Manufacturing facilities today use many CNC machines for efficient production. While these machines generally offer consistent performance and repeatability, they can still exhibit unexpected behavior due to tool damage or unforeseen factors. BK Mikro, which is sold by Techna-Tool, is a monitoring system that addresses these issues. It is typically used for broken tool detection but can also be used for process monitoring tasks, including position recognition, object inspection, and identifying part defects. These systems have been widely utilized in manufacturing workshops for years.
Over the years, various models of BK Mikro scanners have been developed, with the TK8A being one of the most popular options. Notably, these scanners utilize a servo motor and encoder, ensuring precise measurements. However, that’s not all; this post delves deeper into the features of TK8A and how they can enhance your tool and process monitoring operations.
TK8A scanners primary purpose is detecting broken tools inside the CNC tool changer. To gain better insights into its operation and utilization, consider the following key points:
- System Parts and Accessories: The system includes a control unit (version depends on the interface, i.e., Proibus, Profinet, Device Net, or Discrete IO), TK8A scanner (motor), BKC10 connection cable, and BK7-8MB mounting bracket.
- Principle of Operation: The TK8A scanner efficiently operate in CNC machine shops, identifying tool lengths and analyzing for tool breakage. Tool lengths are stored in BK Mikro 9’s memory through binary M-code, Macro or fieldbus, allowing storage of up to 512 lengths. The scanner calculates lengths based on the angle the wand travels from its home position before contacting the tooltip, ensuring precise tool recognition during use.
- Different tools are used in manufacturing jobs, such as drills, taps, and end mills. After machining, the tool is returned to the tool changer, where the TK8A scanner checks its length and compares it with stored data within a tolerance window. If the length falls within the window, an “OK” signal is output. If the tool is broken and the wand travels beyond the stored position, a “KO” signal is generated, which stops the machine. The TK8A scanner can measure tool length differences of up to 15 inches in the tool changer. For even greater differences in length, our TK91A scanner is available.
A Focus on Important Features of TK8A
The TK8A scanners are rapidly replacing other methods of broken tool detection in the market, thanks to the following key features.
- TK8A features an anodized aluminum housing for enhanced durability, corrosion resistance, and improved aesthetics. The coating protects the scanner from scratches, oxidation, and wear during daily operations.
- TK8A is IP68 rated, providing the highest level of protection against water ingress and solid particles. This makes it suitable for use in environments exposed to dirt, dust, and similar elements.
- The scanner can operate across wide temperature ranges from 0°C to +80°C.
- TK8A scanner withstands over 10 million sensing cycles, assuming normal deceleration. The sensing cycle refers to the total number of times the device can sense tool lengths before encountering degradation or wear. Deceleration indicates the scanner’s performance under normal conditions, without acceleration or stress.
Do you have any questions about BK Mikro TK8A scanner’s tool and process monitoring capabilities? Need a free consultation to explore its utility in your CNC machining center? Fill out the short Request for Consultation form, or contact the Techna Tool team today. Their experts will help you understand the scanner’s capabilities and explore its potential use in your production facilities.