Cheshire-based Micro-machining solutions specialist Rainford Precision has invested in a Keyence digital microscope to provide a complete tool investigation and consultancy service for its customers in the UK and Ireland.
Rainford offers a portfolio of products that include Kern ultra-precision machining centres, Finecut micro waterjet cutting machines and a wide range of cutting tools from the likes of Union Tool Japan and Louis Bélet Switzerland.
With extensive ranges of drills, end mills, reamers, thread mills and complementary tools, from universally standard dimensions down to the micro range, it is here that Rainford has found its niche. With micro range products, the new Keyence VHX-970FN digital microscope will enable Rainford to assist its customers in diagnosing and maximising the performance of micro and precision cutting tools.
Commenting on the new investment, Rainford Precision managing director, Miles Evans said: “When you are servicing customers with tools below 0.2mm in diameter, diagnosing and optimising tool life and performance is a challenge. The Keyence system will enable us to provide a unique service to our customers within the cutting tool marketplace.”
With a magnification range from 100 to 1,000, Rainford’s experts can analyse standard and micro-tools then investigate and resolve the barriers to optimum performance.
Cutting tools smaller than 0.5mm in diameter can naturally pose issues when investigating performance and tool life issues. With the Keyence VHX-970FN, Rainford can provide an aftersales service that is aimed at delivering improved tool life, machining performance, productivity and consistency.
By investigating the wear characteristics of customers’ tools and armed with the cutting data, the experts at Rainford can diagnose issues from a multitude of factors. For example, if the cutting speeds, feeds and machining parameters are impacting performance, Rainford will be able to diagnose this from investigations with the Keyence microscope.
Likewise, concentricity, toolholding and the associated concerns of rigidity, balance and stability could also be diagnosed and potentially rectified through Rainford’s service and product portfolio.
This service is available for all customers. For existing clients, it will provide a comprehensive feedback loop with full reporting and recommendations to maximise the machining performance of tools purchased through Rainford.
Additionally, all potential customers who may be experiencing issues with their current cutting tools, whoever the manufacturer may be, and want to investigate potential solutions, will be able to send their tools to Rainford.
Rainford Precision
www.rainfordprecision.com
