CNC Enables Simultaneous Machining with Two Tools

Siemens has expanded the scope of its Sinumerik 828D CNC family with software version 4.7 and the PPU 2xx.3. The Sinumerik 828D Advanced enables control of as many as 10 axes/spindles and two auxiliary axes, and the Sinumerik 828D offers a second machining channel for simultaneous machining with two tools. The update also increases the range of applications for the machine’s controllers including milling, turning and grinding machines.

The 828D Advanced can control milling machines with as many as eight interpolating axes or spindles, and two additional auxiliary axes for the control of peripheral devices like tool carousels, pallet changers or chip conveyors. Users can engage a second machining channel to execute two different NC programs simultaneously in their turning and rotary grinding machines, or they can synchronize the programs using ProgramSync. Two workpieces can be machined at the same time on one machine, enabling, for example, simultaneous rear-face machining in the counter-spindle. Two tools can also simultaneously work on the same workpiece to enable faster rough cutting or simultaneous roughing and finishing for processes such as balance cutting. This increases the throughput of workpieces per machine while maintaining machining accuracy.

Software version 4.7 includes G-Tech software for grinding. It enables machine tool builders to design compact grinding machines with as many as 10 axes and two machining channels. In addition, the machine offers functionalities such as grinding cycles and application-specific tool management.

Other improvements include syntax highlighting, the ability to transfer contour elements directly from a DXF file via contour detection into workpiece machining programming and the ability to call up different documents and file formats on the machine’s screen for support.