It focused on tIt focused on the company's latest generations of 4-axis and 5-axis machining centres and presented innovative technologies such as power skiving and friction stir welding, along with future-proof digitisation and automation solutions.
he company's latest generations of 4-axis and 5-axis machining centres and presented innovative technologies such as power skiving and friction stir welding, along with future-proof digitisation and automation solutions.
Reinhold Groß, the company’s new CEO said, "It was my first Heller in-house exhibition. Our subsidiaries GSN, Paatz, STS and Wenzler as well as more than 20 partners and suppliers also presented their solutions.
"A total of six different guided tours provided insights into our networked manufacturing and assembly of machining centres, spindle manufacture, component repair, and our modern training factory for machine tool engineers of tomorrow."
Second-generation HF 3500/5500 5-axis machining centres were on display, with emphasis on their greater flexibility, productivity and precision. There was also a spotlight on the fourth generation of the H 4000/6000 4-axis machining centres that once again demonstrated their dynamics, stability and high performance. Additionally, the CP 6000 5-axis mill/turn machining centre demonstrated powerful complete machining on a single platform.
For the first time, Heller presented friction stir welding technology. The process for bonding different workpieces was integrated into its 4-axis and 5-axis machining centres. The joining process enables complete machining and welding in a single setup, offering advantages in terms of productivity and precision.
Two methods for manufacturing gears on 5-axis machining centres were presented. Production of different external and internal gear teeth by power skiving on a standard machine with turning functionality was demonstrated, as was hobbing of external gears. Software and a programming interface for both processes can be retrofitted.
In addition to conventional mill-turn functionality for complete machining, the Nürtingen-based machine tool manufacturer showed an alternative option – interpolation turning. New software has been developed by Siemens, for which Heller provided exclusive support. The flexible system is an attractive alternative for users who rarely need to produce rotational features on a machining centre. The two turning options are complemented by Heller's U-axis facing and boring head that can be integrated into its spindle heads.
