Rodmatic Hi Tech

The two Star CNC sliding-headstock lathes operated by contract machinist, Rodmatic, are able to mill-turn components of medium to high complexity as quickly as any of the 42 cam-type, six-spindle automatics on site, according to owner and managing director, Brian Steatham.

He also points out that the turned finish achieved using the Stars, mainly on stainless steel and steel components, is so good that subsequent grinding is frequently eliminated, lowering unit production cost significantly.

Equipped with a four-metre bar magazine and high-pressure coolant to allow long periods of unattended running, the first Star was a 9-axis SV-32 of 32 mm bar capacity,

installed mid 2007. It was followed in 2008 by a similarly equipped, 7-axis SR-20RIII for mill-turning parts up to 20 mm diameter. Tolerances of ± 2.5 microns are routinely held.

When asked why he did not continue down the route of fixed-head lathes to satisfy the market’s increasing demand for smaller size, high accuracy mill-turned parts in lower volumes, Mr Steatham says that in his opinion, a sliding-head lathe is twice as fast as an ‘equivalent’ fixed-head lathe, ie one with a counter spindle and two turrets containing driven tooling.

Rodmatic considers Star GB’s service to be good and is comfortable dealing with the supplier’s staff, both of which are regarded as important issues.

 

"Star Sliders are twice as productive as any fixed head"

 

Brian Steatham

Managing Director