Then, what exactly are the various components of a CNC milling machine or a machining center? The graphic below depicts a breakdown of the main components of the system.
When designing automation equipment that is not in the standard configuration consider.
Frame No. 1
The frame is the primary structural component of the milling machine, and it is responsible for providing stability and rigidity to the machine. It is often delivered with a base and one or more detachable columns.
The machine headstock, on which the main spindle is mounted, is a critical component of the frame's construction. Despite its importance, the headstock is frequently disregarded. The presence of vibrations and chattering during the machining operation might be caused by a non-rigid headstock that fails to offer stability and support to the spindle during the operation. Consequently, machining mistakes and a shortened tool life are possible consequences of this situation.
Spindle No. 2
The spindle of a CNC milling machine can be thought of as the "heart" of the machine. It is typically comprised of a rotating assembly and a tapered part where tool holders can be mounted on the machine. The shaft of the spindle is often where the tool is mounted, which is commonly done through the use of a tool holder.
The spindle is rotated by means of a motor with a variety of different transmission levels.
Various types of lubrication are employed to keep your spindle in good working order over an extended period of time. Grease lubrications (which are not suitable for long periods of high speed operation), air-oil lubrications (which are sufficient for longer cycle runs at higher speeds), and the Hwacheon Oil-Jet-Lubrication (which is suitable for all conditions – including extreme, long, and high speed applications) are examples of such lubrications.
The spindle can be positioned either vertically or horizontally, depending on the type of machine being used.
Axes No. 3
CNC milling machines typically include three axes: X, Y, and Z, as well as an additional rotational axis, such as C, A, or B. (subject to configuration). These can be programmed in the CNC controller using the g-code command language.
#4 Column/s of text
It is possible to have single columns (e.g., travelling column HiRex 4000 or also C-frame like HiT 400 / 360; VESTA line including "B"; SIRIUS-650 / 850 / 1050) or double columns (e.g., SIRIUS 1250 / 2500 / L1 / L2) on the CNC machining center. This is dependent on the level of intricacy required for the machining task....
#5 CNC Control Panel (CNC Control Panel)
As the name implies, this is the machine tool's primary "nervous system." Electronics are contained within this unit, which aids in the control of the various cutting movements through the use of programming functions. The control panel is equipped with a CNC monitor and programming buttons, via which data and codes can be entered. It is common for it to also include a manual function. The control panel should be easily accessible and within reach of the operator in order to facilitate machine operation.
#6 Tool / Tool Changing Machines (Automatic Tool Changer or ATC)
These are either fixed directly to the column or are mounted independently to the machine. When larger tool changers with 40 to 300 different tools are required, the latter is favored over the former. Not only does this help you save time and effort, but it also helps your operators avoid excessive vibrations while they are in the process of working.
Tool Holders (number 7)
These are available in a variety of sizes, systems, and configurations for a variety of applications. Tool holders are available in conventional sizes ranging from BT 30 to BT 40 and BT 50. (BT refers to the taper angle of the cone on the holder).
BBT variants, as well as the HSK System, are recommended for applications requiring stronger rigidity and balanced quick rotations.
It is an improved version of the normal BT system that provides two contact points between the tool holder and the spindle, rather than one. This results in stronger connections and bonding, as well as greatly reduced vibrations, thanks to the tool holders being balanced to class Q 2.5. This not only enhances the machining capabilities and outcomes of your machine tool, but it also delivers superior surfaces to your component or mold, increases the life of your tool, and, in the long run, saves you money on spindle replacements because the bearings will last longer.
What about the HSK System, do you think? It is lighter (which is advantageous for high-speed machining), shorter (which is advantageous for faster tool change), and stronger than the BT system (a HSK-A63 holder is 2.5 times stronger than a BT 50 holder). Additionally, the HSK System provides superb balance (Class Q 2.5). In addition to heavy-duty operations, heavy cuts, and highly high-speed activities at the same time are made possible by the strong and powerful clamping from the inside to the outside of the tool holder and the spindle's bonding.
Both the BBT and HSK versions offer significantly stiffer and more rigid bonding between the tool holder and spindle as these systems come with double contact clamping (i.e. between the caper / cone and front spindle nose surface).
Table No. 8
The table provides a stable foundation on which to clamp the work piece directly, and it can also be used to mount fixtures or vices to hold the item in position while the work is being done. T-slots are used on the majority of the tables to allow for simple clamping of vices, fixtures, and parts.
With the use of horizontal CNC milling machines, pallets with tap-holes can also be produced. It is possible to move different work components to be machined with greater freedom using these. Magnets are also becoming increasingly popular for clamping since they are simple, quick, and secure. These should ideally be integrated into the machine's table in order to eliminate any loss of Z-axis height during operation.
Tank for Coolant No. 9
The majority of CNC machining centers are equipped with a coolant tank to aid in the delivery of coolant to the cutting surface or the spindle with tool during the machining operation. This contributes to the overall life-span of the machine and its components. In addition to this, the coolant will remove the heat generated by the machining operation, allowing temperatures to remain below acceptable limits.
Here, the maxim "the more, the better" applies in order to maintain a sufficient supply of coolant for cutting operations. More coolant aids machine operators in avoiding the heating up of coolant during operation.
For deeper drilling operations (deeper than 4 times diameter) or for machining deeper cavities in mould and die applications, the CTS system, also known as a Coolant Through Spindle, is typically used. The standard coolant pressure should be 30 bar, with options for higher coolant pressures up to 70 bar. Even greater coolant pressures would only be required in extremely particular situations.