Servodrive control improvements augment machine tool performance

Applied automation: Upgraded vertical honing machines introduce new capabilities, higher accuracy/safety, and new model designations. New servo technology for spindle, stroker, and tool-feed add new capabilities to reduce cycle time and expand processing options.

January 22, 2013

Sunnen Products introduces new servomotor and drive technology under the hood of its three primary vertical honing platforms, bringing additional capabilities, speed, accuracy, and safety to the machines. As a result, the company’s existing SV-1000, SV-400, and SV-500 models are being replaced with the SV-2000, SV-2400, and SV-2500 series of machines that feature the same outward appearance as the predecessor models. Upgraded capabilities in the new models include selectable tool-feed, constant crosshatch, and faster automatic bore detection for reduced cycle times. The range of machines can process bore IDs from 3 mm to 300 mm, typically found in parts, such as fuel injectors, piston pumps, gun barrels, hydraulic components, engine/compressor cylinders, diesel cylinder liners, landing gear, and similar components.

All of the new models now include a 7.5 kW (10 hp) servo spindle. The new SV-2000 platform offers a new choice of controlled-force or controlled-rate tool feed. Controlled-rate allows automatic tool feed in increments as fine as 0.1 µm (0.000010-in.). Controlled-force tool feed monitors force in the tool feed system. It feeds the abrasive at the highest rate possible for part conditions, ensuring the shortest cycle times and longer abrasive life. All the new platforms include safe-drive technology that monitors all safety devices on the machine with a separate PLC, which stops or limits the speed of the drives if triggered.

The new SV-2400 platform now includes selectable “constant spindle load” and controlled-rate tool feed as standard. Other new capabilities on the upgraded models include whole-bore, constant crosshatch angle. Constant crosshatch eliminates the "flattening" of the crosshatch angle at stroke-reversal points, a feature required by some engine manufacturers and MilSpec parts. The new drive technology also enables the machines to be set up to hone only on the pull stroke, or easily produce custom profiled and tapered bores.

SV-2000 and SV-2400 machines are already in production, while remaining SV-400 and 500 models will be replaced later this year, the company said.

– Edited by Mark T. Hoske, content manager, CFE Media, Control Engineering and Plant Engineering, mhoske@cfemedia.com.

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