3 + 2 = Improved Productivity
By Cliff Barber This article sets out to highlight the benefits of 5-a...
5-axis metalcutting and additive manufacturing
German machine tool manufacturer, Hermle, is integrating additive manu...
Larger, top quality machining centre has entry-level price
The German manufacturer of 3- to 5-axis machining centres, Hermle, has expanded its Performance Line machine series with the addition of the C 650 to the existing C 250 and C 400 models. They sit alongside the company’s core machine range comprising six machines from C 12 to C 62.
Sales and service agent in the UK and Ireland, Gosport-based Kingsbury, says that there have been no compromises in the build quality of the C 650 machining centre or indeed its smaller counterparts. The only limitation is that they are available with fewer options, which is the reason for their economical price.
The work envelope of the C 650 is defined by X,Y and Z axis travels of 1,050, 900 and 600 mm, positioning it in capacity between the C 42 and C 52. Every Hermle machine shares the same fundamental attributes including a modified gantry design, mineral cast bed and an integrated, trunnion-mounted rotary table for the fourth and fifth CNC axes, if specified. All these features contribute to rigidity, low vibration and high machining accuracy.
In the 3-axis version, the rigid table can accept workpieces weighing 3,000 kg, making it ideal for tool and mould making. Alternatively, precision machining of components up to 900 mm in diameter by 600 mm tall and weighing 1,500 kg is possible on the ± 115-degree swivelling rotary table of the 5-axis version. Minimal idle times result from 6 m/s2 acceleration to 35 m/min rapid traverse in all axes.
Spindle options are 15,000 or 18,000 rpm and both are equipped with Hermle’s patented collision protection system. In the event of impact in the Z-axis direction, the energy is absorbed by six displacement sleeves to minimise and often prevent spindle damage.
The integral magazine for 42 tools can be expanded by 50 or 88 additional pockets. Various other options include enhanced cooling and chip management, extractors, as well as tool breakage monitoring and measurement, touch probes and precision packages.
Standard CNC system is Heidenhain’s TNC 640, which offers the full programming capability of this proven, high-end control. The GUI has a large, full colour, 19″ TFT flat panel monitor and the control can be swivelled to the magazine loading station so that the operator can enter tool data directly into the control.
Various Hermle digital packages such as information monitoring software and an automation control system can be supplied as options. For servicing, the Hermle maintenance diagnosis system is available for continuous monitoring of the machine’s condition, facilitating rapid diagnostics and maintenance planning.
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