C 400

Hermle Machine Co.'s latest machining center incorporates the design features that have defined the finest in high precision 5-axis machining in a compact, affordable package. Incorporating features common to the C series platform, including a mineral-cast base, Hermle's modified gantry design with all linear axes drives above and outside the working area, and rotating table mounted on a rigid trunion mechanism, the C 400 delivers excellent vibration dampening, a generous and easily accessible working area, and a space-saving pick-up magazine within a minimal footprint.

The working area is a generous 850-700-500mm in the X, Y and Z axes, respectively. The 15,000/18,000 rpm main spindle is powered by a 20 kW drive delivering up to 180 Nm of torque. The slim spindle housing design allows machining of deeper cavities with shorter tools. Six displacement sleeves offer a patented collision protection, and the two-piece spindle design allows for fast service access.

The pick-up tool changer features 38 positions (87 positions optional with the extended tool magazine) and a chip-to-chip time of approximately 6.0 seconds. The control is the Heidenhain iTNC530. The rigid two-sided trunion design allows for a table load capacity of up to 2,000 kg, and a very effective chip control. The swiveling A-axis and rotary C-axis kinematics allow for much more effective and precise machining strategies, even for the most complex parts. The NC controlled rotary table provides a clamping surface of 650x540mm diameter, and a swivel range of +91 degrees/-139 degrees. An optional rigid clamping table provides a surface of 1070x700mm with a maximum load of 2,000 kg. In addition to the easily accessible work area, ergonomic features include a movable control panel accessible for both operations and tool loading, and an easy-to-load tool magazine.

On announcing the introduction of the C 400 to the North American market, Hermle president Robert Komljenovic commented, "Thanks to Hermle's pioneering efforts, 5-axis machining is rapidly becoming the industry standard. Our 5-axis experience in design, manufacturing, and in assisting customers in thousands of applications have enabled us to define the ideal machine for most part sizes. The compact size of the C 400, its ease of installation, and user friendliness make it the ideal choice for manufacturers ranging from small shops to major production facilities. As our many existing customers have discovered, when it comes to complex part manufacturing, there is no substitute for the strength, precision and quality of a Hermle product. The C 400 product makes those advantages available to a new generation of users."