New Nano-Level Resolution Micro Tool Grinder Debuts

ANCA CNC Machines has launched the six-axes MicroX ULTRA, a grinding machine designed for producing nano and micro cutting tools down to D0.03mm.

Offering a solution for manufacturing high-quality, high-performance micro cutting tools, the MicroX ULTRA introduces technologies exclusive to the cutting tool industry. The machine’s innovator is Pat McCluskey, a machine tool designer who has been with the company since he co-founded it with Pat Boland in 1974.
 
“I have been designing ANCA machines for 50 years, always with the goal of making machines better, more efficient, and user-friendly,” McCluskey said. “It is a trademark of ANCA that you just have to do it differently, and the latest machine, the MicroX ULTRA, is the only micro tool grinder with nanometer resolution. This nano-level precision is a significant advancement in the field, utilizing the very best of ANCA’s technology developed over five decades to offer superior micro tool production.”
 
Key features of the MicroX ULTRA:

• Nanometer resolution and nanometer control on all axes
• With nanometer resolution and control over the tool grinding path, the MicroX ULTRA delivers a high level of surface and edge quality. This achievement is made possible through intelligent algorithms that operate collaboratively and in synchrony.
• Optimized axes travel to grind tools to micrometer sizes
• The C-axis refers to the wheel swivel axis centerline, which is aligned with the wheel’s nine o’clock grind point. This specific design is critical in the grinding of ballnose, corner radius and profile tools. In the case of a ballnose tool, the X and Y interpolations during the grinding process will be nearly equal to the radius of the ballnose tool.

 
Advanced algorithms ensure precise nanometer-level control of tool grinding paths, guaranteeing superior surface and edge quality, according to ANCA. These algorithms collaborate and synchronize to reject disturbances swiftly, enhancing axis stiffness and robustness. They actively mitigate disturbances from spindle speed variations caused by imbalanced or runout grinding wheels. Encoder subdivision error compensation automatically detects and corrects inherent encoder errors on both linear and rotary encoders.
 
The LaserUltra takes process stability to an even higher level by closely controlling tolerances and incorporating in-process compensation mechanisms. This advanced system adapts to factors like wheel wear, resulting in superior precision and reliability.
 
Seamless integration with ANCA Integrated Manufacturing System (AIMS) facilitates effortless transition to automated, lights-out production, enhancing operational efficiency and productivity. 
 
ANCA manufactures CNC grinding machines. It was founded in 1974 in Melbourne, Australia, where it is still headquartered. ANCA has offices in the United Kingdom, Germany, China, Thailand, India, Japan, Brazil, Korea and the United States as well as a comprehensive network of representatives and agents worldwide. ANCA CNC grinders are used for manufacturing precision cutting tools and components across various industries including medical, cutting tool manufacture, automotive, aerospace, and electronics.