Top quality machining centre has entry-level price

Hermle AG, a prominent German manufacturer of high precision, 3 to 5-axis machining centres, has added the C 250 to the C 400 model that it launched in 2012. In the process, it has started to create a new machine series that sits alongside the manufacturer’s core range, which comprises six models from C 12 to C 62.

Sales and service agent in the UK and Ireland, Gosport-based Kingsbury says that here have been no compromises in the build quality of the C 250 machining centre or indeed its larger counterpart. The only limitation is that they are available with fewer options, which is the reason for their economical price.

The working envelope of the C 250 is defined by X,Y,Z axis travels of 600, 550 and 450 mm, positioning it in capacity between the C 22 and C 32. 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 up to 1,100 kg, while precision machining of components up to 450 mm in diameter by 355 mm tall and weighing 300 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 rapids in all axes.

Spindle options are 15,000 or 18,000 rpm (20 kW / 180 Nm) 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 30 tools can be expanded by 50 or 88 additional pockets. Various other options include enhanced cooling and chip management as well as tool breakage monitoring and measurement.

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 height-adjustable for improved ergonomics. Hermle macros are built in to provide the operator with additional support for complex milling.

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