Attachment automates drill refurbishment

An attachment to automate drill refurbishment is the latest addition to the Darex XT3000 Xpandable Tool Sharpener system. It will be launched in the UK by 1st Machine Tool Accessories (1st MTA) at MACH 2010.

Comprising an automated sharpening fixture, geared drill holder and control panel, the new module delivers fast, accurate regrinding of drills up to 21mm diameter by ensuring precise control of drill set up, sharpening loads and cycle times.

A blunt drill is loaded into the holder and its flutes are aligned. The collet is loaded into the automated drive unit and parameters such as point angle, stock removal and number of drills to be sharpened are specified on the control unit. The operator presses the cycle start button to initiate the drill's refurbishment at constant cutting speed and load.

Catherine Kelly, general manager, says "The new module represents an affordable method of bridging the gap between a manually operated machine and a fully automated CNC sharpening system." Hall 5, Stand 5349