Alfing Introduces Light Metal Parts Machining Concept

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At IMTS Booth A-8462, Alfing will premier its new AL-series multi-spindle five-axis machining center concept designed especially for machining complex, light metal parts in medium to high volumes. The AL 204 is the leading machine in the series, with four individually driven box spindles arranged for HSK 63 tooling with separate anti-friction ways.

The major new production advantage to the series permits higher Z-axis accuracy in a multi-spindle machine than has been possible previously, thanks to Alfingís new patented individual spindle compensation. In addition, the placement of the individual spindles (alternately guided from top and bottom) occupies only half the space required by a traditional four-spindle machine.

The Alfing AL series provides a fully CNC controlled five-axis process with an overall working range of X 200mm, Z 400mm, Y 450mm. A multi-axis swiveling trunnion system reduces workpiece changeover time to about 2.0 sec. The D and A axes of this swiveling trunnion quickly bring workpieces into position. Optionally, the A axes can be equipped with up to four B-axes each for machining parts complete in a single set-up. All rotating axes are equipped with torque drives, resulting in long term accuracy, reduced downtime, and elimination of excessive wear.

The modular design of the AL series allows for several machine variations to be configured with similar components. The series includes versions of two-, three-, and four-spindle machining centers with individually driven box spindles as well as the standard models with fixed center heads and only one drive in the Z axis.

Depending on customer requirements, all machine models can be equipped with either linear motors or ball screw drives. While the super-fast linear machines achieve speed rates of up to 180 m/min, and accelerations of up to 20 m/s2, the maximum speed with conventional drive technology is at 90 m/min and 10 m/s2 respectively. With synchronous motor spindles providing a maximum drive capacity of 58 kW and a max torque of 70 Nm, these new machines are well suited to machining a wide variety of light metal parts.

Based on an average use of 30 (HSK 63) tools per spindle, the AL 204 will be equipped with 120-slot chain magazines. If greater storage capacity is necessary, magazines with up to 320 tool pockets are available. Tool changeover is performed via pick-up method between spindle and magazine. Chip-to-chip time is approx. three sec. The AL 204 is standard equipped with 160 iMB Fanuc control, with Siemens Sinumerik 840 D available as an option. In the fully equipped version, up to 24 NC axes are controlled via two channels.

For more information call the Alfing Corporation at (734) 414-5884. Visit the companyís Web site at [www.alfing.com].