A new tool and process monitoring system from Marposs is designed to provide continuous monitoring of metalworking processes through several different types of sensors that enable control of various machine functions, thus allowing cycle optimization as well a reduction of scrap and machine downtime. According to the company’s press release, five products are utilized for monitoring. A vibration monitor analyzes vibrations in rotating devices, such as machine tool spindles, to permit the highest possible tool revolutions. A force monitor is included for the direct and reliable identification and control of the strain and forces acting on the tool to optimize the cutting parameters and production cycles. A power monitor exists for controlling the variations in the cutting process through continuous and absolute surveillance of power absorbed by the machine’s axis or spindles. A displacement monitor measures distances in high resolution using wear-free, non-contact sensors for applications such as automatic compensation for thermal drift. Temperature monitors sense temperatures in critical machine tool sub-systems such as near-moving components, like axes, gears and spindles.