How to choose the specifications of horizontal machining centers

Horizontal machining center refers to a machining center set parallel to the spindle axis and workbench, mainly suitable for processing box type parts. Its working principle is that after the workpiece is clamped once on the machining center, the computer can automatically select different cutting tools, automatically change the spindle speed of the machine tool, and sequentially complete the processing of multiple processes on multiple surfaces of the workpiece. His advantage is that he can greatly improve production efficiency.

So how should we choose the specifications when choosing? Let's take a look together!

1. Determination of workbench size

This is the main parameter of a horizontal machining center, which mainly depends on the external dimensions and clamping methods of typical parts. A workbench with a slightly larger overall size than typical parts should be selected to leave space for installing fixtures and ensure smooth clamping of parts on it. In addition, the load-bearing capacity of the workbench, the number and size of T-slots, etc. should also be considered.

2. Axis stroke

The most basic coordinate axes are the X, Y, and Z axes, and their stroke is proportional to the size of the workbench. The size of the workbench basically determines the size of the machining space. If the size of individual parts is greater than the stroke of the horizontal machining center, it is necessary to ensure that the processing area of the parts is within the range of the machine tool's stroke. In addition, a series of issues such as whether the parts interfere with the space for exchanging tools with the machine tool, interference with attachments such as the machine tool protective cover, etc. must also be considered. For horizontal machining centers that require multi axis linkage processing (such as adding rotational coordinates A, B, C or additional coordinates U, V, W), such as four axis and five axis linkage horizontal machining centers, special orders are required, and comprehensive consideration and arrangement must be given to the corresponding programming software, measurement methods, and machine tool prices.

When selecting a type, users need to choose horizontal machining centers with different coordinate axis strokes based on the specifications of the processed workpiece, and multi axis linkage requires special customization.

3. Power and torque of spindle motor

It reflects the cutting efficiency of the horizontal machining center, as well as the cutting rigidity of the horizontal machining center and the overall rigidity of the machine tool from one side. The power of the spindle motor can be configured differently on horizontal machining centers of the same specification. Horizontal machining centers with different spindle speeds of the same specification can have significant differences in spindle motor power.

4. Spindle speed and feed speed

When high-speed or ultra-low speed cutting is required, attention should be paid to the speed range of the spindle. Especially during high-speed cutting, it is necessary to have both a high spindle speed and a feed speed that matches the spindle speed. At present, the high-speed trend of horizontal machining centers is developing very fast. The spindle turns from thousands to tens of thousands of revolutions per minute, and the fast moving speed of linear coordinates rises from 10-20/min to more than 80 m/min. Of course, the price of its functional components such as electric spindle, Linear motor, linear rolling guide, spindle bearing, and the matching grating ruler, tools and other accessories is also rising, even very expensive.

5. Magazine capacity

The required quantity can be determined based on the process analysis results of the processed parts. The capacity of the tool library is usually determined by the number of tools required for a typical part in one clamping process. For horizontal machining centers, it is advisable to choose a tool library of about 40 tools. At the same time, attention should be paid to the maximum tool diameter and length, as well as the maximum tool weight. For horizontal machining centers used for FMC or FMS, large capacity tool libraries should be selected, and even interchangeable tool libraries should be configured.