After much anticipation ANCA launched the new FX Linear range of CNC tool grinders at the IMTS exhibition in Chicago on September 8. The launch attracted a wide range of media, industry members and customers. The range includes 3 models and represents not just a completely new design of machine and colour for ANCA, but also a significant number of new technologies – including cylindrical linear motors for the first time.

The models in the range include the FX3 Linear – an entry level model, FX5 Linear which replaces the existing FastGrind machine and the FX7 Linear which replaces existing GX7/RX7 machines.

As the CEO, Grant Anderson, launched the machines he advised those attending, ‘A core team of engineers under the leadership of Pat McCluskey, joint company owner, was assembled with the challenge to undertake this project with the added challenge of also designing several new technologies in machine drive automation. It is fitting for some of the team to complete the journey by unveiling the machines.’

He later added, ‘ANCA has been a silent observer of Linear Motors for many years and felt that the technology available was not ideally suited to the harsh environment produced within a grinding machine. It was this lack of available technology that prompted ANCA to design and develop our own range of cylindrical Linear Motors. ’

The FX Linear range is ideal for everything from light manufacturing, to regrinding and even full production. Its best performance and productivity range is for tools up to a diameter of 12mm (1/2”). It can grind tools up to a diameter of 200mm (7.78”).

Many new noteworthy features have been included in the range to make an operator’s life easier. These include a new touchscreen customisable with Windows that enables swipe and multi-touch, handheld pendant for easier set-up and an easy to access front loader door.

The FX Linear is a compact machine with a large working envelope. The grinding wheel is positioned on the C-axis centreline which together with the compact design reduces the effects of temperature influence on machine elements. This assists in the thermal stability and rigidity of the machine.

The FX machine range includes new generation RN33 software, latest generation AMD5x control system and high performance CNC. The use of EtherCAT as a machine fieldbus allows both high performance and high reliability through use of Ethernet technology.

As Greg Perry, International Marketing Manager, advised, ‘The FX Linear machine is compact and rigid by design. Our aim has been to deliver customers with a machine that has high levels of accuracy and performance. We have added a number of new technologies to achieve this and the results have demonstrated that the profile accuracy, transition and surface finish it delivers on tools is unprecedented.’

The FX Linear machines use ANCA LinX Linear Motors for accurate axis motion (X & Y axes). These have been designed for a lifetime of operation in harsh grinding environments. Their design is fully sealed to IP67 and impervious to the effects of grinding contamination. By design, no additional load is placed on the machine guidance due to magnetic attraction. With no mechanical moving parts there is no loss of machine accuracy over time due to wear. Higher axis speed and acceleration provides reduced cycle times, resulting in productivity increases for tool manufacturers. High levels of machine precision and performance are achieved, enabling superior tool accuracy and surface finish.

The FX3 Linear is an entry-level machine for tool manufacturers looking for an affordable first step into CNC tool grinding, or an economical, good quality, basic machine. Whatever your needs this machine provides the kind of technology and rigid accuracy not usually available at this price. If you don’t need automation, then the FX3 Linear, with its 9.5kW wheel spindle which provides ample power to cover a wide range of applications, is the tool grinder for you. It offers the same flexible tool design software and machine quality that are found in all ANCA machines.

If you need automation and the versatility of more options, such as the MicroPlus, then the FX5 Linear will suit your needs. It has a spindle power of 9.5kW and also has an automatic 2-wheel changer for an increased range of wheels and tool types. Together with optional automatic headstock clamping and the FastLoad-FX compact loader it can provide unmanned operation and the flexibility to easily handle small and mixed batches of tools.

For those that require the increased flexibility of more spindle power, or the increased automation capacity that a robot can provide, the FX7 Linear is the machine that you are looking for. It is the premium tool grinder in the FX range and provides exceptional value for money. The more powerful 19kW wheel spindle provides high levels of speed and productivity to tackle a wider range of tools, making it perfect for manufacturing and resharpening. The FX7 Linear also has high performance servo-drives for quicker machine movements and reduced cycle times. The FX7 Linear offers an automatic headstock as standard and a wide range of options for high productivity.

ANCA
31129 Century Drive
Wixom, MI 48393
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