New “Mini” External Thread Grinder Targets Small Parts Makers

With a work envelope of just 100mm x100mm, Drake’s new GS:TEM “MINI” 3-Axis Thread Grinder is aimed at higher volume, precision threaded parts manufacturers in the cutting tool, automotive, aerospace and medical equipment industries. Drake recently shipped its first “MINI” to an Asian manufacturer of taps and other cutting tools. The machine was equipped with fast-cycling rocker-style magazine autoloader that was configured to grind taps–M10 size and smaller. The machine is equipped with a diamond roll contour dresser for dressing complex topping and non-topping wheel forms including: full radius and gothic arch, acme with crest and root radii or chamfers, as well as 60°, Whitworth, ISO, buttress and other thread forms. If you’re grinding small taps, thread rolls, thread gages, worms, ballscrews, e-steering components, aerospace fasteners and surgical bone screws, this machine deserves a look. Like all Drake grinders the GS:TE-MINI comes equipped with Drake’s PartSmart™ menu-driven software with customer’s parts pre-programmed into its system. No programming knowledge is needed. The operator simply follows the screen prompts and enters the values. With a cell-friendly footprint, the MINI is easily integrated into manufacturing cells. Only 1.2m wide x 1.8m deep and weighing 3,000kg, the MINI can be moved around the shop easily via forklifts.