Star GB to showcase the new generation of sliding head lathe technology and demonstrate the future of production automation solutions at MACH 2022

Leading sliding headstock lathe supplier, Star Micronics GB Ltd, will exhibit at MACH 2022 with exciting plans to showcase the very latest in machine tool technology, as well as to educate engineers on the advanced capabilities and automation opportunities of its sliding head solutions.

With the increasing prominence of sliding head lathe technology throughout the UK and Eire, existing and prospective users will have unprecedented access to process demonstrations and experience a range of complex mill-turn components being produced live at the event.

Game-changing sliding head innovation

The latest model on display from the machine tool giant will be the new SL-10 sliding head lathe following the UK premiere of the smaller SL-7 at Star GB’s event held in November. Capable of machining bar as small as 0.8mm diameter, the SL Series has been designed for manufacturing miniature components and extends the ultra-compact segment of the company’s machine portfolio.

Both models in the SL Series offer 6 turning tools on the main side and up to 5 cross-working tool positions, of which 4 tool positions are available for cartridge attachments such as thread whirling, slotting, gear hobbing, angled drilling and polygon units. Available as standard, the Y-axis on the back tool post offers 6 tool positions, of which 4 are driven and can accept front and cross working tools.

A game-changing model within its class, the SX-38 is the latest addition to the company’s 38mm diameter range and will take centre stage to represent the latest advancements in sliding head lathe technology. The SX-38 is a three-channel machine offering a total of 12 axes, developed to suit complex mill-turn applications with its exceptional versatility, accuracy and metal cutting performance.

The most popular model in the Star machine range has also been revamped with the third-generation SR-32JIII succeeding the SR-32JII. On Star GB’s stand will be the versatile SR-32JIII Type B variant that offers a range of benefits including improved rigidity, enhanced swarf clearance, upgraded ergonomics and the inclusion of a sub-spindle flush pump as standard.

In addition, Star GB will be demonstrating a range of models up to 42mm diameter capacity across its SW, SR and SB model ranges. On partner company Floyd Automatic Tooling’s stand will be an SR-32JIII Type A, as well as SolidCAM presenting their CAD software solutions with an ST-20.

Applications excellence

On their stand throughout the week will be Star GB’s applications, servicing, sales and marketing teams to give visitors an introduction to sliding head machinery and offer an insight into how engineers can utilise Star technology to enhance and automate their production. Star GB’s engineers will also be demonstrating how quickly and efficiently CNC programs can be generated via the company’s popular NC Assist programming editor which is now available for all current models in both metric and inch formats.

Displaying the latest technology in the rapidly expanding automation market, a FANUC pick-and-place robotic cell developed in conjunction with Renishaw’s post-process Equator™ gauging system will also be on show. The cell will be demonstrating how components can be machined and inspected with minimal operator intervention, while automatically adjusting tool offset data to ensure maximum accuracy.

Stephen Totty, Managing Director of Star GB says, “MACH is a key event for us as it allows visitors an opportunity to see our technology in action and get to know our team – which is very important to us as our emphasis on customer support is what sets us apart.

“Demand for more complex applications and improved process efficiency continues to increase and MACH gives us the ideal platform to demonstrate the production capabilities that are possible with sliding head machines. Not only this, but we can also show visitors how our technical partners can be utilised to further increase automation, lights-out running and process control.”

He continues, “Star GB is also pleased to support the MTA with their efforts in encouraging the next generation of engineers to pursue careers in our industry. Initiatives such as Education & Development Zone within the MACH exhibition are crucially important and we hope our contribution helps to attract high levels of attendance.”

Star will be situated in hall 19, stand 330 and will be pleased to welcome all visitors with an interest in manufacturing. Registration for MACH 2022 is via its portal at www.machexhibition.com.