Machine eliminates hard-wired connections

Hardwired connection cables and backside part work are often problem areas for shops using multispindle automatics. Having to run a machine in reverse to unwind hardconnection cables that drive each spindle motor limits a shop to a minimum complete revolution, while planning and machining backside work is both timeconsuming and difficult. As a remedy for these machine drawbacks, Schutte offers its A36 PC CNC eightspindle automatic.

The machine has no hardwired connection cables for driving each spindle motor. Instead, electronic connections do the work and provide complete uninterrupted revolutions without the downtime associated with unwinding.

An AC maindrive motor powers the machines work spindles via a central shaft. As an option, shops can get all independently driven work spindles. For this, an auxiliary motor, with rotary encoders signaling the work spindles actual position to the control system, powers spindles. This setup facilitates independent spindle speeds and constant cutting speeds, as well as spindle stops, angular positioning, and Caxis applications.

A rotary drive (tool drive) powers either independently, via an AC servomotor with full Caxis functions, or through gear changes each of the machines eight endworking slides and eight cross slides.

For rearside machining, the A36 PCs auxiliary cross slides in spindle positions 7+8 or 3+4 can sport linear turrets that accommodate up to three stationary or live tools. This means shops can use six (twice three) tools for rearside machining.

This, in conjunction with two CNC pickoff attachments in adjoining spindle positions, makes for extensive rearside machining in short cycle times. Using the CNC eightspindle auto as a double fourspindle machine provides four CNC pickoff spindles with corresponding linear turrets and a total of 12 tools in spindle positions 7+8 and 3+4.

Schutte USA LLC
Jackson, Mich.
http://www.schuttemsa.com
Circle 72