Shrink-fit, tool balancing solutions

Zero Gravity, a designer and manufacturer of optic integration components based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, operates under tight space constraints that demand exceptional precision. To overcome these challenges, the company turned to HAIMER’s shrink-fit technology and tool balancing solutions, achieving transformative results.

“We work in tight space constraints, so having a wide array of tool holder lengths and nose diameters is critical for us,” says Morgan Karns, Zero Gravity.

The shrink-fit system provides versatility, along with what Karns describes as “superb tool runout tolerance of 3µm or less.”

Additionally, HAIMER’s piloted knob feature ensures the balance specification of G2.5 at 25,000rpm is consistently maintained, enhancing operational reliability.

Seeking further optimization, Zero Gravity integrated the HAIMER Tool Balancing Machine into their shop floor processes. The decision proved pivotal.

“Maintaining tool holder balance gave us two unforeseen benefits,” Karns explains. “Surface finish improved, and tool life rose dramatically.”

The improvements allowed Zero Gravity to increase feed rates and reduce cycle times, resulting in greater efficiency and cost savings.

“Tool life and surface finish are extremely important to us, and the HAIMER tool holders make achieving those objectives easy,” Karns adds.

By leveraging HAIMER’s solutions, Zero Gravity improved part quality and streamlined their manufacturing process, proving the value of precision engineering and advanced technology.

HAIMER
https://www.haimer.com

Zero Gravity
https://www.zerogravityia.com