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Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology

EMO Hannover 2011: Large machining center for small components – the Fraunhofer IPT and Schmoll present their new micro milling machine

Presseinformation 19.09.2011

High precision structures micro-milled in the largest possible machining space – these are the requirements placed by the watch-making industry in order to be able to machine as many workpieces as possible in a single operation. The new micro milling machine being presented by the Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology IPT and Schmoll Maschinen GmbH at the EMO Hannover Trade Fair at stand B84 in hall 13 meets these requirements. The machine is based on Schmoll’s modular machine concept, modified by the Fraunhofer IPT to suit the milling process, complete with a new control system.

Micro-Milled Mold Insert Made of Brass 

Plenty of space for 3-axis machining of small surfaces

The 3-axis micro milling machine is equipped with linear motor technology throughout and has two high-frequency spindles. A solid granite bed and highly rigid guide elements ensure a high degree of static and dynamic rigidity. Compared to the machine’s overall footprint of only 1.69 m², the 390 x 490 mm table is relatively large. In such a large space, it becomes possible to machine numerous workpieces next to each other, allowing manufacturers to machine more precision components in less time.

Lasers measure with micrometer precision

The Fraunhofer IPT is also presenting two other technologies that improve the efficiency of precision manufacturing: a high precision measuring system and a universal hydrostatic test bed. The "Multitrace" measuring system can measure the machining accuracy of a machine or robot with micrometer precision. The mobile system consists of four Etalon AG laser tracers and simultaneously performs length measurements with a frequency of up to 200 Hz. This even makes it possible to determine the track speeds of individual tools in real time.

In order to simulate and check the function of hydrostatic bearing systems in precision and ultra-precision machines, the Fraunhofer IPT has also developed a universally applicable hydrostatic test bed. A modularly integrated measuring system makes it possible to both statically and dynamically characterize hydrostatic bearings. The test bed can also be used to quickly and reliably assess the suitability of various manufacturing techniques for hydrostatic bearing systems.

Laser-assisted turning of ceramic workpieces straight from the bar

A new modular tooling system for integrating laser technology into lathes has been developed by the Fraunhofer IPT in cooperation with A. Monforts Werkzeugmaschinen GmbH & Co. KG. The system being presented at stand C69 in hall 17 makes it possible to flexibly apply laser technologies within manufacturing processes. The use of an integrated laser means that geometrically complex silicon nitride components can be turned straight from the bar. The system can also be used to integrate heat treatment operations into the turning process in order to reduce manufacturing times. The system, which is already commercially available, can easily be retro-fitted to conventional lathes and operated without the need for laser-specific training.