Automation and digitization drive machine tool development

The innovations for machine tools that Schaeffler is presenting at EMO in Milan are in line with current trends in the sector: increasing automation and integrated system solutions to increase efficiency; integration of multiple machining technologies within the same machine; and digitalisation for condition monitoring and greater autonomy of operation.

Automation solutions can help to dramatically reduce the time taken for machine setup and auxiliary processes. Examples of this include the trend towards larger machine tools and the use of handling systems to link multiple independent machines. Manufacturers are also increasingly using articulated-arm robots, which can be mounted on linear axes to perform tasks such as loading and unloading magazines and machine tools. This market is growing steadily and driving increasing demand for rolling bearings, linear guideways and integrated systems and services. Turning/milling combined machines are another steady growth area.
For the rotary tables used in these highly dynamic machining centers, Schaeffler offers a range of high-performance bearings including variants with integrated angle measuring systems and direct drives. Schaeffler rotary table bearings differ from competitor brands in several respects, most notably their much higher tilting rigidity (up to 30 percent) and very low friction values. For machine manufacturers, this increases rotary table rigidity and speed and reduces thermal influences. End users of these machines benefit from enhanced machining performance, faster cycle times, and improved accuracy and surface finishes.

Multi-function machine tools: a growing trend

Machine tools that comprise multiple functions or machining technologies are a highly attractive proposition from a TCO standpoint, but they present greater challenges in terms of the rolling bearings needed for spindles, feed drives and linear axes. Rolling bearings must be resistant to contamination by hard particles and have reliable, low-friction sealing systems that can be adapted for the various machining processes involved. At EMO 2021, Schaeffler will be presenting its latest solutions to these challenges, including products that incorporate our RUE-F next-generation linear recirculating roller bearing and guideway assemblies.
The RUE-F assemblies have been engineered to use significantly less lubricant, which lowers their operating costs as well as protecting the environment.
This in turn reduces the costs associated with lubricant contamination, particularly in machines that use cooling lubricants. In addition, the improved kinematics of the return geometry in these assemblies enables the machine tool to produce much better surface finishes. Digitalization for machine monitoring and increased uptime Schaeffler is also presenting its monitoring solutions for the machine tool segment. Schaeffler SpindleSense, for example, is a system that measures main spindle displacement, allowing main spindles to be operated safely at maximum load. Schaeffler DuraSense, a monitoring solution for feed axes, ensures precise lubrication according to actual requirements and enables analysis of machine states, thereby preventing unscheduled downtime and increasing plant availability. Users can retrofit their existing machinery with DuraSense functionality; this is a low-cost way to digitalize existing plant and machinery.