Twin-Turret Grinding in Multiple Configurations

The high-precision, universal Landis Twin Turret (LTT) grinding machine from Fives provides a common platform to support multiple machine configurations and processes.

Designed for superabrasives, the grinder is said to be particularly well-suited for aerospace, automotive, fuel system and optical jobs. It can be configured for processes including OD, ID and profile grinding; milling; polishing; hard and diamond turning; dicing; and in-situ metrology. Two available sizes, the LTT-100 and LTT-400, accommodate workpieces as large as 100 mm and 400 mm in diameter, respectively.

The grinder enables sub-micron position control. Two rotary axes mounted on a fixed center distance provide relative motion between the component and cutting tool, with the linear axis used to control the depth of cut and profile shape of the machined component. A combination of rotary and linear axes produces relative motion between tool and workpiece over a swept working area.

According to the company, coordinating two rotary axes and a short linear axis in a twin-turret design helps reduce problems with thermal stability and stiffness resulting from stacked linear axes. The twin-turret design is also said to enable a non-contact, labyrinth seal that helps prevent thermal distortion. Meanwhile, minimizing the number of bearing interfaces in the machining loop help maximize loop stiffness. Other features contributing to rigidity include two damped hydrostatic bearings and a soli

The twin-turret machine coordinates the two rotary axes and a short linear axis and enables a non-contacting labyrinth seal, designed to prevent thermal distortions. According to the company, the LTT’s design also minimizes the number of bearing interfaces in the machining loop in order to maximize machine loop stiffness. The machine employs two highly damped hydrostatic bearings, and the turrets are bolted together with a solid granite base plate.