ANCA's FX7 Ultra for Small Tools

“The FX7 Ultra introduces cutting-edge technologies that revolutionize precision grinding for small tools down to 0.1mm diameter. If you produce tools such as ballnose, corner radius endmills, and complex or intricate profile tools, then this machine is for you,” says Darren Fox, ANCA Product Manager.

New software, hardware, and design features significantly improve surface finish, accuracy, and controlled runout, ensuring batch consistency from the first ground tool to the last. The FX7 Ultra is a refined solution for precision grinding in industries that rely on small tools, including electronics, telecommunications, medical devices, aerospace, automotive, die mold, and general machining.

Features of FX7 Ultra:

One-nanometer control system,

new servo control algorithm for smooth motion,

system and mechanical upgrades enhance stiffness and rigidity,
in-process measuring, balancing and runout compensation for consistent accuracy,
Motor Temperature Control (MTC) – ANCA’s patented innovation, and
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specialist training support from our engineering experts on how to grind perfect cutting tools.

The FX7 Ultra grinds tools with a fine surface finish and great accuracy—which improves tool performance and quality.

“The Ultra technology has enabled the production of high-quality small tools with the capability to grind down to a size as small as 0.1mm. The nanometer control enables micro-adjustments for smoother axis movement resulting in optimal tool geometry, ensuring superior cutting performance and surface finish. These advancements will have a significant impact across the entire tool range, enabling precise and efficient grinding operations for a variety of applications,” Darren concludes.

Pat Boland, ANCA co-founder says: “Our customers who supply to industries where intricate and precise machining operations are paramount are always striving for the best quality tools, and now they can stay ahead of the game with the FX7 Ultra. After years of dedicated research and development, the FX7 Ultra is set to revolutionize the way we manufacture small tools.”

A technical look at the FX7 Ultra's features:

Greater control for the velocity and acceleration or deceleration along with machine jerk limits: To increase the stiffness of the C-axis, the FX7 Ultra combines developments to the nanometer or micro degree resolution in the linear and rotary axis, tuning parameters, several system enhancements, and major mechanical changes.

Ultra-fast response to internal or external disturbances: ANCA’s newly designed servo control algorithm allows silky smooth motion of an axis with the use of a unique algorithm and nanometer measurement in the control system. This will create finer cutting edges and eliminate micro-chips making it more efficient when used in actual machining of materials.

Better cycle time and higher productivity of high-quality cutting tools: The unique algorithm is key to the performance of the machine and ensures outstanding tracking performance. It also allows Ultra-performance of the servo system without using a complex, complicated, or expensive mechanical system.

Reduces setup times and scrap: Cutting-edge software has been developed by ANCA to ensure batch consistency in large volumes. LaserUltra will maintain consistency and accuracy of the grinding process which includes in-process measurement and compensation to accommodate wheel wear and other external variations during large batch grinding. Its analog capability can maintain less than +/- 0.002mm line form accuracy of any profile which includes ballnose and corner radius tools.

Increased wheel life and better-quality tools: Tool and wheel performance can be further optimized by the iBalance software, which guides a user to the optimal grinding position and RPM for vibration monitoring and balancing the wheelpack inside the machine. Correctly balanced wheelpacks result in superior surface finish and reduced wheel wear due to the elimination of wheel vibration.