Hard metal machining… it’s not rocket science
By Simon Dutton The machining of aerospace materials poses many challe...
German manufacturer Zimmermann has introduced a new horizontal-spindle machining centre (HMC) for the efficient production of structural components in the aerospace industry.
The FZH400 is F Zimmermann’s first horizontal machining centre to join their portfolio of gantry-type vertical-spindle machines. The FZH400 boasts an integrated, expandable, patented pallet change system that automatically leads the component into the vertical plane for machining.
The new machining centre uses gravity to efficiently remove volumes of aluminium swarf generated from solid billets by the 100kW spindle. The material has been shown to be removed at rates of 13 litres per minute. This can be partially attributed to linear axis acceleration at 6m/s2 and rapid feed rates up to 60m/min in the X-axis, 40m/min in the Y and Z.
The horizontal-spindle head has three CNC axes, therefore offering extra versatility with 2-axis heads for executing complex programs. Movement of ± 110 degrees in the A-axis, ± 225 degrees in the C-axis and the increase of ± 14 degrees in the B-axis removes the risk of singularity errors in cutter paths, without the need for avoidance algorithms. This means high productivity, exceptional surface finish and dimensional accuracy is maintained.
The robust, water-cooled travelling column is another key patented feature. This avoids the usual drawback of spindle deviation as the slide extends in the Z-axis. The machining centre is compact and floor mounted so it doesn’t require a special foundation and is quick to install and commission.
F Zimmermann has created a separate website for the FZH400 – www.fzh400.com/en – which features animations to demonstrate construction and operation.
This new HMC, along with Zimmermann’s complete catalogue, is available in the UK, Ireland and the Middle East through Kingsbury.
By Simon Dutton The machining of aerospace materials poses many challe...