Zimmermann Portal Milling Machine Enables Precise Processing of Long Components

Zimmermann announces its FZG machine line, featuring a five-axis portal milling machine with a low rail gantry, called the FZU22, to its portfolio, which is designed to process long components. Accessible from the side, the FZG can enable simpler loading and unloading processes. With the FZG, the user can receive a stable system which provides the highest precision, even when processing large and long components, according to the company.

For the FZG line of machines, the engineers rely on the concept of the thermo-symmetrical design. Additionally, the engineers are re-designing its base structure.

Zimmerman says it can adjust this design for any custom application. The line is tailored to processing complete components, such as wing structures for the aviation industry, entire railway wagon side sections for the rail sector, tanks in the energy sector, exterior components for the aerospace industry as well as components for the defense industry.

The modular system from Zimmermann acts as the base structure of the FZG line. It offers many different length and height variants as well as equipment options, such as process cooling with minimum quantity, lubrication or an onboard movable vacuum dust extraction system for abrasive materials and plastics. An onboard movable tool changer is standard. The energy supply and covers are recessed into the floor.

The centrally guided Z-slide of the portal in double-bridge construction can stabilize the machine. This design aims to achieve high rigidity. The company says that, since there is not a possibility of one-sided temperature rise, accuracy can be increased, which makes the machine line suitable for high-precision applications. Additionally, the synergetic benefits of the FZG, due to the existing portfolio, can also have a positive impact on the profitability of the machine.

With the FZU22, aluminum, plastic, wood and other substrates can be processed, plus the machine can optimize the finishing of carbon fiber reinforced and other composite materials. The overhead gantry can provide precise production of models and molded parts. The standard machine includes a toolchanger for 24 tools and a CNC from Siemens or Heidenhain for full motion control and tracking. A five-axis milling head with 15-kW spindle is suitable for machining contours and tight pockets in large molds.

The FZU22 has a working range from 71-98″ in the X-axis, 118-138″ in the Y-axis and 49″ in the Z-axis. A feed rate of 2,756 ipm in the X- and Y-axes is standard, while the acceleration on the machine is max. 118-197 in/sec².  With a compact footprint of 11' × 15', the machine is designed to fit in the corner of any shop. ISO 230-2 accuracy is provided. A choice of milling heads is offered on the machine to suit a variety of applications. 

Optional equipment is offered on the FZU22, including touch probe, tool measuring system, work area cover, tool changer, chip conveyor, mist/dust extraction system, minimum quantity lubrication and a vacuum system. The machine also features an ultrasonic system for cutting aerospace insulation.