Mori Seiki invites all companies interested in the grant and how it works to contact the team, who are happy to help and assist with all necessary information and paperwork. “We want to create partnerships with our customers and help them apply for the government grant, which can be a very complicated procedure,” Nash explains. “We don't only sell a product, but provide total solutions. We know that applying for government assistance is a really complex process, so we take the paperwork off our customers who decide to invest in renewable energy solutions such as the CellCube.” However, providing such assistance and complete solutions to customers wasn’t possible without the backend support in the DMG/Mori Seiki offices, President Stefan Weiwadel emphasises. Neil, a fitter and turner by trade, and Nash have been with the company for more than six years, providing financial support, accounting, quotations or logistics services to the team, while Stephanie Hansford, Accounts and Sales Support Executive at DMG/Mori Seiki, makes sure she pulls the right strings to steer the team into one direction. Since March this year she has also been responsible for marketing and trade show support, and played a major role in organising the company’s participation in the All-Energy exhibition. For more information on the Gildemeister energy solutions as well as the government’s Clean Energy Technology Program and the available grants, please contact our Melbourne office 03 8545 0900. Contact:DMG Mori Seiki Australia Pty Ltd 6 - 6 Garden Road Clayton, 3168, VIC Phone: 03 8545 0900 www.dmgmoriseiki.com

2012-10-25T02:47:51Z tasman-machinery-open-house-3d-printing-in-action

Melbourne, 25 October 2012 – 3D printers and production systems in action are just some of the highlights people can expect to see at Tasman Machinery’s Open House event in Cheltenham, VIC, on Wednesday 14 November 2012. Customers and interested organisations considering a purchase of a 3D printing system are invited to Tasman’s showroom from 1pm – 5pm to learn more about Stratasys’ full product range and the advantages of Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) technology. The event will feature demonstrations of the Fortus 400mc production system, the Dimension Elite 3D printer, the uprint SE print pack as well as the recently launched Mojo desktop printer. Visitors will have the opportunity to get an understanding of the Stratasys products, which range from very affordable desktop printers to full-scale production systems, suitable for the manufacture of prototypes and end-use parts. “We are excited to have Stratasys application engineers from the U.S. at hand during the event who will be happy to talk to visitors and explain the technology on show,” says Managing Director Dermid McKinley. “Visitors will have the opportunity to learn the latest advances being made by Stratasys, the world’s leading supplier of 3D printers. Apart from 3D printers and production systems, Tasman Machinery will showcase a smoothing station and explain sealing and bonding methods for FDM parts. Moreover, the friendly Tasman staff will explain how additive technology can be applied for full-fledged manufacturing solutions, which is referred to as additive manufacturing or direct digital manufacturing (DDM). “Increasingly, Australian companies are applying it to manufacturing applications, and with each success, they prove that it is a viable alternative,” Mr McKinley explains. Stratasys’ compact and affordable Mojo 3D printer will also be a crowd puller, because it comes with a price tag which makes it affordable for virtually anyone. Like other 3D printers from Stratasys, the Mojo unit builds parts through FDM – a process that creates resilient plastic parts out of durable & strong ABS thermoplastic. Applications of FDM therefore extend beyond prototyping to include functional tools, fixtures and end-use parts. Tasman Machinery looks forward to meeting everyone interested in 3D printing – drinks and nibbles will be provided. Please RSVP to Helen, Helen@tasmanmachinery.com.au, Ph:  03 9584 8355 More info on www.3dproduction.com.au

2012-10-18T01:49:56Z parish-engineering-looks-to-discover-new-markets

Melbourne, 18 October 2012 – Melbourne-based Parish Engineering has recently invested in an Index turn-mill centre to keep up with production and enter new markets. The family-owned business, which specialises in repetition engineering for a wide range of industries, has also recruited Paul Rafferty as its Business Development Manager. Mr Rafferty will lead the company’s expansion efforts into the mining, medical, defence and heavy manufacturing industries. He brings to the job an impressive track record of success, having served more than 38 years at Australian repetition engineering companies where he held multiple executive positions. “After we have seen a significant decline within the automotive industry in recent years, we decided to expand into growing markets and industries,” Mr Rafferty says. “In order to service these and other industries – which require more complex components with a high degree of accuracy in exotic materials – we recently invested in an Index turn-mill centre, which will help us meet these requirements.” The compact turn-mill centre G200 is designed for complete machining and features a B-axis for inclined, off-centre drilling and milling, and an additional milling spindle. The option for simultaneous machining on the main and counter spindles results in reduced cycle times. It features a bar loading capacity of up to 65mm and 28 tool stations. The G200 is engineered for high-precision machining of simple and highly complex parts in small to large batch sizes. “In the past, our main focus has been in high volume repetition machining on up to 6-axis conventional and sliding headstock CNC turn-mill lathes,” says Parish Engineering CEO Nicole Sinclair. “However, we were lacking in capabilities to handle larger and more complex components. We have seen growth in the requirements for these large, complex components which was the main driver for purchasing a machine with a Y- and B-axis.” With the additional B-axis in the upper tool carrier, Parish Engineering is now equipped to machine highly complex parts and complicated contour elements that also require additional operations such as milling, drilling, lateral drilling or transversal threading. “Tapping into industries like defence and medical requires accurate and versatile machines, and the investment in our Index turn-mill centre will certainly pay off,” Ms Sinclair says. “Moreover, Paul’s 38 years experience and extensive knowledge of the manufacturing industry will be beneficial to our drive to expand into these industries.” About Parish Engineering Parish Engineering is a family owned, Australian repetition engineering company manufacturing quality process components for a wide range of industries. Established over 60 years ago, the company is in the enviable position of being small enough to offer personal contact with the owners of the business, yet big enough to provide the most sophisticated technology in Australia. Parish has the equipment, including the latest CNC machines and automatic lathes, to produce components from the simplest to the most complex. And by keeping up with the latest technology, Parish stays in front to offer speed, accuracy and extremely competitive pricing.  www.parishengineering.com.au

2012-09-24T07:25:31Z how-can-businesses-benefit-from-direct-digital-manufacturing-ddm

Companies in Australia have discovered that direct digital manufacturing is a powerful alternative, rather than a direct replacement, to the conventional manufacturing processes. Over the past 20 years additive manufacturing technology has migrated from use in rapid prototyping to a full-fledged manufacturing solution, which is referred to as additive manufacturing or direct digital manufacturing (DDM). Increasingly, Australian companies are applying it to manufacturing applications, and with each success, they prove that it is a viable alternative. For Sydney-based T R Savage & Sons for instance, DDM offers an alternative to conventional metal-cutting manufacturing methods such as milling or turning, and the time savings are immense. “There are virtually no delays in moving from a robust digital design to the manufacturing process,” Savage Design Director Joel Savage says. “While it might have taken about a week to produce a jig in our machine shop in the past, the direct, uninterrupted progression from concept to part reduces the manufacturing time to as little as one day!” While the general concept of additive manufacturing is the same as when it was introduced 20 years ago, the change is in its intended use: production, not just prototyping. So while the concept has been around for a while, in the minds of many, direct digital manufacturing is a new thing and sometimes difficult to understand. DDM is the process of using CAD or other data to drive an additive manufacturing machine that makes usable parts. Examples are the components that go into sellable products, pieces of production machinery, replacement parts, or manufacturing tools, such as jigs and fixtures. Besides CAD data, which is the overwhelming majority of data used, other types of data may be used to drive additive manufacturing machines. Among others it includes 3D scan data (for reverse engineering) and DICOM data (for making a physical representation of 3D medical imagery). DDM eliminates moulding, machining Direct digital manufacturing eliminates moulding, machining, casting and forming. Instead of material removal or shaping, a company’s finished goods are produced by adding material one layer at a time. Other than a few minutes of pre-processing to prepare a production run and some light post-processing to clean up a part, DDM progresses directly from CAD data to final part. “Eliminating the up-front and back-end operations common to traditional methods means that there is no extraneous time, cost, or labour,” Tasman Machinery Managing Director Dermid McKinley explains. “Replacing traditional machining methods with DDM offers increased efficiency, flexibility, responsiveness and affordability for our customers. DDM introduces fantastic alternatives in product design, manufacturing methodology and business operations, ultimately helping local manufacturing businesses to become more competitive.” DDM offers unique and powerful advantages that distinguish it from traditional manufacturing methods. The most often cited are: ·         Eliminate investment in tooling. ·         Eliminate lag time between design and production. ·         Eliminate design constraints. ·         Eliminate penalty for redesign. ·         Eliminate lot size minimums. Green manufacturing, minimal waste As an added benefit, many additive manufacturing technologies are fairly “green” processes. They have very little waste material as compared with milling processes because only the needed material is used. No unnecessary inventory is produced because there is no benefit to building more than you need at any time. Most additive processes require no harmful chemicals and vent no harmful fumes into the environment. Among a list of other green benefits, is the relatively small amount of electricity that is required to produce parts via additive manufacturing. “DDM essentially rewrites the rulebook for making manufacturing decisions,” Mr McKinley adds. In many instances, it is a polar opposite to conventional production methods. This makes it a disruptive technology and makes it more difficult to appreciate and comprehend. Application diversity In the manufacturing environment, DDM often performs one of two roles. Companies will use the process to manufacture the products it sells or to make the devices that aid in the manufacturing of the products. When first introduced to DDM most people envision the production of finished goods. The word manufacturing conjures images of high-volume production of consumer products. People often jump to the definition ”the making of goods on a large scale,” even though manufacturing also means “the making or producing of anything.” Low volume manufacturing, jigs & fixtures “DDM is suited for low-volume manufacturing – not mass production,” Mr McKinley explains and adds, “but before you think ‘We can’t use it because we do mass-production’, keep in mind every manufacturer has low-volume needs in the production of manufacturing tools, such as jigs, fixtures, gauges and hand tools.” Producing manufacturing tools presents the ideal opportunity to try DDM. These tools are deployed to make manufacturing and assembly fast, efficient, repeatable and cost effective. In this manufacturing context, DDM becomes a low-risk, high-return alternative to standard practices. Because the tools are used by the company, not the customer, and the time and cost to produce them is small, an unsuccessful attempt has little consequence. But when successful, DDM has a major impact on productivity, quality and the cost of producing parts. Performing DDM of manufacturing tools is currently more popular than DDM for end-use parts. That’s partly because it’s such a low-risk opportunity, and partly because every manufacturer has a need for such tools. Popular in many industries Manufacturing can also be a bit of a misnomer when the entire spectrum of industries using DDM is considered. Some of the greatest successes are not in the manufacturing industry. Because of the inherent need for custom fitting devices, the medical and dental professions have been early adopters of DDM. Orthotics, prosthetics, hearing aids and dental bridges have all benefitted from DDM. Companies like T R Savage have discovered that DDM is a powerful alternative, rather than a direct replacement, to the conventional manufacturing processes. DDM presents a nearly limitless range of opportunities. Companies have only begun to uncover all that it can do. It is exciting to realise that the scope of opportunities and potential is enormous. It is also good news that there are so many technologies and materials from which to choose.  About Tasman Machinery Tasman Machinery is one of the founding machinery suppliers to the plastics manufacturing industry in Australia and New Zealand, having been founded in 1972. Tasman Machinery’s name is recognised across all of Australia & New Zealand, with a customer base as geographically diverse as the landscape. With installations in Perth, Tasmania, Townsville and all points in-between in Australia, and customers in Invercargill in the South of NZ through to Whangarei in the North, Tasman Machinery is never far from you. Leading into the 21st century Tasman Machinery has led the regions manufacturing technologies, with the high uptake of all electric machines in the injection moulding and blow moulding sectors. We are now seeing the beginning DDM, with our Dimension 3D Printers and Fortus 3D Production systems. The FDM process is allowing users to consider design and manufacturing opportunities that were not considered possible, even a short time ago.   Contact: Tasman Machinery Pty Ltd 3/51 Grange Road Cheltenham, VIC, 3192 Dermid McKinley, MD Email:    dermid@tasmanmachinery.com.au Phone: 03 9584 8355 www.tasmanmachinery.com.au  

2012-09-16T07:39:00Z techni-waterjet-releases-nxt-generation-electric-servo-pump

Melbourne, 16 September 2012 – Leading waterjet technology manufacturer Techni Waterjet introduces its NXT generation of electric servo pumps (ESPs), designed to address the requirements of today’s competitive manufacturing industry. The Quantum NXT raises the bar for high cutting speeds, reliability and technical superiority, producing 20% more power than previous models. “With this NXT generation ESP, Techni Waterjet has addressed the challenges of increasing demands for cutting speeds and compatibility by waterjet technology users worldwide,” company director Darren Reukers says. “Since releasing our revolutionary ESP technology in 2009, we gained a lot of market knowledge and field experience which have been used to develop the NXT generation of ultra-high pressure waterjet pumps.” By increasing the pump’s power output, Techni enables customers to cut any suitable material at faster speeds, while the improved lubrication and cooling system guarantee durability and low maintenance costs. “The costs for running an old intensifier pump greatly increase from year four,” Mr Reukers explains. “From here it makes business sense to buy a new pump, in particular an ESP which has much lower maintenance costs.” The two traditional types of waterjet pumps are direct drive and intensifier. Intensifier pumps and ESPs typically require less maintenance than direct-drive models. According to Mr Reukers, a major reason for that relates to the speed at which the plunger reciprocates. At the same pressure setting, a direct-drive pump will stroke more times each minute than either an intensifier pump or an ESP. This places additional strain on seals, tubing and other critical components. As a consequence, upgrading an intensifier pump or direct drive pump with an electric servo pump reduces costs and resources. Moreover, the NXT generation high-pressure pump is 20% quieter than previous ESP models and more than 800% quieter than other intensifier pumps on the market. The pump offers multiple head capability for easy connectivity to any waterjet machine, and the integration of on-board diagnostics via the full colour touch screen HMI and optional remote control has further increased the ESP’s industry-leading efficiency within the same compact footprint. The Quantum NXT is available in a range of pressures and flow rate capacities to suit any waterjet cutting application. More information can be found on the company’s website: www.techniwaterjet.com. About Electric Servo Pumps (ESPs) The Quantum Electric Servo Pump (ESP) from Techni Waterjet (Melbourne, Australia) combines the advantages of the two most prevalent ultra-high pressure pump (UHP) types (direct drive and intensifier) while avoiding their drawbacks. Quantum NXT uses an electric servomotor to drive plungers attached to a reciprocating ballscrew, and is the subject of numerous technology patents. The ballscrew directly houses the ceramic plungers, which reciprocate back and forth to create the pumping action, in much the same way as a hydraulic cylinder works on an intensifier pump. The infinite control of the servomotor and precision of the ballscrew enable extremely accurate control over the output pressure and volume of the water displaced, and eliminates pressure spikes when deadheading. This design can generally match or surpass the performance of both direct-drive and intensifier models in efficiency, maintenance and footprint. Quantum NXT can cut a wide range of materials, including stainless steel, aluminium, glass, stone, rubber, titanium, just to name a few. It is offered in three models, each with a maximum noise level of 68 decibels and a cooling requirement of only around one gallon per minute (5 l/m) at 72 degrees Fahrenheit (22°C). Contact: Melbourne-based Techni Waterjet is a leading manufacturer of waterjet cutting systems with over 500 systems installed worldwide. Techni Waterjet Pty Ltd Campbellfield, VIC, 3061 Ph: +61 3 9375 8360 Email: sales@techniwaterjet.com www.techniwaterjet.com

2012-05-17T02:09:41Z tasman-machinery-releases-mojo-desktop-3d-printer-from-stratasys

Tasman Machinery is proud to announce the release of Stratasys’ new “Mojo” desktop 3D printing system, which promises to make 3D printing much more accessible to companies by lowering the threshold for adopting the technology. The printer is priced at less than U$10,000 and includes features aimed at making 3D part-making more intuitive and seamless for users. Tasman Machinery used the opportunity of Australia’s leading manufacturing and machine tool show, Austech 2012 in Sydney (held from 8 to 11 May), to introduce high-end additive manufacturing technology to around 10,0000 attendees, with the running of Stratasy’s flagship Fortus 3D Production System, a Fortus 400mc. The Fortus system was manufacturing phone covers made from super tough polycarbonate thermoplastic. “Certainly we had a very busy show, and having the additive manufacturing sub-section at the Austech exhibition has been a big plus for us, as it produced a cluster effect of people visiting going from booth to booth,” Managing Director Dermid McKinley says. “We have generated huge interest in our high-end machines like the 3D Fortus production system, which is finding more and more advanced applications for users. At the other end of the application scale we celebrated the worldwide release our latest FDM 3D printer, The Mojo, which is going to be a game changer in the industry.” While the Fortus 400mc 3D Production System can be used as a full production machine, producing everything from assembly jigs through to end-user parts to replace injection moulded and CNC machined components, the new “Mojo” desktop printer now brings the possibiklities of 3D printing right to the desktop, provided the part can fit within the unit’s build envelope of 127 x 127 x 127 mm. “The number of manufacturers producing end-use parts through additive manufacturing is relatively small, but the number of organisations considering doing this is large,” Mr McKinley says. “The new Mojo 3D desktop 3D printer is now virtually affordable for anyone, and includes features aimed at making 3D printing more intuitive and seamless, much like using a traditional desktop 2D printer.” Like other 3D printers from Stratasys, the Mojo unit builds parts through fused deposition modelling (FDM) – a process that creates resilient plastic parts out of durable & strong ABS thermoplastic. Applications of FDM therefore extend beyond prototyping to include functional tools, fixtures and end-use parts. The Mojo comes with a print pack which includes PrintWizard software that allows users to design products and print. The print wizard imports the CAD model and steps the user through decisions related to orientation and scaling, as well as the number of pieces to be built in the cycle. A hardware innovation intended to further simplify the process is the integration of material spool and print head into a single package (the “QuickPack” engine). Thanks to this design, loading material into the Mojo unit is a straightforward step that is similar to snapping an inkjet cartridge into an office paper printer. “This product is just another indication that 3D printing is ready to move into the mainstream,” Mr McKinley says. “For a person or organisation who wants a 3D Printer that can work right out of the box and producing professional grade models, the Mojo is very attractive.” Tasman Machinery Pty Ltdwww.tasmanmachinery.com.auwww.machiningaustralia.com.au

2012-04-10T01:14:33Z bending-folding-cutting-storing-sheetmetal-machinery-demonstrates-efficient-solutions

Leading Australian sheetmetal equipment supplier, Sheetmetal Machinery, will demonstrate its innovative range of bending, folding, laser cutting and materials handling solutions to the manufacturing industry at Austech 2012 in Sydney, Stand D110. With a special focus on bending technology, Sheetmetal Machinery will demonstrate the advances bending and folding technology have made in recent years, and how a combination of press brakes and folding machines for instance can make any fabrication facility much more productive and give it a leg up on the competition. Automation technology has helped lean-out fabricators significantly, even job shops with high-mix, low-volume operations. Most cut parts must also undergo a bending process, and in this arena the press brake has always dominated—for good reason. The press brake is a flexible, cost-effective bending system that can bend everything from small, intricate components to massive plate. For years press brakes have undergone a gradual transition from mechanical to hydraulic and, finally, electric. The overall goal of any bending operation is threefold: to produce parts accurately, quickly, and safely. SAFAN E-Brake Sheetmetal expert Safan was among the first to develop fully electric press brakes, and Sheetmetal Machinery will demonstrate the Safan servo-electronic press brake E-Brake 80-2550 for pressure forces up to 300 tons and working lengths of up to 4 metres. While machine designers have performed a balancing act between the three overall goals of bending operations – accuracy, speed and safety –, sometimes sacrificing one factor to promote others, these three factors are easier to juggle in the electric press brake arena. “Without crowning you obtain the most accurate and constant bending angle along the full working length of the machine,” explains Brigitte Stavar from Sheetmetal Machinery. “Safan E-Brakes contribute perfectly to your sustainable business, while at the same time making your business operations much more economic. The absence of hydraulics means that the problems associated with environmentally harmful and risky oil are a thing of the past!” Moreover, the unique, patented roller drive system in the upper beam ensures a uniform and even distribution of forces. A balanced combination of powerful electro-motors, fixed and movable rollers and specially developed belts facilitate capacities of up to 300 tons. RAS XL-Folding Centre For shop owners looking for a way to bend sheetmetal parts that is not tool- or labour-intensive, a folding machine might be right for your application. Folding machines can be an efficient and productive way to get large, medium to low volume jobs done. Several advances in recent years have made folders suitable for a diverse range of workpieces. First, servo-electric motors now drive the folding beam at extremely high speeds, often up to 150 degrees a second. This effectively eliminates the speed disadvantage. Second, single-beam folding systems now bend bi-directionally, both up and down. “This eliminates the difficult part-flipping earlier systems required,” Mrs Stavar explains. “The beam swings up to form an up-bend, then moves out and around the previously formed flange, repositioning itself against the part to make a down-bend, and so on.” The new RAS XL-Centre on show at the Sheetmetal Machinery stand ticks all those boxes and offers technical excellence with 3200mm folding length at 1.5mm mild steel capacity. Sheetmetal Machinery introduces this new folding innovation for roofing and architectural profiles, which is based on the XXL-Centre technology. By folding the part up and down the new model reduces material handling to a minimum. Coil Warehousing Moreover, Sheetmetal Machinery promotes the E-Ventures Centurio, an automatic sheetmetal slitting and cutting machine with an automated coil warehousing system. “The Centurio is a revolutionary new machine that is fundamentally changing the way metal coils are handled and stored, resulting in dramatic and measurable efficiencies in the metal component industry,” explains Mrs Stavar. “The newly-introduced Centurio is an automatic coil handling and warehousing system for light gauge sheetmetal that is allowing metal forming factories to improve production time and reduce scrap rates, while reducing labour requirements, enhancing safety and saving space.” Laser cutting and notching For those looking to efficiently cut acrylic, stainless, aluminium or mild steel parts, the El.En. S.pA. laser cutting system offered by Sheetmetal Machinery might be the answer. It uses the latest mid-size CO2 laser technology built by El.En. S.p.A. Combined with new fast linear motors 3-axis CNC gantry system it is capable of clean piercing within 0.4sec (no blow-out) on 12mm steel and engrave raster images on different material. Other exhibits include an ergonomic electric press brake for small parts from Coastone, corner forming from ACF and the latest creation from SIMASV Italy, a 30>140 variable angle hydraulic notching machine AV226/PA-CNC. The punching head is controlled independently and operating via a changeover switch allows it to shift easily from the notching to the punching step. Simasv fixed and variable angle notchers will also be on display.More info:www.sheetmetalmachinery.com.au

2012-04-10T01:08:54Z 3d-systems-demonstrates-cutting-edge-additive-manufacturing-techniques-and-services

3D dimensional printing has captured the attention of professionals and consumers alike worldwide. Mainstream media and blog’s abound with discussion around the merits of Additive Manufacture (AM) and how 3D printing will change our lives. This year’s Austech exhibition in Sydney (8 – 11 May 2012) will feature a special pavilion for digital and additive manufacturing. 3D Systems Asia-Pacific will showcase its wide range of 3D content-to-print solutions during the four days of the show, including examples of 3D Systems service bureau capabilities all the way through to full-scale manufacturing. “We look forward to sharing our entire portfolio of 3D content-to-print solutions with Austech attendees,” says Kathryn Hay, 3D Systems Asia-Pacific Marketing Manager. “Austech is the perfect venue for visitors to experience our commitment to democratise access to powerful and affordable design-to-manufacturing tools and services.” Recognised as a knowledge leader in the 3D printing and AM space, 3D Systems brings over two decades of experience providing best-in-class rapid prototyping, CNC machining and manufacturing services. For those companies who wish to take their 3D printing needs in-house, 3D Systems offers a wide range of printers, from the 3D Touch Personal to the ProJet 3D Professional or Production 3D Printing System. 3D Systems’ stand (D175) provides visitors with an interactive and intuitive user experience featuring machine demonstrations of the Professional - ProJet HD 3000 and full-colour ZPrint parts designed to save time and money off your demanding development schedule. To experience 3D Systems additional printer range, visit Camplex and Benson Machines exhibits to explore the most complete range of affordable 3D content-to-print solutions available on the market today. “Visitors will see first-hand the precision, durable plastic parts the machine creates, ideal for design validation, communication and rapid manufacturing,” Ms Hay explains. “It’s simple and affordable to use. The ProJet HD 3000 printers offer precision, high-definition parts, in a range of plastics with minimal post processing required to achieve high quality parts.” With over 100 3D Printer materials, 3D Systems will be displaying some of the latest plastics available, including a high-temp resin, which is designed for optimal performance, accuracy and stability during prolonged exposure to high temperatures and humidity. It’s an ideal choice for prototype models requiring high thermal and moisture resistance, and provides good stiffness for demanding applications. Many of the new generation of materials have led to significant changes in the way industries approach manufacture. In fact the Dental, Hearing Aid and Medical implant markets are undergoing a digital revolution that is driving enormous gains in productivity and successful custom outcomes.More info:www.3dsystems.com.au

2012-04-10T01:05:02Z tasman-machinery-demonstrates-how-additive-manufacturing-technology-can-replace-cnc-machining

It’s all about Direct Digital Manufacturing (DDM) Tasman Machinery’s stand (stand number D164) during this year’s Austech exhibition in Sydney. Austech 2012 will for the first time see a dedicated additive manufacturing (AM) pavilion, and Melbourne-based Tasman Machinery will demonstrate its Fortus 400mc 3D Production System. The machine, powered by FDM (Fused Deposition Modelling) technology from Statasys Inc., will allow visitors to gain an understanding of how AM and DDM can help organisations save money, reduce lead times, and increase design and manufacturing flexibility. While many AM processes have become popular for rapid prototyping of new product designs, FDM has expanded beyond simply proving out designs, says Managing Director Dermid McKinley. “Where once people viewed the 3D printing sector as the domain of designers and the prototyping sector, our most successful customers use our machines as full production machines, producing everything from assembly jigs through to end-user parts to replace injection moulded and CNC machined components.” The Fortus 3D Production Systems have a place in nearly every modern tool room in Australia. Powered by FDM technology, they free users from traditional design and manufacturing limitations, enbabling them to produce manufacturing tools and put them into service just hours after your design is complete. According to Mr McKinley, the trend towards DDM is especially evident in manufacturing jigs, fixtures and other tools used in production and assembly processes. It is also being used to create custom end user components as well as medical parts. He says that’s because DDM processes such as FDM, developed by Stratasys, can be faster, more affordable alternatives to manufacturing such parts via machining or injection moulding. The FDM process melts solid plastic and extrudes it through nozzles about as thick as a human hair. Those nozzles lay fine beads of molten plastic layer-by-layer to quickly build parts directly from a 3D CAD model. “AM has gained significant momentum in recent years, particularly in advanced economies such as the US or Germany,” Mr McKinley explains. “AM or FDM allows an approach to manufacturing that we believe very much suits economies such as Australia and New Zealand. We can never compete against the mass production of low cost economies, but we can certainly compete in manufacturing markets where design volumes are relatively low and complexity and sophistication of design is necessary. This is where FDM and DDM marry up perfectly.” Mr McKinley sees the market in a point of transition, where Australian manufacturers are beginning to understand and invest in AM technologies. He encourages visitors to visit the Tasman stand to discuss whether DDM is right for them. In the long run, Mr McKinley believes that every engineering shop that currently has a CNC machine, will one day also have an AM machine in the future. The technology is particularly suited for low production volume or high design complexity, because additive processes such as FDM are insensitive to design complexity. Instead of machining parts or cutting a tool for moulding, DDM is a cost-effective and simpler alternative for manufacturing smaller quantities of finished goods, and the engineering-grade thermoplastics guarantee accurate, durable parts that match the strength of injection moulded parts.More info: www.tasmanmachinery.com.au

2012-04-10T01:01:39Z high-performance-laser-machining-and-cutting-systems-with-a-small-footprint

Technical demands from the electronic, medical, aerospace and other industries are pushing the boundaries of micro-machining to smaller and more precise tolerances. The application of laser technology is pacing the demands from industry for smaller geometries and increasingly tighter specifications. At this year’s Austech exhibition in Sydney, Alfex CNC Australia will demonstrate how extremely accurate 3D engraving and micromachining processes using the latest laser technology from ACSYS Lasertechnik replaces – and in many applications even excludes – conventional CNC machining techniques. Since there is no physical contact between the laser and the workpiece, the advantages are obvious: No tool wear, no tool changes, and no tool breaking. 3D laser engraving allows the three-dimensional surface ablation on a wide range of materials with outstanding quality. Alfex CNC Australia will have live demonstrations on its stand over the four days of the show, where an ACSYS Piranha fibre laser system removes material by ablation, thus creating virtually any surface texture that can be digitised. (Ablation can be described as a method to melt and vaporise a workpiece material with high heat.) The process can be used to engrave, mark, label or render a microstructure on a surface in 3D with high-speed and precision. The high level of precisely charged laser energy makes it possible to engrave previously hardened materials while providing a working beam diameter down to 20μm. For high-precision marks such as punch marks, fine engraving or 3D laser micro-engraving, ACSYS offers high-resolution camera systems, precision packages and multiple axes systems with up to seven movable linear and rotary axes, consisting of linear moving columns or cross tables and rotary and swivelling dividing heads. With rotary tables, tag feeders, foil handling or special attachments, the Piranha laser system offers optimum adjustment possibilities for any task. “From file creation to output on the laser, all details are perfectly co-ordinated to ensure an intuitive workflow,” Alfex CNC Director George Buhagiar explains the features which set the machine apart from its competition. “The unique camera set-up module LAS - Live Adjust System - reduces set-up times to a minimum and makes working with the laser highly efficient. The high resolution camera provides a live virtual preview of the workpiece being processed on the computer monitor. ACSYS‘ own AC LASER Software allows you to design texts, 2D and 3D data directly on the workpiece image and to define positions, contours and frostings easily and precisely.” Moreover, the Optical Parts Recognition system – OPR - allows for fully automatic processing of non-palletised loose parts, where the system will automatically locate each part and then correctly position or even rotate the file to mark in exactly the right place every time no matter what the orientation of the part on the pallet. “Lasers open up entirely new possibilities in terms of design,” adds Jordan Buhagiar, Sales Team Leader - Laser Division. “In addition to the precise surface frosting, unlimited other textures with interesting visual effects can be applied. A great advantage is the absolute reproducibility, since any frosting layout can be saved as a file and then automatically transferred to other dies at any time. Overall process time is greatly reduced and constant quality is guaranteed.” Alfex will also showcase the compact MetaBeam 400W laser cutting system from leading laser manufacturer Coherent Inc. USA – directly brought to Australia’s advanced manufacturers from the Silicon Valley, where innovation starts. CO2 lasers have been used in metal cutting and welding for decades, but the physical size and high operating costs associated with traditional, flowing gas CO2 laser cutting systems have limited their use to larger installations. The MetaBeam series is designed for precise, laser cutting of a large variety of materials, including stainless steel up to 3mm thick, thanks to its Coherent Diamond series sealed CO2 laser, which allow a more compact, reliable and cost-effective system. “The MetaBeam takes up a fraction of the floor space a larger machine does, which you can regularly see at Austech exhibitions,” Jordan Buhagiar explains. “It has a completely sealed, maintenance-free laser source so there are no regular overhauls required on the laser itself and no laser gas required either, providing instant savings. Moreover, it uses very little power compared with the larger machines so overall it offers an excellent ROI.”More info www.alfexcnc.com.au

2012-04-10T00:56:42Z solidtec-solutions-demonstrates-3d-cad-software-solidworks-2012-with-new-and-enhanced-features

Software and 3D design specialist company Solidtec Solutions will use the opportunity of two major tradeshows in Australia and New Zealand, Austech 2012 (Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park, May 8th-11th, Stand D168) and Emex (ASB Showgrounds, Greenlane, Auckland, May 1st-3rd, Stand 3084), to present the 20th release of the popular CAD software SolidWorks 2012. SolidWorks is the industry leading design software providing the manufacturing community tools that increase productivity and focus on innovation to create products better, faster, and more cost-effectively. “The new release comes with dozens of new useful features, which demonstrate how much the bar has been raised as to what users today expect from their CAD software,” says Shane Preston, CEO of Solidtec Solutions. “The new features fall into four major categories: Automation of commonly-used functions, enhanced performance, new workflows for changing the product development process, and additional collaboration capabilities.” One of the standout new features of SolidWorks 2012 is SolidWorks Costing, an integrated costing tool that automates manufacturing cost calculations for sheetmetal and machined parts. Very often, engineers spend a good amount of time modifying designs to address cost concerns, using spreadsheets and manual quote processes to get the proper data. Given that many of these engineers are already SolidWorks users, the company saw an opportunity to deliver a more repeatable and accurate way for users to do what-if analysis on the materials and manufacturing methods associated with particular designs. Visitors to the Solidtec stand during Autech 2012 and Emex can experience the benefits of SolidWorks 2012 first-hand, and the Solidtec expert team will be at hand to demonstrate the whole suite of new features, which have the potential to improve local manufacturers’ productivity and competitiveness. “We chose Solidtec because they showed us the relevance of SolidWorks to our business and how we would benefit from it,” comments Neil Newnham, Managing Director at Belco Custom Trailers. “The demonstration they gave showing SolidWorks capabilities around framework and drawings was excellent. They knew exactly what we needed, and really highlighted just how simple SolidWorks is to use.” From the outset the entire Solidtec team across Australia and New Zealand has been focused on adding value to their manufacturing customers and assisting them in increasing their innovation, sustainability and profitability. Solidtec’s performance would indicate these efforts are resonating with its customers, as Solidtec has been acknowledged as the fastest growing SolidWorks 3D CAD provider, trainer and support organisation in Australia and NZ and has been recognised as one the top performing SolidWorks resellers worldwide. “We would like to congratulate Solidtec for its inclusion in President’s Club for 2011, an elite group of top performing SolidWorks resellers,” says Kenneth Clayton, vice president of worldwide sales at Dassault Systmes SolidWorks Corp. "Selling 1,000 licenses in less than 3 years is a great accomplishment." “Growing at such a fast rate is confirmation that our focus on ensuring customer success is resonating with the manufacturing community; we cannot achieve our goals without our loyal customers,” says Shane Preston, CEO of Solidtec Solutions.More info www.solidtec.com.au

2012-04-10T00:54:15Z helping-local-manufacturers-get-lean

Does your business want to become more efficient in how it operates? Do you want to reduce inventory and increase sales? If so, you are not alone. Leading Australian Lean Manufacturing and Project Management company TXM will demonstrate how lean manufacturing techniques can help Australian advanced manufacturers become more efficient during Austech 2012 in Sydney, stand C123. Many businesses in Australia — large and small — are challenged by increasing competition from low-cost imports due to the strong Australian dollar, and more investment in intelligent manufacturing techniques and prioritising key technologies are crucial if Australia is to avoid losing its competitive edge in manufacturing. One of those techniques that has benefitted many companies struggling to remain competitive is the implementation of lean manufacturing. TXM's stand will provide an opportunity for advanced manufacturers to gain practical hands-on learnings about Lean techniques. "Lean is not something you achieve - it's something you constantly and continuously pursue," Managing Director Tim McLean emphasises. "Implementing a few Lean tools in a plant is relatively easy, but the key to a successful pursuit lies in the ability of your team to sustain the initiatives over time." While Lean was originally developed from the Toyota Production System in the automotive industry, TXM has taken the concept further and adapted the techniques for Australia's advanced manufacturing industry and the particular challenges it faces. "Not only will we bring to your business considerable manufacturing experience from a wide range of industries, but we have developed our own proprietary lean implementation approaches such as the Manufacturing Agility Process (MAP)," Mr McLean says. MAP is focused on reducing lead time and cost in production environments where there is high complexity and high levels of product customisation such as found in advanced manufacturing environments. "Manufacturing in first-world countries such as Australia and New Zealand is increasingly towards complex low volume, high-mix production of advanced products," Mr McLean explains. "The Manufacturing Agility Process is the result of TXM's considerable experience in working with this type of advanced manufacturing. MAP takes traditional lean manufacturing approaches that were developed for automotive mass production and adapts them to enable advanced manufacturers to slash lead times, reduce cost and effectively manage the increasing complexity of their production operations and supply chains." In order to help companies a lasting cultural change through lean, TXM has developed the Lean Daily Leadership Process (LDLP). "Most manufacturers know that Lean Manufacturing approaches can lead to breakthrough improvements in cost, quality and lead time, but the challenge is how to sustain these improvements," he says. "The key is to create a culture where front line leaders and their teams have the tools to maintain and continuously improve performance. The TXM Lean Daily Leadership Process is the product of over 100 years of combined lean manufacturing experience in the TXM team and, in particular, our experience in enabling businesses to keep improving long after we have completed our work. LDLP is a highly customisable management system that we can adapt to each site and each business, but it is based on some proven TXM know-how." During the four days of the show, visitors will learn from the experienced TXM team with video displays and demonstrations of Lean tools and the above processes, and how they can be applied in their businesses. "TXM knows that the challenge with Lean is that it competes with all of the other factors in your business; your time, your resources," Mr McLean says. "And it is easy to think that once Lean is 'done' that we can shift our focus to the next crisis. But our lean processes need constant re-energising; adding a little more momentum so that it continues to progress and grow and bring others along with it." TXM has an enviable reputation for delivering lasting improvement and providing an outstanding return on investment and is constantly expanding its services across the country with new offices in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne, as well as new team members in New Zealand and Shanghai. More info www.txm.com.au

2012-04-10T00:32:35Z hi-tech-metrology-see-the-latest-in-3d-scanning-technology-for-every-application-first-hand

Hi-Tech Metrology, Australia’s leading provider of metrology and scanning products and services, will be displaying a complete range of the latest technologies for CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machine) measurement, 3D scanning, vision-based video camera measuring systems and examples from its extensive range of the latest portable measuring equipment at the upcoming Austech exhibition from 8 to 11 May 2012 at the Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park. At this year’s show, Hi-Tech Metrology will be conducting a series of on-going and interactive demonstrations on stand C050 which will show visitors some of the latest technology, equipment and software that is available today for reverse engineering and modelling a range of general engineering components. Industries such as the booming mining and resources sector increasingly embrace the use of CMM technology. “We see this year’s Austech in Sydney as our biggest commitment to date to this event in NSW, and a great opportunity to show a wide cross-section of industry just what can be achieved with the latest array of measurement technologies,” Hi-Tech Metrology’s General Manager David Eldridge comments. “With the multi-speed Australian economy today, we see an even greater need to be able to demonstrate that we have equipment and solutions for customers involved in a wide range of sectors, including mining or resources industries supply sector, where productivity and throughput of quality components is paramount, or other businesses involved in general and precision engineering, medical equipment component supply and aerospace and transport, where improving competitiveness in order to maintain export volumes is a critical factor.” Hi-Tech Metrology is the distributor for the complete range of CMM equipment from Hexagon. “Our CMM range is not only extensive and the best in the industry, but allows customers in almost any industry or sector to take advantage of the key benefits that the use of CMM equipment brings to their operations,” adds Mr Eldridge. “Whether it be for shop floor measurement of high volume components with the Sheffield Discovery III range, or for high precision, volume or inspection/checking centre work with the Brown & Sharpe range, the large DEA horizontal arm or gantry systems, or the ultra high precision Leitz CMM – there is a CMM product from our range for any application.” In the field of Hexagon’s portable metrology, Hi-Tech Metrology will be exhibiting the ROMER Absolute Arm, the most precise ROMER coordinate measuring machine, as well as ground-breaking Leica AT401 laser tracker. “Portable coordinate measuring machines from Hexagon Metrology are efficient measuring solutions for components of all sizes,” Mr Eldridge says. “Customers can benefit from enormous time and cost savings by simply being able to take the measuring system to where it's needed.” The new ROMER measuring arm, the first to be equipped with absolute encoders, greatly simplifies the process of measuring. With this technology, there is no need to initialise all the encoders, as was previously the case with every measuring arm – the user simply switches the measuring machine on and starts to measure. Hi-Tech Metrology is also presenting the latest CMM technology from Hexagon, as well as the new generation Micro-Vu Vertex 311uc measuring centre with an optional touch probe rack installed. These machines have proven to be very popular with the repetition engineering and medical equipment component manufacturing sectors all around Australia – particularly over the last two to three years. “However, there is one critical factor that we see time and time again with this type of equipment,” adds Mr Eldridge. ”That is the importance of seeing first-hand the machine in operation. It’s only through this process that we find that customers can truly appreciate the extensive capabilities and the flexibility of the Micro-Vu system to measure their own products.” Therefore, visitors to the Hi-Tech Metrology stand at this year’s AUSTECH stand are encouraged to ask for a personalised demonstration of the Micro-Vu Vertex in action, and with some notice the Hi-Tech Metrology team can even measure individual problem or difficult parts – the one you always wanted to find a way to measure, right there at the show. Please contact Craig Leckie, cleckie@hitechmetrology.com.au , Ph: 0423 428 551 to arrange a time for a part measurement between 8 to 11 May 2011.

2012-04-03T06:12:37Z tasman-machinery-announces-special-trade-in-deal-for-3d-printers

Melbourne, 02 April 2012 – Customers can now upgrade to the latest technology and get a generous credit for their used and old equipment through the Stratasys Fortus trade-in program. By investing in a brand new Fortus 250mc 3D printer, customers will save money and produce accurate, durable prototype and production-grade parts through FDM (fused deposition modelling). The Fortus 250mc is an affordable 3D production hybrid printer, sitting between the highly popular Dimension 3D Printers and the high-end Fortus 3D Production Systems. The 250mc is aimed at users wanting to expand their horizons in the use of 3D printers to the more advanced applications of the traditional Fortus customer. At the same time, the Fortus 250mc provides the simplicity, ease of use, and convenience of the most popular Dimension 3D Printers. This special trade-in offer is only valid until the end of June 2012, so do not hesitate to contact Tasman Machinery, the sole Australian and New Zealand distributor for Stratasys, to learn more. Email sales@tasmanmachinery.com.au, Ph: 03 9584 8355 From 8 to 11 May 2012, Tasman Machinery will demonstrate its Fortus 400mc 3D Production System during Austech 2012 in Sydney, Sydney Olympic Park. Please visit our stand D164 to find out more about the special trade-in offer and what’s new in additive manufacturing.