Air Turbine Tools' Spindle Eliminates Thermal Growth in Micromachining Applications

Source: Air Turbine Tools Inc.

Air Turbine Tools’ 601 Series Spindle is designed to combine constant, high-speed, in-cut energy efficiency and a user-friendly design.

The compact 601 Series Spindle incorporates Air Turbine Technology Inc.’s Governor technology, which is said to increase cfm airflow on demand to maintain constant speeds of 40,000-90,000 rpm under cutting load on the tool path. The 601 Series Spindle provides up to 0.2 hp (0.15 kW) of power, providing enough power for micromachining applications. Additionally, Air Turbine Technology Inc.’s range also includes spindles with power to 1.4 hp (1 kW) for larger tools and hard materials.

This specialized turbine maintains the required surface feet per minute (sfm) and chip load for micro and small tools by sustaining high rpm on the tool path.

According to the company, cycle times can be reduced 6-10X compared to standard CNC spindles at 6,000-20,000 rpm. Maintaining high speed in cut also optimizes tool performance, reducing tool breakage and enabling the production of standardized, high-quality parts.

Air Turbine Technology Inc.’s direct-drive 601 spindle is designed to generate no heat, providing consistent 2-µm accuracy with no thermal growth in the spindle. No maintenance is needed, and the spindle is said to be reliable because it comprises just two moving parts.

Fully automated loading is available using air supply through the machine spindle, a collar and stop block or manual connection through the side air inlet. Easy installation minimizes downtime, enabling manufacturers to quickly adapt to changing production demands.

The high-speed capabilities of the 601 Air Turbine Spindle streamline production by eliminating secondary operations. The 50-mm extended barrel on the 601 Series reaches into tight workpiece operations enabling greater maneuverability and access to pockets, angles and hard-to-reach areas. These dimensions enhance access and tool performance on all machines, including those with limited Z-axis travel as well as 360-degree, five-axis programming. The 601 design is also said to eliminate the need for long cutting tool stick-out from the spindle collet in angles or pockets causing vibration, tool breakage and poor surface quality.

No lubrication is required in the high-speed turbine, which eliminates contamination of parts from misting. This feature is especially important to the medical and food industries, the company says. Oil-free operation also reduces maintenance and lubrication costs.