Product category:
Software, off-line programming, CAM, for metal cutting machine tools
News Release from: Heidenhain (GB) | Subject: ITNC 530 CNC adaptive feed rate software
Edited by the Manufacturingtalk Editorial
Team on 24 July 2006
Adaptive feed rate optimises machining
time
Latest CNC software developments offer adaptive feed control allows the feed rate to be re-calculated and varied subject to the percentage of spindle power and other process monitored data.
Up until the latest software developments of Heidenhain's iTNC 530 CNC control the feed rate programmed was very much fixed The only adjustments that could be made were via manual feed rate override, which depended heavily on the skill of the machine operator and the reliance on him being at the control when the adjustment needed to be made
This article was originally published on Manufacturingtalk on 29 May 2001 at 8.00am (UK)
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Now, as part of the latest upgrade package for the iTNC 530, users have the benefit of Adaptive Feed Control (AFC).
This system, using pre-defined limit values set during the 'teach-in cut', allows the feed rate to be re-calculated and varied subject to the percentage of spindle power and other process data that is being monitored by the control at any one time.
The three key benefits of AFC are: optimised machine cycle times; tool monitoring; and reduced machine wear.
"In regard to cycle times AFC comes into its own where the material being cut is subject to fluctuations in quality," says Neil Prescott, Heidenhain's CNC Applications manager.
"Issues such as blow holes or excessive material can now be compensated for by the control automatically adjusting feed rates, with the feed reduced where material problems are present and increasing where practical to do so.
The overall result is reduced in-cut times." In a similar way the AFC feature constantly monitors the actual spindle power with the feed rate.
As this nominal spindle power increases it is an indication of a worn cutting tool and the feed rate is reduced accordingly.
Once the feed rate falls below a defined minimum the control will react with an error message or by bringing the cycle to a controlled stop.
The fact that AFC is constantly monitoring the spindle and adjusting feed rates to these pre-defined limits ensures that the spindle assembly and drive is never placed in an overload situation.
This level of spindle protection reduces the stress placed on the spindle and in turn extends the spindle's service life.
"The addition of Adaptive Feed Control to the Heidenhain iTNC 530 provides users with valuable benefits in respect to reduced cycle times, improved machine utilisation and the safeguards that if something unexpected occurs, such as material fluctuation or excessive tool wear, the control is constantly monitoring the situation and will prevent damage to the machine or component," said Prescott. Request a free brochure from Heidenhain (GB) ...
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