Cryogenic Machining Partnership Formed

April 24, 2015
News Release
Metalworking

5ME and Okuma America have joined forces to demonstrate the advantages of cryogenic machining, including fast processing, long tool life, increased part quality, and low environmental impact. The strategic partnership establishes two cryo demonstration facilities—one at 5ME’s Technical Center in Warren, Mich., and the other at Okuma’s Aerospace Center of Excellence in Charlotte, N.C.—where manufacturers can test various machining processes using 5ME’s cryogenic machining technology. Both facilities will have Okuma machines equipped with cryogenic systems that use vacuum jacketed feed lines to deliver small flow rates of liquid nitrogen (LN2) through the tool directly to the cutting edge.

“Cryogenic machining is particularly suited to the processing of tough materials like hardened/stainless/alloy steels, INCONEL®, and titanium, commonly used in aerospace part production,” said Pete Tecos, executive vice president of 5ME. “Okuma was an early adopter of cryogenic machining, and this partnership will continue the development of cryogenic machining applications and allow manufacturers to present real-world production challenges to determine how cryo can provide a solution.”