Compact Multigrind ® CU All-Rounder for Manufacturing Precision Tools and Components
HAAS Schleifmaschinen GmbH in Trossingen, Germany manufactures universal grinding machines which offer significant versatility for full-sequence production of complex, precision tools and workpieces. At IMTS 2016, US subsidiary HAAS Multigrind LLC will present its new, compact all-rounder that completes its range of grinding machines: the Multigrind ® CU.
In grinding technology, the trend is toward full-sequence machining; especially for complex workpieces that need to be completed on versatile grinding machines. Combining multiple operations into one machine cycle saves on transport and warehousing cost. It also results in higher overall precision. High quality milling tools, indexable inserts and step drills are all examples.
Universal grinding machines required for producing tools like these are the trademarks of HAAS Schleifmaschinen GmbH in Trossingen at the edge of the Black Forest. The company supplies machines with customized configurations, including a detailed processing strategy with all the components required – from the programming, tool changer and dressing units to fully automated, part-handling systems.
At IMTS 2016, HAAS will present its latest development: the Multigrind® CU, destined to replace the AF series due to its long list of productive features packed into a small footprint. The smallest machine in the HAAS product line, the new Multigrind® CU completes the series of machines offered by the grinding experts from Trossingen.
While the largest machine in the HAAS series, Multigrind ® CB, can accommodate grinding wheels with diameters of up to 300 mm [12”] and process workpieces with diameters of 340 mm to 500 mm [20”], the medium-sized HAAS machine, Multigrind ® CA, was engineered for grinding wheels of up to 250 mm [10”] and workpieces of up to 260 mm [10.25”]. Multigrind ® CU accommodates wheels of up to 225 mm [9”] and workpieces of up to 180 mm [7”].
When it comes to functionality and universal applications, the compact space-saver is right up there with its big sisters. The machine concept engineered down to the last detail follows the same strategy as the other HAAS machine types: delivering a universal grinding machine for full-sequence machining. In the case of the Multigrind® CU, HAAS was guided by companies’ need for the most compact machines possible.
CU takes up half the space of its predecessor
The new CU’s width is 50 mm less than its predecessor, the AF machine. Since the coolant system and its two large tanks are integrated into the machine bed, the new model requires less than half the space of the old AF. The robot function was external to the machine in the past, but the HAAS developers have successfully integrated it into the CU. A masterful solution to customers’ need for compactness and automation.
The operation, maintenance and servicing concept is just as sophisticated. There are no operator or service access points on the sides of the machine. Consequently, They CU machines can be “stacked” side-by- side to save significant floor space. The machine is loaded, unloaded and programmed at the front, and the back is reserved for maintenance. Despite its small space, the CU still has a tool changer with 9 to 14 positions, depending on the tool size. This means three times more capacity than its predecessor. The tool changer is loaded at the front.
The compact design also required a new axis concept, so the developers came up with a special solution. “At HAAS, we don’t use cheap, low quality components,” says Thomas Bader, explaining the HAAS philosophy. “Rather, we develop intelligent concepts that allow us to save on axes by means of a multiple axis configuration without any negative impact on performance or functionality, for example,” he added.
The new machine’s axis arrangement follows the classical gantry principle, in which the X-, Y- and Z-axes are positioned at the top. The Y-axis runs along the side of the machine bed. Both the A-axis for rotating the workpiece and the machine table are attached to the C-axis. The C-axis also drives the circular tool magazine, which is installed under the table. The gripper, which can load the machine from four integrated pallets, is installed on the Z-axis so that it can travel in the X, Y and Z directions without the extra cost and floor space of a robot or any additional axes.
This makes the new Multigrind® CU series as universally applicable as the two series of larger machines. Due to its size and capacity, it is especially suitable for manufacturing indexable inserts, inserts, drills and other metal-working tools. Other applications that require the high precision full-sequence machining of smaller workpieces with complex geometries in only one setting are also possible.
At IMTS 2016, the HAAS booth in the North Building, Booth N-7514 will feature a Multigrind® CU and a Multigrind® CB model. Both will demonstrate how universally applicable grinding centers can contribute to boosting customer performance.
About HAAS Schleifmaschinen GmbH and HAAS Multigrind LLC
HAAS Schleifmaschinen GmbH, headquartered in Trossingen, Germany, is an international system supplier for complex grinding jobs for the tool manufacturing, medical engineering, and aerospace industries. The mechanical engineering firm specializes in tool grinding centers for complex shapes. The company produces three types of machines, each in a wide variety of different variations: the MULTIGRIND® CU, CA, and CB systems. Haas grinding centers are used to produce rotary and profile tools, gear cutting and cold forming tools, and medical instruments and implants. HAAS Schleifmaschinen GmbH is the world leader in manufacturing machines for implant producers. HAAS Multigrind LLC is its US subsidiary in Warsaw, Indiana.
For more information, visit www.multigrind.com.
