CNC Grinder Features Extended X-, Y-Axis Paths

Schütte’s 325 linear five-axis CNC grinder features extended X- and Y-axis movement, plus two auxiliary slides for workpiece clamping and improved grinding-wheel guidance over the entire machining envelope. The additional second auxiliary slide enables the use of tool guidance, part support, tailstock or workpiece pallets. The grinding machine operates in the range of 2,500 to 4,000 rpm and can accommodate micro tools, gundrills, hob cutters and complex geometries.

The grinder features a universal-rotation A axis with a high level of concentricity (less than 0.0001-degree resolution) and pitch accuracy, while the X-, Y- and Z-axis resolution is maintained at less than 0.1 microns. The swiveling C axis for the grinding head has a 225-degree range of motion and less than 0.0001-degree resolution accuracy. The primary motor spindle offers speeds ranging to 12,000 rpm with 15-kW maximum drive output, while the grinding spindle option affords a maximum speed of 24,000 rpm. X-, Y- and Z-axis travels measure 480 × 250 × 275 mm.

Collet chucks, hydraulic expansion chucks or multi-range chucks can be installed on the machine’s A axis. The A-axis configuration also enables position-oriented clamping of non-rotationally symmetrical workpieces. Sequential workpieces with various roughing and finishing requirements can be preset on the machine for continuous processing. The grinding system also offers scalable automation, with a 140-position toolchanger, a five- to 24-grinding-wheel magazine and a flexible robotic tool gripper for changing micro-tools as available options.

The machine is equipped with Schütte integrated grinding software (SIGSpro) as the programming interface. This software includes the capability to assign clamping options for each grinding operation; support and tool guidance systems; and a 3D mode for cycle simulation, control and optimization. Motion control is maintained on a Siemens 840D sl CNC with compatible drive technology.