Chevalier’s FBB series sets the benchmark for rigidity, reliability

By Niraj M Wanikar, Chief Editor, CNCTimes.com, 2014-06-27 22:08:37

The FBB-110L series, a T-type boring mill from Chevalier, expertly handles heavy-duty, high-precision machining with a moving column on the Z-axis for larger machining capabilities.

The extra-rigid design of the main machine body and column ensure outstanding structural stability. The one-piece machine base includes large guide ways on the X- and Z-axes for full table support with no overhang issues.

The machine’s table size is 63" x 56.7" with a table load up to 22,000 lbs. The XYZ 118.1" x 82.7" x 59". W travel is 19.7". This FBB model’s net weight is 57,200 lbs, with a floor space of 335" x 310" x 162". The optional double arm type ATC accepts tool weight of up to 55 lbs. The machine has a standard chain type 60-tool magazine available.

The series features a one-piece Meehanite cast iron base with heavy-duty large box ways on X-, Y-, and Z-axes and is coated with anti-friction material for consistent accuracy and smooth movement. The high-quality C3 grade ball screws are used on all axes for high precision positioning.

The 35HP, 50-taper, large-diameter, cartridge-type, air-purged spindle runs with 2-speed gear head stock that generates a maximum of 1500NM to overcome most tough-material cutting conditions. Spiral-type spindle cooling system provides constant, all-around lubrication, preventing thermal deformation and substantially prolonging the life of the spindle, bearings and gears. The spindle can be extended (W-axis) for deep-hole boring with high-rigidity and superior machining accuracy.

The table features a full C-axis contouring with 0.001-degree minimum intervals. It also has a hydraulic break disk plus a locking pin every 90 degrees, designed for maximum stability. The rotary table is driven by an AC servo motor with a worm shaft and gear that provides high torque for heavy work pieces. The angular scale is built in the table to assure the accuracy of ± 15 arc-second.

All three axes are equipped with standard scales to assure accuracy. The spindle oil cooler that controls the various temperature changes in the spindle during the machining of consistently accurate work pieces is standard equipment, along with the lubrication system. The standard lift-up chip conveyor and two internal chips augers are also all standard equipment. The FANUC 0i-MD control has the latest technology with a powerful control feature with Ethernet connection and easy-access. A front memory card slot; and a huge data-server memory capacity are among the many standard features.

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