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Videos

Swiss Precision Testimonial

Thursday, October 3, 2024

Mike, CEO and owner, at Swiss Precision Manufacturing is a job shop that is benefiting from Lyndex-Nikken quality tooling and the runout performance: PSC polygonal shrink fit holders, ER collet chucks, MMC collet chucks, and static turning holders. In addition, the communication and interaction with Lyndex-Nikken engineering department was ideal. They came up with an optimal solution so Mike could lay out solid CAD models on a virtual twin machine – this is critical to simulate the kinematics. He could then see if anything was off to work with Lyndex-Nikken engineering to make adjustments to make sure things work. Through this process an optimal solution was discovered – extending out the sub-spindle chuck in order to get more clearance for the mill/turn B-axis. This process worked out flawlessly to save time and cost! Watch the video to hear directly from Mike.

In the world of Swiss-style machining, the margin for error is non-existent. Production typically involves small-diameter parts with complex geometries, often requiring extreme tolerances in difficult-to-machine materials. In this testimonial, the team at Swiss Precision discusses how standardizing on Lyndex-Nikken tooling has allowed them to push the boundaries of their CNC Swiss-turn centers.

The Challenge: Rigidity in Micro-Machining

Swiss-type lathes are designed for high-speed, high-precision production, but the machine is only as capable as the tool holding it. Swiss Precision faced several common industry hurdles:

  • Vibration in Small Parts: Maintaining surface finish on long, slender parts where harmonic chatter can easily ruin a workpiece.

  • Tool Life Consistency: Finding a collet and holder system that provides repeatable clamping force across high-volume runs.

  • Clearance Issues: Navigating the dense tooling zones of a Swiss-turn machine where space is at a premium and interference is a constant risk.

The Solution: High-Performance Collets and Live Tooling

By integrating Lyndex-Nikken’s high-precision collet chucks and specialized live tool holders, Swiss Precision achieved a more stable cutting environment. The technical benefits included:

  • Ultra-Low Runout: Reducing runout to under 3 microns ensures that small-diameter drills and end mills cut evenly, preventing premature tool breakage.

  • Compact Design: Utilizing slim-nose holders allowed for better access to the sub-spindle and cross-drilling stations without compromising rigidity.

  • Enhanced Thermal Stability: The high-quality steel and specialized heat treatment of the holders ensured that dimensional offsets remained stable even during 24/7 “lights out” manufacturing.

Measurable Results on the Shop Floor

Since implementing Lyndex-Nikken solutions, Swiss Precision has seen a marked improvement in their production metrics. Key takeaways include:

  • Reduced Setup Times: The repeatability of the collet systems means less time spent “dialing in” tools and more time cutting parts.

  • Superior Surface Finishes: The dampening characteristics of the tooling have virtually eliminated secondary finishing operations on critical aerospace and medical components.

  • Long-Term Reliability: The durability of the holders has reduced the annual cost of tool-holding replacements, providing a clear and rapid return on investment.