Affolter Gear Hobbing Machine Features Multiple Configurations

Affolter Group, a manufacturer of high-precision gear hobbing solutions, has launched the AF160 eight-axis CNC gear hobbing machine, which features three gear cutting configurations.

With an optional quick-change system, machine operators can switch from one configuration to the next in only 30 minutes. In configuration I, both the C axis and the C' prime axis are equipped with driven spindles. This set up leads to an increased cutting quality, more torque and more rigidity, and it offers the A-axis ±50-degree swing. The configuration is said to be ideal for the production of spur, helical, bevel, crowned and face gears, according to the company.

A tailstock on the C-axis and a spindle on C' prime — configuration II — provides the operator more flexibility. The A-axis can move from -50 degrees to +115 degrees, making worm milling possible. This configuration can also be used for all gear types mentioned above. In configuration III, the C-axis remains empty, and the C'-prime axis is equipped with a driven spindle.

The AF72 part loader has been specifically designed for the AF160. With its double gripper system for parallel loading and unloading and a telescopic arm, different configurations — depending on the volume, product and application — can be chosen for an easy and efficient loading of the parts. The AF72 can be equipped with up to five feeding rails, enabling to preload more parts and let the machine work autonomously for more than 24 hours, with a proper configuration.

According to the company, the AF160 is configurable for any application. Hobbing options include skiving by sensor detection, integrating the deburring process into the gear production with the addition of the AF54 deburring unit, as well as part orientation and part presence control. Different clamping systems, customizable coolant systems and chip extraction conveyors provide added versatility.