New addition to family of true 5-axis simultaneous high-speed machines
Lincolnshire, Illinois, February 13, 2012 – To build on the success of its compact 5-axis MIKRON HSM 400U LP high-speed milling center, GF AgieCharmilles is upping the ante with a larger-size machine platform called the MIKRON HSM 600U LP, creating a family of linear motor full 5-axis simultaneous machining solutions that set a benchmark for speed.
GF AgieCharmilles developed the “U” version of its MIKRON HSM LP (linear performance) milling centers to machine workpieces in a true 5-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. Furthermore, the machine’s 36,000-RPM vector spindle also assists in providing excellent surface finish and part detail, while significantly reducing machining time for semi-finishing and finishing operations.
With 31.49” X-axis and 23.62” Y-axis travels, 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 center is also ideal for prototype production, die making and fully automated, low-volume series production where accuracy and surface finish are critical. The HSM 600U LP’s superior 32.81 ft/sec2 acceleration enables 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; thereby 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 HSM 600U LP employs a sophisticated thermal management system. Each of the linear axes as well as the round-swivel unit features a cooling unit to systematically 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). The ITM records the complete tool tip up to a diameter of 0.47” on image sensors. Special software cleans and measures the recorded tool geometry for repeatability in the micrometer range.
The HSM 600U LP also achieves peak performance through its Operator Support System (OSS) smart machine module. The OSS 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.
Lastly, the HSM 600U LP possesses the capability for 24/7 unattended machining using its optional MIKRON pallet magazines with System 3R and Erowa interfaces. These fully integrated pallet magazines can be loaded without interrupting cutting operations already in progress.
About GF AgieCharmilles
GF AgieCharmilles is the North American leading supplier of laser ablation center, wire EDM, CNC and manual diesinking systems and high speed/high performance 3- and 5-axis milling machines. For more information on the company’s products and services, contact Gisbert Ledvon, GF AgieCharmilles, 560 Bond St., Lincolnshire, IL 60069-4224, Tel: 1-800-CTC-1EDM. Gisbert.Ledvon@us.gfac.com, Fax: 847-913-5340, or visit http://www.gfac.com/us.
