GEBR. HELLER MASCHINENFABRIK GMBH has introduced two new models to its F-series horizontal CNC machines. The latest generation of the F 5000 five-axis machining center is equipped with a newly developed, rack-type tool magazine “with a particularly compact footprint,” according to Heller.
The high-performance five-axis machining center is available with a work envelope of 800x850x1,100 mm (X/Y/Z), a pallet size of 630x630 mm and a maximum clamping load of 2,000 kg. Due to its modular design, the F 5000 can be configured for a wide range of applications, always ensuring maximum precision and performance for small-to-medium batch machining.
Design highlights include the redesigned swivel heads and integrated motor spindles, developed and manufactured by HELLER, with an HSK-A 100 tool interface as standard and an HSK-A 63 interface available as an option. The dynamic swivel head with fifth axis ensures maximum machining performance. Its drive is based on a backlash-free drive concept delivering impressive precision.
Tilt kinematics are now available as an alternative to the swivel kinematics. Compared to swivel heads, tilt heads offer a significant increase in flexibility for five-axis machining. The tilt kinematics can also be used to machine recesses and undercuts, for example.
HELLER head of development Dr. Manuel Gerst explained: “Especially for the production of integral components, which are often required in the aerospace industry, it is very important that the machines used can also machine at a negative angle. Mechanically, this is not possible with swivel heads. We have designed the new tilt heads specifically with these applications in mind. With an HSK-A 63 tool interface and a high-speed spindle, they are predestined for these applications.”
Combined with HELLER’s new rack-type tool systems, the F machines have compact footprint whilee still offering high tool capacity. While providing ample tool space, they are almost two meters slimmer than the previous models. This is particularly useful when it comes to automating multiple machining centers. Four machines can be placed in a row where previously only three could be installed. The various expansion stages differ only in length.
The rack-type magazines, designed for HSK-A 100 tools with storage capacities of 200, 260, and 340 tools, are no longer than 7,000 mm. They provide 489 storage positions for HSK-A 63 tools. The space-saving arrangement of the tools is crucial to the compact dimensions, enabling a high packing density. The integrated preferential storage module significantly reduces tool provisioning times in practical use. Easy manual tool loading is achieved with an integrated rotary station. It allows up to seven HSK-A 100 or nine HSK-A 63 tools to be loaded in parallel to machining. The racks have also been designed to allow crane loading at any time.
HELLER also has added the F 8000 to its new generation of five-axis machines. Like the smaller versions, this machine is suitable for use in many industries, from mechanical engineering and power generation to aerospace – from single-part manufacturing through to flexible 24/7 series production. With a width of 4.20 m, the high-performance machining centre is significantly slimmer, and in its basic version, takes up around 25% less space than its predecessor.
The PRO version offers high axis acceleration in X/Y/Z of 6 m/s2. Equipped with the PRO package, the F 8000 also steps up in terms of precision. Positioning tolerances in X/Y/Z are 6 µm – a 25% improvement over the previous model. Other highlights include short idle times, optimal automation capability, and compatibility with the H and FP series for a wide range of workpieces.
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