The APLOS U600 five-axis machine tool with direct drive

• What was needed: readychain system consisting of energy chain and chainflex cables such as the CF113.028.D measuring system cable
• Requirements: reliable use with high dynamics under continuous loads, occasionally under harsh environmental conditions in the machine tool
• Industry: machine tool manufacturing
• Success for the customer: durable, reliable solution; quick, easy assembly 

Problem

The cradle five-axis machine tool's power supply system is very complex and must meet the requirements for the moving energy supply of the X, Y, and Z axes and the coupled energy supply system of the cradle-type AC turntable. This represents a challenge for the cable. The APLOS machine tool designers needed a complete solution that avoids the risk of energy supply system failure e.g. due to a broken cable or ejection resulting from acceleration to over 1G, for example. "We place very high demands on machine tools and accessories. The chain system's dynamic performance and reliability are the most important points we considered," says Chao Luo, APLOS General Manager.

Solution

The highly flexible CF270.UL-series chainflex servo cable was used here. The short stranding pitches can optimally balance the resulting forces. The shielding with its flat braid angle provides over 80% coverage. And with the possible bend radius of 10x d, this cable once again creates space within the installation. Conditions in machine tools are often harsh. The PUR outer jacket can counter this with its notched toughness and resistance to oil and coolants and guarantee a long service life.

 

The APLOS U600 five-axis machining centre with a full direct-drive housing can achieve high movement speed (60m/min), positioning accuracy of 3μm, and a repeated positioning accuracy of 2μm.

Group photo of APLOS General Manager Chao Luo (far right), Vice General Manager Zhijian Lin (far left), igus chainflex Product Sales Manager Liang Ding (centre), chainflex Product Manager Jingqing Zhou (second from right) and Sales Engineer Xinwei Zhu (second from left) in front of the U600 five-axis direct drive machine tool.