Published 6/21/2021

Next Generation of Heller's Horizontal Machining Center

Heller launched the fourth generation of its H series four-axis horizontal machining center, which offers Industry 4.0 features and more customization.

Jenny Rush

Former Senior Managing Editor, Modern Machine Shop

The H series horizontal machining centers were launched in early 2021 in the sizes H 2000, H 4000, H 5000 and H 6000 (pictured here).

Heller has launched the fourth generation of its H series of four-axis horizontal machining centers. This generation is said to offer shorter idle times, increased milling performance, reduced service times and more flexible customization to users’ requirements. It offers a modular design and is said to provide high basic accuracy and surface finishes.

The updates series includes ergonomic features such as a touch-sensitive operating panel comprising key functions, low loading sill, short overhangs and the possibility of overhead loading. Integrated LED lighting at the setting stations and inside the work area are standard.

The machining centers are available in sizes H 2000, H 4000, H 5000 and H 6000, covering a stroke range from 630 mm to 1,000 mm. The first two models are designed for tools with HSK-A 63; the larger ones are for tools with HSK-A 100.

Two drive technology equipment packages are available: Power and Speed. The Power package has been designed for medium batch sizes and the machining of steel and difficult-to-machine materials. The Speed package is suited for high-volume machining of cast iron, aluminum and other light metals.

The Speed package includes AutoSet technology cycle for weight-dependent dynamic adjustment of the Z-axis and B-axis, designed to optimize axis dynamics in correlation to the load capacity. It also features reduced spindle run-up times, which vary between 1.4 and 2.6 seconds, depending on spindle size.

Heller spindles for the Gen4 machines are available in the known Power (PC), Speed-Cutting (SC) and now also in a Dynamic-Cutting (DC) version.

The in-house developed spindle for the Gen4 machines is available in three different versions: Power (PC), Speed (SC) and a new Dynamic Cutting (DC) version. All spindles are available with HSK-A 63 or HSK-A 100 tool holder. The DC units offer high torques and speeds, with the DC 63 i version providing 16,000 rpm and 180 Nm and the DC 100 i option delivering 12,000 rpm and 400 Nm. The U-axis of the Heller out-facing head allows users to perform contour turning operations on their components using motion tools.

This series is designed to offer reduced life-cycle costs. Speed-controlled pumps in the hydraulic unit and high-pressure portion of the coolant unit, smart switch-off strategies of energy consumers and the use of machine waste heat by optional water/water heat exchangers help ensure low energy consumption.

The main operating unit in panel design with double pivot arm is installed next to the work area door equipped with a large vision panel. The WorkCam work area camera allows the user to monitor processes throughout the work area on the 24” screen. The series also offers multi-touch technology as well as additional hardkeys and three potentiometers for the regulation of speed, feed and rapid traverse.

Users have access to Industry 4.0 features, including ‘Remote Diagnostic’ support; ‘Axis Condition’ and ‘Spindle Condition’ for predictive maintenance; ‘Tool Optimization’ for advanced data collection; ‘Energy Monitoring’; and ‘Damage Reduction’ for collision visualization.

All these HELLER4Industry features can be visualized directly at the machine, in the company network or online. Connectivity to MES and ERP systems has been expanded by OPC UA-based communication with the help of ‘umati.’ Users who select the Heller Services Interface (HSI) option get secure access to their production and maintenance data from any location in a browser-based solution.