Installation of 6-axis robots into the operating sequence on CNC multi-spindle lathes is significantly adding to their performance and flexibility, especially for complex chucked components.
Index-Werke of Esslingen, Germany is a well known manufacturer of CNC multi-spindle lathes. Installation of Staubli six axis robots into their latest models is significantly adding to their performance and flexibility, especially for complex chucked components. Index multi-spindle lathes are capable of machining increasingly complex components by using several tools on each of the spindles, bar feedstock can be machined much more economically than on single spindle lathes.
These benefits are now also becoming available for chucked components through the integration of Staubli 6-axis robots into the operating sequence of the machine.
Index's new, open fronted, MS52C compact lathe can be converted into an automatic chucking lathe by the addition of a Staubli RX60 robot to load the blanks for machining and remove the finished components.
A robot can also be added to the larger MS52C lathe.
For this model a Staubli RX90 was selected providing a high workload capacity and longer reach.
The open front design of both machines allows the robot to be flange mounted on the workspace cover.
Standard spray proof (IP65) robots are used.
The robot is located between the two remaining coolant supply spars at the front face and is able to use a dual gripper assembly fitted to the robot arm, to remove blanks from storage in front of the machine.
The blanks are brought to the working spindle and exchanged for finished parts which are then correctly orientated and placed in the exit storage also at the front of the machine.
To allow fully automatic loading and unloading the lathe shield has been extended forwards and made secure and lockable.
This simple addition provides the potential for dramatic increases in productivity.
The Index lathe and Staubli robot operate as a single, inseparable entity and significantly add to the flexibility of these successful machine tools.
Many machine tool users are now evaluating the benefits that can be achieved by incorporation of Staubli 6-axis robots into the machining cycle.
Staubli with their comprehensive range of 4- and 6-axis fast, accurate, reliable and highly efficient robots will have a model in their range that is suitable for working effectively with most machine tools.
Their team of specialists are on call to advise on the selection, installation, operation and integration of the robot.
* About Staubli - Staubli is an international family owned group founded over 100 years ago in Switzerland employing over 3000 world-wide.
Robotic production is centred south of Geneva in the French Alps, with facilities across Europe, North and South America and the Far East, the UK base is in Telford.
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