To build on the success of its compact five axis Mikron HSM 400U LP high speed milling centre, GF AgieCharmilles is upping the ante with a larger sized machine platform called the the Mikron HSM 600U LP, creating a family of linear motor full five axis simultaneous machining solutions that set a benchmark for speed, claims the company.
GF AgieCharmilles developed the “U” version of its Mikron HSM LP (linear performance) milling centres to machine workpieces in a true five axis simultaneous high speed fashion via linear motor technology in the main machine axes and optimized direct drive motors for the B and C axes, resulting in high precision and superior part surface finishes. The machine’s 36,000 rpm vector spindle assists in providing excellent surface finish and part detail, while significantly reducing machining time for semi-finishing and finishing operations.
With 31.49 in. X axis and 23.62 in. Y axis travels (800 mm and 676 mm respectively), the HSM 600U LP accommodates larger workpieces and brings added value to a wide range of applications, including hard metal machining, through its rigid and robust design. The machine’s portal and base are made of polymer granite, which provides excellent vibration damping that is approximately 10 times greater than cast iron. Such damping is essential when working with high feedrates and high acceleration. Additionally, the worktable, X, Y- and Z axis slides are made of high strength cast iron and reinforced by longitudinal ribs and wide sections.
The milling centre is also ideal for prototype production, die making and fully automated, low volume series production where accuracy and surface finish are critical. It features 32.81 ft/sec2 acceleration enabling it to reach high programmed feedrates of 196 ft/min in the simultaneous operation of serial production as well as achieve unbeatable precision on high end molds, reducing the number of machines necessary to perform jobs precisely, quickly and cost effectively.
Because high levels of heat develop in drive groups over prolonged periods of high axis feedrates, the machine employs a sophisticated thermal management system. Each of the linear axes as well as the round swivel unit feature a cooling unit to draw the heat out of the machine, creating geometric stability and high repeatability of movement guidance.
To avoid inconsistent loading of small tools and 3D geometry errors due to the inaccurate measurement of those tools, the HSM 600U LP features Intelligent Tool Measurement (ITM), that records the complete tool tip up to a diameter of 0.47 in. on image sensors. Special software cleans and measures the recorded tool geometry for repeatability in the micrometer range.
The Operator Support System (OSS) smart machine module gives the machine operator ultimate control in influencing the unit production costs of the workpiece. Additionally, the operator can overwrite the drive and control parameters to focus on a particular task, including highly productive speed management, outstanding surface quality or true-to- contour tracking.
The machine 24/7 for unattended machining using an optional pallet magazines with System 3R and Erowa interfaces. These fully integrated pallet magazines can be loaded without interrupting cutting operations already in progress.
