WhizCut developed the WhizFix 2.0 system to address a familiar problem on Swiss-type lathes and compact turning platforms—tool changes that interrupt flow, consume setup time, and introduce inconsistency. WhizFix 2.0 approaches this problem with a modular quick-change holder that maintains the rigidity and accuracy expected from a solid toolholder while significantly reducing changeover time.

The system is built around a compact dovetail interface that allows insert heads to be exchanged directly on the machine. Locking and unlocking requires only a short rotation, with low torque values that reduce wear on both the holder and insert head.

Once locked, the insert head repeats its position consistently, eliminating the need for touch-offs after routine changes. This repeatability supports stable dimensional control across longer production runs.

WhizFix 2.0 maintains a short distance between the insert tip and the holder plate, which improves cutting stability and supports finer surface finishes. The holder geometry is intentionally compact, making it well-suited for machines where tool clearance and gang spacing are critical. Despite its modular design, the system performs with the stiffness typically associated with one-piece holders.

The system is offered in a range of configurations to support common Swiss turning operations, including turning, grooving, and profiling. Insert heads can be shared across compatible holders, reducing overall tooling inventory while increasing flexibility at the machine.

WhizCut's WhizFix 2.0 fits well into production environments where uptime, repeatability, and quick changeovers directly affect throughput. That's a marketing line that pretty much identifies anyone running a swiss machine shop. And in this particular case, its jsut true.   WhizFix 2.0 delivers in setup efficiency without adding complexity to the process, making it a practical upgrade for every swiss machine.

If you’ve been in the machining game for a while, the name Command Tooling Systems probably rings a bell—and for good reason. Since their founding in 1981 in Ramsey, Minnesota, Command has been setting the bar for rotary toolholders in North America, known for precision, innovation, and rock-solid performance. You might even remember when they were the first to guarantee an AT3 taper on steep taper holders—an industry first that raised expectations across the board.

Now, there’s a new chapter in the Command story.

In 2024, Command Tooling officially became part of the EWS Group, one of the most respected names in driven tooling and modular quick-change systems around the globe.

The move formed EWS USA, combining Command’s U.S.-based toolholder manufacturing strength with EWS’s German-engineered innovation. And here’s the big news: JMI CNC Tooling & Automation has now partnered with EWS USA to offer Command’s full lineup of toolholders to our customers across the region.

Why This Matters to Your Shop
If you’re managing tight tolerances, pushing RPMs, or constantly battling tool change issues, Command’s lineup still delivers the kind of performance that keeps machines running and parts in spec. These aren’t your average holders—they’re built with the kind of details that matter:

• AT3 or Better Shank Tapers – You get consistent, accurate spindle contact for every changeout.
• Fully Ground Flanges with V-Grooves – Tool changers run smoother and last longer.
• Shrink-Fit Technology – No set screws or collets—just unbeatable gripping force and precision.
• Balanced and Ready for Speed – High-speed machining stays smooth and vibration-free.
• Coolant-Through Options – Keep things cool when the chips are flying.

Command’s toolholders have always been designed for real-world machining—built to handle the loads, hold tight tolerances, and last in production environments.

What’s New with EWS USA?
With Command now under the EWS umbrella, you’re not just getting a toolholder—you’re getting access to a much broader system of rotary and driven tooling, quick-change options like EWS Varia VX, and an expanded line of precision-engineered solutions that are making waves in 5-axis, Swiss, and high-mix/low-volume applications.

Why Buy From JMI CNC Tooling & Automation?
At JMI, we’ve been helping shops like yours find better, smarter solutions that reduce downtime and boost throughput. With the Command/EWS lineup now in our toolbox, we can offer:

• Local Support – Get answers fast. We’re not just moving boxes—we’re here to help.
• Increased Availability – U.S. manufacturing means better lead times.
• Real Application Know-How – We’ve been in shops across the region. We understand the problems you're trying to solve.

Ready to Take a Closer Look?
Whether you're using CAT40, CAT50, BT, HSK, or shrink-fit systems, the Command brand still stands for precision and performance. And now—with EWS innovation and JMI’s support behind it—it’s a smarter time than ever to revisit what Command has to offer your shop.

Reach out to the JMI CNC Tooling & Automation team today to learn how Command’s toolholders can help you push harder, cut cleaner, and run longer.
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Fine-tune your way into the future of backworking, with WhizAdjust, an adjustable toolholder system from WhizCut!

Take back working to a new level with Whizcut WhizAdjust and enjoy the flexibility. This is an innovative and patented toolholder system that is perfect for turning against the sub spindle. The height adjustment goes quick and easy - without loss of stability.

The quick: The fine-tune adjustment screw together with stable clamping makes it possible to modify center height. Loosen one clamping screw from the WhizAdjust head and shank - and the adjustment is done. It is as easy as that.

The stable: The shank and adjustable head are positioned together with serrated surfaces in X axis and the adjustment screw plus a spring in Y. The repeatability, by removing the toolholder and fastening it again, is under 0,005. ​

South Carolina's  manufacturing sector is growing at a record pace that shows no signs of slowing, from global manufacturing headquarters to expanding advanced operations. Greenville County alone has averaged manufacturing employment growth of more than 17% over the last decade.
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That momentum makes Greenville the ideal hub for small and medium-sized manufacturers across the Southeast to come together, share ideas, and discover the latest technology that keeps shops competitive.
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We’re bringing a lineup of high-performance tooling and workholding partners that solve real problems on the shop floor:

• AB Tool – Home of the Shear Hog and AccuHold! Special carbide cutting tools delivered in 3–6 days.
• MAQ – Vibration-damped tool holders for internal turning operations from 3xD up to 15xD. 
• Microconic by Masa Tool – Subspindle workholding for Swiss & CNC lathes
• Pratt Burnerd America – Precision lathe chucks and workholding systems
• Soph Magnetics – Magnetic workholding and material handling solutions

While you’re at the show, make sure to stop by our other partners right in our aisle!

• AKKO - Booth 1934 –  A global leader in precision tooling since 1986, AKKO delivers high‑performance rotary toolholders, turning and milling toolholders, and a broad range of precision carbide inserts—tailored for minimal vibration, exceptional surface finish, and versatility across applications
• Blue Photon Technology & Workholding Systems LLC – Booth 1929 - They offer an innovative, patented adhesive workholding system—ideal for gripping complex or delicate parts without distortion, and enabling full 5- or 6-sided access, even in heavy milling of titanium and superalloys.
• EWS USA/ Command Tooling – Booth 1932 - EWS is a global expert in live and static toolholders and modular machining systems; in North America, they operate through the U.S.-based Command Tooling facility, offering precision solid and rotary toolholders under both brands.
• Jergens Workholding – Booth 1928 - A worldwide leader in custom CNC workholding—including vises, clamps, fixturing systems, and their patented Ball Lock® mounting and Fixture‑Pro® 5-Axis solutions—a go-to for boosting set‑up speed and machining productivity. You can also check out the workholdig in action just across the Aisle in the Innova Machine Tool Booth.  They are featuring Jergens workholding on their WSI WVM380 CNC machine.

(Click each name to add them directly to your show planner.
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When it comes to internal turning, one of the most overlooked—yet most critical—decisions a machinist can make is selecting the right boring bar for the job. Get it wrong, and you’re likely to face the age-old enemy of precision machining: chatter.

​Chatter: The Cost of Poor Setup
​Chatter isn’t just a nuisance—it’s a performance killer. It introduces erratic vibrations that compromise surface finish, reduce tool life, and wreak havoc on tolerances. Chatter most commonly occurs when a boring bar lacks the rigidity needed to withstand cutting forces.
Several factors can lead to chatter:

• Improper tool setup, including weak clamping or poor alignment
• Incorrect speeds and feeds, which generate unstable cutting conditions
• Material inconsistencies, such as varying hardness or density
• Tool wear or degradation over time
• Lack of machine or setup rigidity, especially in long overhang applications
• And most importantly—boring bar length-to-diameter ratio (L/D)

Perhaps MAQ said it best right on their homepage:
"The cutting process will become unstable due to vibration, usually in the form of forced vibrations in machining and regenerative tool chatter. That is often solved by trying to stabilize the process with a lower cutting speed, reduced depth of cut, or increased feed per revolution.
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The problem with these actions is that you either reduce production speed or that the surface finish is affected negatively. Usually, it means higher production costs as well. Vibration damping machine tools are necessary to expand the stable working zones of a metal cutting process." 

The longer the tool sticks out from the holder in relation to its diameter, the more flexible it becomes. That flexibility translates into vibration. Fortunately, choosing the right material and sticking within recommended L/D ratios can dramatically reduce the risk of chatter.
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The L/D ratio is a simple concept with major implications. It refers to how far the boring bar extends into the workpiece relative to its diameter. As this ratio increases, rigidity decreases—and that’s where different bar materials come into play.  Just remember 4-6-8-10 as a memory cue as you read this.

Here's how it breaks down:

Steel Boring Bars – Max L/D Ratio: 4:1
Steel boring bars are your go-to for short-reach, general-purpose applications. However, once you exceed 4x the bar diameter, rigidity starts to drop off fast. That can lead to deflection and chatter. Stick to 4:1 or less when using steel.

Heavy Metal Boring Bars – Max L/D Ratio: 6:1
Made from tungsten-based alloys, heavy metal boring bars provide better vibration damping than steel. This allows you to safely push the L/D ratio up to 6:1, giving you extra reach while maintaining acceptable rigidity and precision.

Carbide Boring Bars – Max L/D Ratio: 8:1
Carbide boring bars bring serious stiffness and heat resistance to the table. With an L/D ratio up to 8:1, they’re ideal for deep boring applications that demand both reach and accuracy. Carbide’s high modulus of elasticity helps minimize deflection under load.

Devibe Boring Bars – Max L/D Ratio: 10:1 or More
When you need even more reach—and can't afford to compromise on surface finish—a Devibe or vibration-damped boring bar is the best tool for the job. With L/D ratios of 10:1 and beyond, these bars are engineered with internal damping mechanisms (like tuned mass dampers or viscoelastic inserts) to absorb and counteract vibrations.

The Bottom Line
Choosing the correct boring bar isn't just about length or diameter—it's about achieving the right balance of rigidity, reach, and vibration control to meet your production goals.

Whether you're dealing with standard steel bars or pushing the limits with long-reach internal turning, matching the correct L/D ratio to the right bar material is essential to avoid chatter, maintain precision, and extend tool life.

Remember 4 - 6 - 8 -10!

• 4 = Steel
• 6 = Heavy Metal
• 8 =- Carbide
• 10 = Device bar

If you're facing challenging boring applications, the JMI CNC Tooling & Automation team is here to help. From common setups to extreme overhangs, we can provide proven solutions—including the advanced MAQ DeVibe Bars, engineered to dampen vibration and perform reliably even at 10:1 L/D ratios or more.

​Reach out to us today to discuss your specific application—we’ll help you eliminate chatter and improve performance, no matter how demanding the cut.

Keeping your CNC turning center productive means that every second counts. Downtime spent changing tools, realigning holders, or indicating for TIR isn’t just inconvenient—it’s expensive. That’s why shops looking to maximize uptime and simplify setup are turning to EWS Varia VX, a modular quick-change tooling system engineered to streamline the entire tool change process.

According to Kenneth Jones at  JMI CNC Tooling & Automation,
​"We’ve seen firsthand how this system transforms lathe operations. Whether you’re working with driven tools, static holders, or custom applications, the EWS Varia VX platform delivers the performance, precision, and repeatability today’s machining environments demand."

The Setup Problem: Time Lost is Money Lost
Traditional toolholding methods often require clamping, loosening, and re-indicating tools every time you swap a holder. Whether you're using direct-mount holders or collet chucks, even small delays across multiple changeovers quickly add up—especially on machines with high tool counts or when you're running small batch jobs with frequent changeovers.

In contrast, quick-change systems like the EWS Varia VX drastically reduce that lost time. Instead of fiddling with wrenches and micrometers, you’re locked in and cutting again in seconds.

The EWS Varia VX system also addresses runout. Engineered for accuracy and repeatability, the Varia VX interface delivers repeat accuracy of ±0.002 mm (±0.000079"), ensuring consistent tool positioning with every change. This level of precision minimizes runout and directly improves surface finish, tool life, and dimensional control.

​The system's polygonal interface provides exceptional rigidity, supporting transmittable torque up to 160 Nm (VXT3) and 200 Nm (VXT4). Combined with coolant-through capability rated up to 80 bar, the Varia VX is ideal for high-performance, high-speed turning applications where concentricity and reliability are non-negotiable.

What is EWS Varia VX?
The EWS Varia VX system is a modular quick-change interface designed for lathe tool turrets, especially those using driven tools or live tooling stations. At the core of the VX system is a high-precision polygonal connection that transmits torque reliably without the need for a keyed drive. Combined with a form-locking interface and repeatable axial positioning, tools can be changed without removing the base unit or re-indicating the setup.

Key design elements include:

• Form-fit polygonal connection for maximum torque transmission
• Zero-point repeatability—ensuring accurate tool positioning every time
• Tool-free changeover with a simple twist-lock mechanism
• Modular interface—adapt to different tool types from a single base
• Coolant-through design ready for high-performance cutting applications

"You can switch out tools in less than 30 seconds—and know you’re back in position without guesswork." said Jones.

Built for Real-World Manufacturing
Whether you're running high-volume production or low-volume/high-mix work, the Varia VX system helps eliminate wasted time at the turret. Operators can confidently replace adapters on the fly, without pulling out indicators or aligning each tool from scratch.

And since EWS offers a wide range of adapter modules—milling heads, drills, angle heads, and more—the system is ready to scale with your needs. You invest in the base holders once, then build out tool configurations over time without needing to retool your entire machine.

by Bernard Martin

In workholding, every second counts, and reducing machine idle time is critical to improving productivity and workflow efficiency. Soph Magnetics, a global leader in magnetic workholding solutions, understands this challenge. Under their Brisc brand, they offer magnetic pallet chucks to streamline setup changes, maximize machine uptime, and ensure consistent precision in machining processes.
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Whether it’s for CNC mills, EDM machines, WEDM, or automated systems, Brisc pallet chucks deliver unmatched reliability and performance. Here’s a closer look at the types of pallet chucks available and how these solutions can revolutionize your production line.
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Under the Brisc brand, Soph Magnetics manufactures a comprehensive range of pallet chucks to meet a variety of workholding applications.

Permanent Magnetic Pallet Chucks
Permanent magnetic pallet chucks use high-strength magnets to securely hold workpieces without requiring a continuous power supply. This makes them an ideal solution for small to medium-sized parts where energy efficiency and safety are critical considerations. Since the magnetic force is always active, workpieces remain clamped even in the event of a power failure, ensuring reliable and consistent holding throughout the machining process.
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Custom Magnetic Pallet Chucks
For specialized machining requirements, Soph offers custom magnetic pallet chucks tailored to meet unique challenges. These solutions can include advanced features such as magnetic zoning, unique shapes, or robotic integration, depending on the application. Custom chucks are perfect for complex or non-standard workholding tasks, providing optimized performance that addresses specific production needs with precision and efficiency.
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Rapid Setup Changeovers
One of the key advantages of Brisc magnetic pallet chucks is their ability to drastically reduce setup times through quick and efficient changeovers. Workpieces can be prepped outside the machine on interchangeable pallets, saving valuable time during production. This offline preparation minimizes machine downtime by allowing operators to prepare the next job while machining is still underway.

When it’s time for a changeover, pallet swaps take just seconds and deliver repeatable accuracy, ensuring consistent positioning every time. Designed for seamless integration with robotic systems, Brisc pallet chucks are automation-ready, making them ideal for lights-out manufacturing and just-in-time production workflows. The result is reduced idle time and a smoother, more efficient production process.

Consistent, Repeatable Precision
Precision and repeatability are at the heart of every successful machining operation, and Brisc pallet chucks deliver both with exceptional reliability. By utilizing magnetic holding technology, they eliminate clamping pressure, which is particularly important for delicate or thin workpieces that are prone to distortion.

Each workpiece is clamped and positioned in the exact same way, ensuring high repeatability within tight tolerances, often in the micron range. This level of consistency reduces errors, minimizes scrap, and improves overall quality. With Brisc pallet chucks, manufacturers can achieve higher accuracy, less rework, and more efficient production.

Versatile Applications Across Machines and Materials
Brisc pallet chucks are built to handle a wide variety of manufacturing tasks, making them a versatile solution for any shop floor. They are compatible with various machining systems, including CNC milling, grinding, turning, EDM, and WEDM machines.

Beyond versatility in equipment, they are also ideal for a range of ferrous materials such as carbon steel, tool steel, and heat-treated alloys. For materials like high-carbon or hardened steels, Brisc pallet chucks effectively demagnetize workpieces to ensure clean finishes post-machining. This flexibility enables manufacturers to optimize workflows across multiple processes with a single, reliable workholding system.

Enhanced Productivity with Automation
Designed with automation in mind, Brisc pallet chucks are a perfect fit for robotic systems and automated manufacturing lines. They enable lights-out manufacturing by allowing robotic arms to quickly swap palletized workpieces, supporting continuous, unattended production.

​For batch runs, Brisc chucks minimize setup times, making small-to-medium runs more efficient. With higher throughput and less time spent on manual clamping adjustments, operators can focus on machining instead of repetitive tasks. By integrating Brisc pallet chucks into automated workflows, manufacturers can boost productivity, improve consistency, and streamline operations.

​Since 1998, Soph Magnetics has been a leading provider of magnetic workholding, mold and die clamping, and material handling solutions. Under their Brisc brand, Soph offers an extensive range of magnetic products, including permanent magnetic, electromagnetic, and electro-permanent magnetic chucks, designed for applications such as grinding, milling, turning, EDM, and WEDM.

Their dedication to innovation, precision, and reliability has made Brisc magnetic solutions a trusted choice for manufacturers worldwide.

At JMI CNC & Automation, we’re proud to represent Soph and their innovative Brisc magnetic solutions. Brisc pallet chucks are the ideal choice for reducing downtime, enhancing precision, and automating workflows.

Contact us today to learn how Brisc magnetic pallet chucks can optimize your operations and take your manufacturing to the next level!

The Tapmatic Scribewriter II stands out as a really unique solution for CNC machine marking applications, delivering precision, speed, and adaptability. Whether for part identification, serial numbers, or intricate markings, the Scribewriter II excels across a wide range of materials and applications.

Efficient and Versatile Performance
The Scribewriter II is engineered to mark materials up to 62 HRC in hardness and can accommodate surface variations of up to 5mm, ensuring consistent and accurate results. Unlike traditional marking tools, the Scribewriter performs without spindle rotation, making it faster, quieter, and ideal for high-throughput operations.

Its straightforward programming integrates seamlessly into CNC environments.
Operators can input marking programs directly at the machine control or use engraving software at their programming workstation, offering flexibility for both shop-floor and pre-programmed operations.

Adjustable Force and Depth for Customization
A big  feature of the Scribewriter II is its adjustable marking force and depth. Controlled by a knurled adjustment sleeve and a reference scale, the tool allows for quick, precise tuning without the need to change springs. This ensures optimal performance across different materials and marking requirements.

The Tapmatic Scribewriter’s adjustment settings range from 0 to 7, providing fine control for gradually increasing force. For applications involving particularly hard materials, a special "H" setting is available, enabling effective marking at maximum force.

To assist operators, the tool includes a high-quality magnification lens for accurate reading of force settings, ensuring consistent results regardless of the material or application.

Innovative Coolant System and Stylus Options
The Scribewriter II is equipped with high-pressure internal coolant capability, which enhances stylus lubrication and increases marking force. This feature minimizes wear on the carbide stylus, extending its lifespan and reducing maintenance downtime.

The carbide stylus itself is easy to change, offering durability and longevity even in demanding environments. Tapmatic provides a variety of stylus options, including:

• 90° and 60° carbide styluses for standard scribing applications.
• A new ballpoint stylus that delivers smooth, continuous lines with shallower depth compared to traditional scribing points. This option is particularly useful for applications requiring clean, visible markings without significant surface penetration.

Blue Photon has introduced five Grip Pallets and three new inserts for 52- and 96-mm quick-change receiver systems.  Blue Photon's Grip Pallet is a revolutionary adhesive workholding solution for machining complex, delicate, or hard-to-hold parts in EDM, grinding, inspection, laser, and milling applications. These systems are specifically designed to increase spindle uptime, reduce scrap, and streamline part loading in modern manufacturing operations.

Advanced Design for Enhanced Machining Access
The Grip Pallets allow for 5- and 6-sided machining by securely holding components without mechanical clamps, maximizing accessibility to critical surfaces. Available in 150-mm, 225-mm, and 300-mm square configurations, the pallets are compatible with standard 52-mm and 96-mm quick-change receiver systems already utilized in machining centers.

Each pallet accommodates Blue Photon’s patented gripper technology, known for delivering high clamping forces using UV-cured adhesive. The grippers hold parts firmly without distortion or damage, a critical advantage for thin-walled or precision components. This innovative adhesive workholding system is particularly suited for 5-axis machining, as it enables unrestricted access while maintaining rigidity and stability throughout the process.

Grip Pallet Specifications

• 150-mm Pallet: Available in aluminum or steel, designed with a 52-mm receiver pattern. Holds up to 9 grippers.
• 225-mm Pallet: Available in aluminum or steel, designed with a 96-mm receiver pattern. Holds up to 21 grippers.
• 300-mm Pallet: Available in aluminum with a 96-mm receiver pattern. Holds up to 33 grippers.

Each pallet includes:

• Two ergonomic handles in multiple color options for ease of handling.
• Four precision spacers with a 25.4-mm standoff, ensuring a consistent 1-mm nominal adhesive joint thickness between the gripper and the part.
• Optional clamp studs for integration with 5th Axis, Jergens, Lang, and Mate systems.

Versatility with New External Inserts
Blue Photon has developed three external insert options tailored to their small, medium, and large grippers. These inserts simplify gripper installation at the optimal height, delivering maximum adhesive holding power and flexibility to accommodate varying part geometries and sizes.

Easy Part Removal and Cleanup
Blue Photon’s Grip Pallets prioritize efficiency, not only during machining but also during part removal:

• Parts can be released with a ¼ turn twist of the gripper or by a hot-water soak.
• Residual adhesive can be easily removed with a handheld steamer or a light peeling action after soaking.

This intuitive removal process minimizes downtime and ensures the pallets are quickly reusable, maintaining production flow without compromising workholding performance.

Why Choose Blue Photon’s Grip Pallets?
​The Grip Pallet system is ideal for manufacturers seeking:

• A reliable solution for delicate or complex geometries.
• Improved access for multi-axis machining.
• Enhanced repeatability and precision using adhesive workholding technology.
• Seamless integration into existing quick-change receiver systems.

​For more technical specifications or to explore how Blue Photon’s Grip Pallets can transform your operations, contact us at JMI CNC & Automation. 

​Cross-hole deburring is a common process in industries like aerospace, automotive, and hydraulics. Burrs in cross-drilled holes can obstruct fluid flow, compromise dimensional tolerances, and pose safety risks. Traditional manual deburring methods are often labor-intensive and inconsistent, leading manufacturers to seek more efficient solutions.

The Flex-Hone® tool by Brush Research Manufacturing (BRM) offers an effective alternative. This flexible honing tool is designed to remove burrs from cross-drilled holes while simultaneously improving surface finish. Its self-centering and self-aligning features make it adaptable to various bore sizes, and it can be used with CNC machines, lathes, mills, and handheld drills. The tool's low-pressure, low-temperature abrading process ensures that the base metal's structure remains intact, preserving dimensional tolerances.​

For optimal results, it's recommended to use a slightly oversized Flex-Hone® tool relative to the bore diameter. This allows the tool to effectively reach and deburr the intersections of cross-drilled holes. It's also important to use a high-quality honing oil, such as BRM's Flex-Hone® oil which helps prevent tool loading and maintains cutting efficiency. A recommended practice is to rotate the tool clockwise during initial strokes, then reverse the spindle and continue in the opposite direction. This technique promotes a symmetrical deburring pattern and prevents burrs from folding back into the cross-hole.​

Implementing the Flex-Hone® tool in automated processes enhances consistency and reduces cycle times. By integrating this tool into existing CNC setups, shops can achieve high-quality deburring without the need for additional specialized equipment. This approach not only improves product quality but also contributes to cost savings and increased production efficiency.​

Check out this demonstration of the Flex-Hone® tool in action in the below video.

For more information or a demonstration in your shop contact us here at JMI CNC & Automation!