Additive manufacturing (AM) is described as a “strategic focus” in Schaeffler’s development roadmap. The two firms signed a cooperation agreement at last year’s JIMTOF 2016 exhibition (Japan International Machine Tool Fair. In addition, the marketing partnership that commenced in 2016 has been extended, meaning that Schaeffler remains DMG Mori’s global marketing partner for rolling bearings and linear technology.
A DMG Mori Lasertec 65 3D, a 5-axis machining centre including a laser metal deposition welding unit, will be used at Schaeffler in pursuit of its AM ambition. The focus is on process issues, as well as on the materials used and their suitability for the process. By using the Lasertec 65D, resulting AM components can be finished by metalcutting immediately afterwards.
On marketing, this initially saw Schaeffler participate at in-house exhibitions, technology symposia and training courses held by DMG Mori. This cooperation is expected to increase, with operators of machine tools, in particular, benefiting from this cooperation in two ways. First, it will help to demonstrate bearings, linear technology and direct drive technology, as well as new ideas in sensor systems and linking components. Second, it will help to show how these can be used for predictive maintenance, increasing efficiency and process optimisation.
Says Dr Stefan Spindler, CEO Industrial of Schaeffler AG: “Both partners complement each other perfectly to drive the future of machine tools, as well as the continuing development of rolling bearing technology. Our joint ‘Machine Tool 4.0’ development project [https://is.gd/awamag] has already demonstrated this with great success. Our cooperation in additive manufacturing means another very important strategic area for the future.”
At JIMTOF, Schaeffler and DMG Mori presented their ‘Machine Tool 4.0’ innovation project jointly with other partners. The project links existing technology with new digitalised machine components, from sensors to the cloud computing. Two prototypes, based on the fourth-generation DMC 80 FD duoBLOCK universal milling and turning machining centre, were set up. This saw additional sensors for measuring vibrations, forces, temperatures and pressures integrated in almost all bearing positions relevant to the machining, thus gaining optimum information about the machine’s condition.
