HMC Maintains Rigidity for High Speed Machining Applications

Available from Absolute Machine Tools, the Tongtai HA-500II horizontal machining center features a spindle with a built-in high-torque motor. The spindle’s 75-mm-diameter ceramic bearings and grease lubrication help maintain rigidity during high speed machining. Recyclable coolant on the exterior of the bearings and compressed air in the motor help to control the temperature and maintain stable thermal distortion in the spindle.

The machining center’s three-axis servo features FANUC’s low-inertia servomotors and solid couplings, which provide high-torque output for heavy-duty cutting with rapid feed rates ranging to 2,362 ipm. This system is said to improve the acceleration and deceleration speed of the feeding axes for decreased idle time. Roller-type linear guideways in the feeding axes increase rigidity, and anti-dust gaskets on the slider blocks help prevent metal chips from entering. The standard 1-degree B axis uses an indexing device for positioning, and a 0.001-degree B axis is also available. The machine features a cam-type automatic toolchanger for increased stability. According to the company, the tool-to-tool time is 1.5 sec. and chip-to-chip time is 3 sec.

The machine’s hydraulic and cooling system equipment is stored on the floor to limit the influence of thermal fluctuation and vibration. Centralized air pressure and lubrication system management eases daily maintenance. The user-friendly interface includes a tool management system, maintenance map and Tongtai’s integrated monitoring system.