The drill is characterized by a parabolic flute profile with a 50% larger web and greater chip space than conventional twist drills, and employs a helix angle of 40° – the standard helix angle being 30°. This design provides high rigidity and process reliability thanks to excellent chip formation and chip evacuation. It also reduces or eliminates the need for pecking cycles even at maximum drilling depths. In many applications, drilling to a depth of 10-12xD without pecking is possible. In comparison, standard twist drills have to withdraw much earlier in order to allow for chip removal.

The new drill’s HSS-E (5% cobalt content) substrate provides high heat resistance and its TiAIN tip coating boosts cutting parameters and tool life, while its special U form point geometry promotes reliable chip formation and low cutting forces.

The new Titex UFL® is suitable for all ISO material groups. The new drill’s available diameter range is from 1 to 12 mm.

www.walter-tools.com/us

He holds an Associate's degree in laser/electro optics from Vincennes University, a Bachelor's degree in industrial technology from Ball State University and an Master's degree in management from Indiana Wesleyan University.

"Our machine tool customers look to us for superior fabrication equipment, as well as the application support to increase productivity and grow their businesses," said Kirchoff. "I look forward to serving these existing customers, as well as the opportunity to deliver these advantages to new ones."

Cincinnati Incorporated provides manufacturers throughout North America with accurate, dependable laser cutting and automated load/unload systems, as well as metal fabrication equipment, including press brakes and brake tooling, shears and conveyor systems, powder metal presses, and control and brake backgage upgrades.

www.e-ci.com

4-axis machining of bar and chuck parts
The CTX beta 800 4A, from GILDEMEISTER Drehmaschinen GmbH, is a compact centre with TWIN concept for complex 4-axis complete machining of bar, shaft and chuck parts. This turning centre opens up the field of 4-axis production turning to the medium-sized component range up to 735 mm turning length and 300 mm diameter for chuck machining and up to 102 mm clearance respectively for complete machining of bar parts. The centre has a liquid cooled main and counter spindle, two DirectDrive turrets including Y-axis and TRIFIX quick tool change system as well as the patented TWIN concept with traversable counter spindle/tailstock combination.

The DirectDrive in the turrets supplies the driven tools with 34 Nm torque and rpms up to 10,000 min-1 each. Both DirectDrive turrets have a Y-axis, whereby the top turret provides an operational range of ±60, while the bottom turret is traversable by ±40 mm in the Y-direction. Liquid cooled spindles ensure maximum temperature stability in the process and (together with the direct measuring systems in the X-axes) highest production safety and precision, while rapid traverse speeds up to 45 m/min keep process times to a minimum.

Both DirectDrive turrets are equipped with the TRIFIX precision interface at all tool stations. Complicated adjusting inside the machine is now unnecessary. Instead, the tools are positioned in the fixture when changing with the TRIFIX interface, which decreases setup time by up to 80 percent. Furthermore, TRIFIX has proven to have an excellent repeat accuracy in the µm range and a highly stable tool holder.

Performance offensive in horizontal machining
With the DMC 60 H linear, DMG / Mori Seiki features a horizontal machining centre with high precision and continuous accuracy on the one hand, speed and dynamics on the other; add to this extreme reliability in serial production and modular configuration levels as well as intelligent automation concepts for adaptation to individual process chains and factory processes. The centre features high positioning accuracy of less than 4 µm, with a repeat accuracy of less than 6 µm. The linear drives are used for acceleration values of 1 g and speeds of up to 100 m/min, which keeps process times to a minimum. The modular concept provides the flexibility for a customer to always be able to find the right machine configuration for any manufacturing task – from the Powertrain version with direct loading capacity from the top/front to the automated 5-axis machining with integrated swivel-round table.

Possible applications of the DMC 60 H linear include gearbox and coupling housings, cylinder heads or, for example, hydraulic blocks. However, with this most recent model of the DMC H series, DMG / Mori Seiki creates the basis for a broad range of applications, starting with the optimum use of the work area. In the standard version, the maximum workpiece size is ø 800 x 1,030 mm with a weight of up to 600 kg. The travelling column concept enables traverse paths of 630, 800 and 850 mm in X-, Y- and Z-direction. The space requirement for the machine is 11.9 m² for the pallet changer version.

The linear drives of the X-, Y- and Z-axes are at the centre of the machine concept and feature traverse speeds of up to 100 m/min and acceleration values of 1 g. An oil/air lubricated model is used as the main spindle for the standard version with 12,000 min-1. It has a capacity of 20 kW and a torque of 110 Nm. Optionally an 18,000 rpm spindle with 34 kW and 110 Nm is available. For heavy machining, DMG / MORI SEIKI provide a spindle with a powerful torque with 10,000 min-1, 46 kW and 200 Nm.

The compact rotary magazine is one of the highlights of this machine. The basic version of the system has a magazine with 63 tools, which can be extended by four more rings with 60 additional pockets each. It features a slim design of 2,500 mm, a fast provisioning time of 3.4 up to max. 5.6 seconds and chip-to-chip times of 2.2 seconds.

Compact horizontal machining
The compact precision-horizontal machining centre NHX4000 is now built within the scope of the cooperation between DMG and Mori Seiki at DECKEL MAHO Pfronten. Following the world premiere of the NHX4000 with Siemens 840 D solutionline control at the EMO 2011 in Hanover, the NHX4000 with MAPPS IV control, produced at DECKEL MAHO in Pfronten, was presented at the company exhibition in Pfronten. Users now have the entire control competency of DMG / Mori Seiki at their disposal, which will probably help the new NHX series establish itself fully in Europe.

The NHX machine concept is based on Mori Seiki's NH series, of which more than 6,000 machines have been installed worldwide. The idea behind the machine is to offer quality performance, at a good price and in a compact footprint of just 12.5 m².

Christian Thönes, Board Member of the GILDEMEISTER AG and Managing Director of DECKEL MAHO Pfronten GmbH, notes: “The NHX4000 with its tiered travelling column and a multitude of additional innovative features is a top class horizontal machining centre.” The concerted interaction of the mechanical engineering expertise of DECKEL MAHO and Mori Seiki plays its part therein as much as the adapted Siemens 840D operating system. He continues: “Due to the attractive price and the close proximity to the market in the area of horizontal machining, we are sure to be able to crucially expand our position in this machine segment.”

The workpiece range of the NHX4000 with 400-pallet accommodates workpieces up to 630 mm diameter and 900 mm height. The work area is 560 × 560 × 660 mm (in X x Y x Z). The centre has a circular accuracy of < 1.7 μm (with 2,000 mm/min feed in X and Y as well as 100 mm radius). The linear axes travel at speeds up to 60 m/min, with acceleration values up to 9 m/s². In the process itself, users can choose from spindle rotational speeds in the standard version of up to 12,000 min-1 and a torque of 110 Nm. The high-tech module optionally also provides an 8,000 rpm spindle with 30 kW.

The standard version of the machine has a ring magazine with a capacity of 40 pockets, which can be extended to 60 pockets. The tool changer features a chip-to-chip time of just up to 2.8 seconds. The pallet changing time is 8 seconds.

5-axis milling with automatic 3-fold pallet changer
With the DMC 65 monoBLOCK, DMG / Mori Seiki present their youngest development for complex chipping tasks in highly productive production companies.

The highlight of the new 5-axis machining centre is the automatic pallet changer with three pallets, which is adapted to the machine in a way that the work and setup area remain equally well accessible. Crane loading from the top to the centre of the table is also possible. The floor space required for the system is 16.5 m². The pallets have a size of 500 x 500 mm and can be loaded with workpieces up to 500 kg. The diameter and height of the components reach up to 630 mm and 500 mm respectively.

The combination of highly productive 5-axis milling machine and separately accessible pallet changer reduces setup times in practice and leaves users with enough play for flexible planning. In the area of single piece machining in particular, the concept of the DMC 65 monoBLOCK® plays to its full capacity.

The DMC 65 monoBLOCK has a work area with the dimensions 650 x 650 x 560 mm (in X-, Y- and Z-direction) and houses a fast swivel-round table. A tool magazine with 30 pockets, optionally up to 180 pockets, which can be comfortably operated from the front, has chip-to-chip times of 4.9 seconds. All configuration levels of the tool magazine are integrated directly into the machine, whereby even the magazine for 120 pockets requires no additional space.

The dynamic, universal machine
DMG / Mori Seiki also introduces the DMU 80 eVo with integrated pallet changer. Just one year after its introduction, the 5-axis universal milling machine has quickly developed to become a sales hit, which again gains in versatility and flexibility with its fast pallet changer.

The new DMU eVo generation from DECKEL MAHO Seebach has been completely revised and has now been implemented as gantry. This increases the machine’s stiffness and accuracy. The “optimised gantry” provides (compared to the classic version) improved accessibility from the side as well as larger traverse paths and a bigger work area with less space requirements. The successful concept of the swivel rotary table was maintained, but table load, dynamics and swivel area have been increased.

The system includes traverse paths of 800, 650 and 550 mm in the X-, Y- and Z-direction. The work surface of the swivel-round table is 800 x 700 mm. This can be loaded with 600 kg and has a swivel range of -5 to +110 degrees, which enables undercuts up to 20 degrees. Rapid traversing speeds of 50 min-1 in B- and C-axes provide the DMU 80 eVo with its unique dynamics, which can additionally be increased with the dynamic package: Linear drives in the X-axis and Y-axis increase the speed from 50 m/min to 80 m/min.

The concept of the dynamic universal machine also includes the new pallet changer. It is integrated into the freely accessible work area, without increasing the machine’s footprint considerably, and has changeover cycles of 12 seconds. Whether in the automotive and aerospace industries or in tool making and medical engineering – this solution is suited to both single piece machining and serial production, where it provides the full performance of 5-axis simultaneous machining.

For more information, visit www.dmgmoriseiki.com. For distribution information in Canada for DMG and Mori Seiki, visit www.dmgcanada.com and www.etmoriseiki.com.

Over the 10 past years, Creaform has grown from a 5-employee metrology services start-up to a 300-employee international company and major developer and manufacturer of 3D portable optical measurement technology and provider of 3D engineering services.

The company has shown a 79% compounded growth rate since 2002, and has sold more than 2,500 systems in the past decade. Plus, the company has been awarded more than 30 prizes for its vision, innovation and success.

"Looking back at the past decade and considering the humble means that we had in 2002, I'm just in awe of what we have accomplished, and how fast we became a major player in the 3D optical measurement technology industry, says president Charles Mony. This might sound a bit cliché, but all of this was made possible by the innovation spirit and tireless work of our crew, the support of our partners and the confidence of our ever-growing client base. 10 years have gone by, and yet our drive, passion and determination remain absolutely intact. "

According to Creaform's quinquennial strategic plan, the company expects to increase its already fast-paced growth rate and also strengthen its position as a major player in the industry of metrology. Furthermore, the company follows a very ambitious R&D program that will lead to the development and launch of several new technologies reflecting Creaform's commitment to create innovative, accurate, reliable and easy to use devices.

Creaform specializes in 3D portable optical measurement technologies and 3D engineering services. The company offers solutions that cover the entire range of 3D applications, including 3D scanning, reverse engineering, inspection, design & engineering and FEA. Its products and services are intended for industries such as automotive, aerospace and defence, and manufacturing.

Creaform has developed and sells the Handyscan 3D line of portable, self-positioning handheld 3D scanners, along with the HandyPROBE portable arm-free CMM and the MetraSCAN optical CMM 3D scanner, two systems designed for inspection applications. The company has recently launched the MaxSHOT 3D optical coordinate measuring system that brings photogrammetry to all these technologies.

www.creaform3d.com

All figures are stated in Canadian dollars.

COM DEV's commercial division and its U.S. division each won a contract valued at approximately $10 million. In addition, the commercial group won an Authorization to Proceed (ATP) on a third contract, enabling engineering activity to begin and production to start.  The ATP is initially valued at $2.7 million, and is expected to lead to a full contract with a total value in excess of $6 million.  Work on all three contracts is expected to be completed over the next 12 months at the Company's facilities in Cambridge, Ontario and El Segundo, California.

"This is an exciting series of contract wins for us," said Michael Pley, CEO of COM DEV. "We are seeing solid demand for our products in both the commercial space market and the U.S. government market."

COM DEV is a leading global provider of space hardware and services, with facilities in Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States.

www.comdevintl.com

The three-year contract is valued at 5.75 million dollars and includes options for up to seven additional years of work. The primary contract activity is the maintenance inspection and repair on ten CT-114 Tutors each year. The work will be completed at 8 Wing in Trenton, Ontario, and will employ approximately 20 individuals including technicians, support and management personnel.

David Gossen, IMP Aerospace President, stated "IMP Aerospace is proud to be awarded the contract to provide maintenance support for Canada's world class Air Demonstration Squadron. IMP has over 40 years of experience in delivering high quality service to numerous RCAF aircraft fleets and will ensure that the CT-114 Tutor contract is executed to the same high standard of excellence."

IMP Aerospace, based in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and with operations across Canada, employs 1,800 people and provides a broad spectrum of engineering, manufacturing and maintenance services to the global aerospace industry.

www.impgroup.com

"We are very proud to receive AJAC's 2012 Best New Technology award for the Voltec propulsion system," said Kevin Williams, president and managing director at GM of Canada. "The Voltec propulsion system is the heart of the Chevrolet Volt, which combines pure electric drive and an efficient range-extending engine to create the only electric vehicle on the market today that does not require a customer to make compromises on when and where they can travel."

This year's winner was chosen from a short-list of ten entries, judged by a panel of AJAC members with specific technical qualifications, who regularly report on automotive engineering and technical trends. The Voltec system edged out Mazda's Skyactiv G gasoline technology to win the award.

"This was the strongest field of entries ever, in the 16-year history of the award," explained AJAC's technology award chairman, Gerry Malloy. "The Voltec system is a worthy winner, for it is truly a pioneering technology that is certain to be adopted by other vehicles in the future."

The AJAC Best New Technology award, presented by Shell Canada, was established to recognize new and innovative technologies that provide real value to the consumer. Past winners have ranged from run-flat tires through various hybrid, suspension and safety technologies.

The significance of the Best New Technology award has been growing steadily over the past few years as has the degree of rigor to which entries are submitted. It is part of AJAC's annual Canadian Car of the Year awards program, which was created in 1985 with the purpose of providing consumers with sound, comparative information on vehicles that are new to the market.

The Canadian Car and Utility Vehicle of the Year as well as the Best New Design of 2012 were also announced at the CIAS. Comparative test data derived from the journalists' extensive four day "TestFest" evaluation of 170 new vehicles in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario in October, are available to consumers on the AJAC website (www.ajac.ca). Shell Canada is the official fuel supplier of the event.

www.ajac.ca

The agency says manufacturing now has rebounded close to the $50.2 billion recorded in October 2008, when the economic downturn began.

Monthly sales for seven of 21 manufacturing industries have reached or surpassed  levels recorded in 2008.

Sales in December increased in 12 of 21 industries representing about two-thirds of manufacturing, with gains coming primarily in durable goods industries, where sales rose 2.1 per cent.

Sales of non-durable goods fell 0.9 per cent.

For 2011 as a whole, manufacturing sales amounted to $571 billion, up 7.8 per cent from 2010, with higher sales in the petroleum and coal products, primary metal, machinery and transportation equipment industries.

Sales by motor vehicle manufacturers rose 2.9 per cent in December to $4.3 billion, the highest monthly total since November 2007.

Sales in the motor vehicle parts industry rose 5.5 per cent to $1.9 billion.

The transportation equipment industry as a whole had the largest dollar gains of any industry, with a 3.7 per cent increase in sales to $8.5 billion. This was the seventh consecutive monthly increase.

Plastics and rubber products sales increased 7.5 per to $2.1 billion, their highest level since August 2007. The rise reflected higher sales volumes.

Greater sales volumes were entirely responsible for a 2.7 per cent increase in the primary metal industry to $4.2 billion, the third consecutive monthly gain.

The overall December sales increase was partly offset by a 5.6 per cent decline among petroleum and coal product manufacturers to $6.9 billion.

Manufacturing sales rose in four provinces in December, with most of the increase was located in Central Canada. Combined sales in Ontario and Quebec were up $741 million, while sales declined $445 million in the rest of Canada.

With the gains in December, Ontario, Alberta, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Saskatchewan surpassed their sales levels recorded in October 2008.

The deal, signed at the Singapore International Air Show, is with ICBC Financial leasing company, a major player in the Chinese aircraft leasing market in addition to its activities in the global leasing market for ships and industrial equipment.

"In working with Bombardier partners and customers in China, EDC hopes to help create liquidity solutions to bring Canadian aircraft to this important growing market, to the benefit of Canada's aerospace industry," said Carl Marcotte, vice-president, Transportation Group, EDC.

"We hope to develop near-term transaction opportunities in Europe and Asia into financing commitments within the first half of the year," Marcotte , said in a release.

Last March, Bombardier and ICBC Financial Leasing signed a separate memorandum of understanding to provide leasing and other financing, maintenance and service solutions for Bombardier's complete product line of commercial and business aircraft.

ICBC Financial Leasing is a strategic and wholly-owned subsidiary of Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Ltd., the world's largest bank.

The EDC is Canada's export credit agency, offering commercial solutions to help Canadian exporters and investors expand their international business.

EDC has two permanent representations in China, located in Shanghai and Beijing. In 2010, 375 Canadian companies used EDC products and services to help undertake more than $4 billion in trade within the Chinese market.

Canadian merchandise exports to China for the period January to October 2011 were up 33 per cent year-on-year, reaching $12.8 billion. That equalled the total merchandise export trade to China from Canada for all of 2010.

In 2010, 954 Canadian exporters and investors in the transportation sector used EDC products and services to facilitate more than $9.8 billion in international business, the agency said.