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Automatic tailstock for Hermle machining centres
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July 2008
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An optional tailstock assembly allows single-hit, 4- and 5-axis prismatic machining of long, thin workpieces that need to be supported at both ends to achieve the required accuracy. It clamps onto the trunnion of the C 30 U and C 40 U vertical machining centres, alongside the 360-degree rotary table.
Unusual is the facility to position the tailstock automatically in two axes under NC command. In a single cycle and without manual intervention, this allows precise, all-round machining on four sides of a part held between centres, followed by machining on the fifth side (unclamped end) after automatic removal of the rotating centre.
This is achieved by retracting it using the 220 mm stroke of twin linear slides on which the centre moves, and then swivelling the slide assembly downwards through 90 deg to allow the cutter to access the end of the component. In the latter mode, normal 5-axis simultaneous machining or 5-sided machining can be performed on shorter, self-supporting billets, castings or forgings.
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Author
Celia Cadwallader
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