G550 Horizontal Machining Center

GROB Systems Inc., Machine Tool Division has introduced its G550 high-precision horizontal machining center, which has unique features and an innovative design allowing it to machine parts in 5-axes using less motions, with reportedly twice the rigidity of conventional quill feed machines. It provides customers with the machining technology to manufacture workpieces made with a wide variety of materials from aluminum and plastics to hardened steels in tough metal removing environments, and to do it effectively and economically. Its high level of flexibility meets all requirements for 5-sided machining, making multi-angled holes and surfaces, forms and profiles of precision end products in small and medium batches as well as high-volume production.

The machine's unique design features a spindle body module that is mounted on a robust slide that rides on roller bearings, feeding the entire spindle drive module front to back for the Z-axis travel. A second slide mechanism moves the module in the X-axis. Optimal tool rigidity and minimal tool vibration is achieved by feeding the spindle module along these sturdy guideway surfaces so the system maintains a consistent tool/spindle overhang from its support point with the front bearing establishing 0.00023" (0.006mm) position tolerance and 0.00015" (0.004mm) positional variation. The standard HSK-A63 spindle drive provides tooling speeds of up to 12,000 RPM, with four optional HSK-63drives providing 10,000,16,000 18,000 and 30,000 RPM. HSK-A100 spindles are also offered with speeds of 9,000 and 10,000 RPM.

Regardless of the work piece size, the maximum [HSK-A100] tool length of 19.68" (500mm) can always be loaded in the spindle, including the use of gun drills. Working travels are 31.5" (800mm) in the X axis, 37.5" (950mm) in the Y axis and 40" (1020mm) in the Z axis depending on part requirements. Incremental length glass scales are provided on all linear axes, which utilize blow offs to keep them free of any contaminants.

Another unique feature incorporates the machine's table which moves in the Y, A and B axes, achieving full 5-axis machining by maneuvering the workpiece. The machine's three linear and two rotary axes allow five-side machining as well as 5-axis simultaneous interpolation. The table's maximum axis rotation is 240 degrees in the A-axis and 360 degrees in the B-axis. Additionally this feature allows workpieces to be machined upside down providing optimal chip flow while keeping them off the work surfaces. The chip conveyor is located directly under the work piece with chips being flushed from overhead. Coolant is recycled within the machine with an internal paper filter system. Optional high-pressure coolant packages are available. The G550 adapts to both coolant-reliant operations and MQL machining.

The machine's tool magazine is standard equipped with HSK tool holders for up to 2 X 60 HSK-A63 and 2 X 30 HSK-A100 pockets. Siemens 840D sl or Heidenhain iTNC 530 controls are available. Tool coding, electromechanical tool breakage detection, laser tool monitoring, tool cleaning device and measuring gage are available options. Operator ergonomics include easy access through a large work area door, large viewing window with working area at eye level, crane loading access through machine roof and excellent front and side access for part loading. To help maintain optimal accuracies, the Z axis ball screw drive and motorized spindle are all chilled. In addition, the electrical cabinet is air conditioned.