IMTS 2014 to mark first public demo of Swiss Laser machine

Windsor, CT - Rem Sales, the exclusive North American importer of Precision Tsugami machine tools, will demonstrate its new Swiss Laser machine at the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS 2014), to take place September 8-13, 2014, in Chicago, IL, at booth S-9410. This is the first time it will be displayed in a public setting.

The Tsugami S206-II with IMG 400LS laser cutting system combines six-axis Swiss machining with laser cutting on one machine, allowing manufacturers to perform both operations with a single setup.

"This system represents a revolutionary breakthrough for small part manufacturers," Rem Sales vice president Michael Mugno says. "It replaces two machines with one, eliminates the need for multiple part setups, and significantly reduces part production time."

While originally designed to speed production of small, cylindrical parts for the medical industry, the Swiss Laser has potential applications for other industries that manufacture similar-sized parts. The Tsugami S206-II opposed gang tool lathe features a Y-axis tool post, which allows users to machine complex parts while using the main and back spindle simultaneously. The machine is also convertible, meaning it may be run as a traditional sliding headstock machine with a guide bushing or with a chucker.

All laser cutting operations are programmed and driven from the machine's NC machine control. The nozzle standoff adjustment is also NC-controlled and the laser’s frequency, pulse width, focus, and power are all "on the fly," adjustable, and programmed through the machine's CNC control.

"The laser isn't just an attachment to the Tsugami," Mugno explained. "This is an entirely new system that completely integrates the laser with the machine tool."

To maximize productivity, the system includes an automatic bar feeder, which allows operators to run the machine unattended.

"What makes this system so unique is that it can be used as a regular Swiss turning machine when that's all that's required and used for laser cutting when it's needed," Mugno noted. "No other machine can do that."