Air Turbine Technology Inc., a leading manufacturer of high-speed turbine spindles, has introduced a new series of 'ground-breaking' Air Turbine Live Tools, including the 822CX and 825CX models. This series offers unprecedented reliability at governed cutting speeds of 60,000 to 80,000 RPM at a fraction of the cost compared to conventional live tools and spindles.

Air Turbine Live Tools are ideal for applications in industries where production pressure, precision, and finish quality are critical, such as the manufacturing of medical devices, optics, implants, electronics, and food production.

Performance in Clean Rooms

With its sealed design, this oil-free live tool is ideal for cleanrooms, emitting no oil mist that could contaminate parts or the workspace, and remaining unaffected by machine coolant. The patented double turbine-driven mechanism automatically adjusts airflow CFM volume to match the cutting load, ensuring consistent high speed and enabling 6 to 10 times faster production cycles on any lathe.

Features and Benefits

This governed mechanism eliminates the challenges posed by conventional high-speed products that drop speed in cut on the toolpath. The lack of consistent speed can cause tool breakage and sub-optimal or inconsistent surface quality. In contrast, Air Turbine Live Tools optimize small tool performance and enhance surface finish while reducing production time exponentially.

The direct drive system has only two moving parts and air-cooled precision bearings. The system does not generate heat or burnout like electro-spindles. In continuous 24/7 micro-machining operations, the tools remain cool, maintain zero thermal growth, and deliver 2-micron accuracy.

Simple Setup and Maintenance

Installation is simple. Users can connect dry 90 psi (6.2 bar) compressed air and activate with an M Code or Solenoid. This is unlike traditional technologies that need complex hour-long setups involving control boxes, wiring, and lubrication. The 822CX and 825CX dimensions fit most holders. The tools are operational within moments of being inserted into a tool holder. Smaller side air feed units are also available for added flexibility in tight spaces.

Opportunities and Prospects

Air Turbine Live Tools offer high quality at a third of the cost of traditional live tools, opening up significant cost-saving opportunities for businesses. With outside diameters from 19.5mm to 40mm, they are compatible with all types of lathes. Additionally, they require no maintenance, eliminate downtime, and operate without lubrication.