[woodwhisperer]

Musical instrument manufacturer in Central New Jersey (Township of Neptune) needs help / advice on retiring / replacing old CNC machines, salvaging programs and fixtures, and generally improving our manufacturing processes.

www.Malletech.com

We have a new Haas DT2 which is gradually being programmed for the smaller parts to replace a 1993 LeadWell with a Fanuc controller. The tool changer is gone on the LeadWell and we don't anticipate investing in another repair. We also have a 1987 (!) Ikegai TV4 with an old Fanuc controller which is a dedicated machine for one operation. The keypads are actually worn off. Eighteen years ago, someone programmed a very useful "Macro" program for it that allows us to punch in a couple of variable values and have the machine make a limitless number of different sized, but similar shape "tone bars" for our musical instruments. Can this program be copied, transferred, or reproduced to operate on a more modern machine? We have an Allen-Bradley 8400 control on an old Cintimatic 2V CNC with a Trundle table - also for a dedicated operation that requires 4 axis. That CNC has a custom fixture to hold and tilt 6 parts per load. We'd like to save the fixture if at all possible. There is a Hardinge gang tool lathe with a Fagor which we don't use, but should (or sell it). In short, we need some expert advice, if not actual programming.

[Algirdas]

1. Check what local dealers are operating at your area.
2. Show them your parts ( drawings, 3D models, whatever you have ) and ask for quotation of machinetool with tool set.
3. Select the best set of machines
4. Make a comparison table to see the best offer.
and so on ...
or ...
Just buy 3D printer capable to print metal.