This work presents some of researches performed by the authors on execution of plastic parts required for repair works specific to certain machines and plants. Authors focused especially on the repair and reconditioning of certain assemblies which include various machine parts: special spacers, machine-tools guides and toothed gears. Methods shown herein are very simple, accessible even to small workshop and they do not require special equipment, thereby involving minimal expenses. The use of simple programs allow fast and low-cost execution of parts with an accurately determined geometry.

In this paper, the authors show a part of research works performed on the use of 3D scanners and 3D printers to execute the molds required for the cast of parts with complex surfaces. 3D scanning allows copying of certain surfaces in our environment, based on existing models. The finished parts may also be executed from metals that are relatively easy to cast (bronze, aluminum etc.). In order to execute the molds destined for the casting, various pieces may be scanned, with a volume size in the range of [150x150x200 mm3 ÷ 500x500x2000 mm3]. Plastic model printing is performed depending on the capacity of the 3D printer used. This paper shows the results achieved with general-purpose scanner and printer, valued at affordable prices.

In this paper, the authors show a part of research works performed on the use of 3D scanners and 3D printers to execute plastic parts with complex surfaces. 3D scanning allows copying of certain surfaces in our environment, based on existing models. Scanned models may represent various objects, made of a wide range of materials: metals, ceramics, fabrics, plastics, leather, organic materials etc. [1]. This paper shows the results achieved using a scanner and a common and affordable - low-price - printer. 3D scanners and printers allow execution of clones of certain parts with irregular surfaces.

In this paper, the authors present some of the theoretical and experimental researches conducted in recent years in the field of large masses shifted vertically. The paper starts with a technical-economical comparative analysis of the hydraulic and mechanical balancing. The following are the most commonly used systems of hydraulic balancing for modern machine-tools, the CNC ones especially. Finally the paper presents some of the experimental achievements materialized in hydraulic balancing units for machine-tools.

In this paper, authors show a cost-saving method of replacing variable flow pumps with pressure regulator within hydraulic balancing systems for heavy machine-tools, with simple, constant flow pumps. The system proposed is relevant for heavy machine-tools where large loads need balancing: cross beams, slides, enclosures, etc. The basic hydraulic schematics, calculation method and results of certain simulations are displayed here. A characteristic of these systems is the use of routine hydraulic equipment, thus providing low costs. Hydraulic equipment used in such balancing systems may successfully replace complex and expensive equipment used in feeding / positioning kinematic chains within CNC heavy machine-tools, like: Horizontal Boring and Milling Machines (HBM), Vertical Lathes (VL) and Gantry Machines.