How to produce beams and crossbeams quickly, cost-effectively and with maximum precision.
In the aviation industry, beams and crossbeams
are among the key components in the structure of an aircraft.
These large and complex components have traditionally been manufactured on horizontal machining centres, which are particularly suited to such tasks due to their design and machining strategies.
Yet could there be a better, more economical and faster method? Yes - with our 5-axis portal milling machine!
Classic horizontal machining centres vs. portal milling machine
Horizontal machining centres are perfectly qualified for machining beams and crossbeams, but often involve several clamping and reclamping operations.
As a leading manufacturer of portal milling machines, we have set ourselves the task of highlighting the advantages of our machines over conventional horizontal machining centres - especially when it comes to producing large and complex components in a faster and more economical way.
Our solution: A new approach to the machining task.
Our strategy: Efficiency through a new manufacturing process
With our ENDURA® 715LINEAR demonstration machine, we have fundamentally redesigned and optimised the machining process for beams. Instead of relying on classic horizontal machining centres, we made use of the portal milling machine's kinematics and developed a highly efficient machining process.
THE ADVANTAGES AT A GLANCE
Machining on all sides
in only one clamping operation
Due to the fully adjustable fork head with two rotary axes, we are able to reach any point on the component. This enables us to completely manufacture these components in just one clamping operation - a significant and distinct advantage compared to the frequent reclamping operations required for horizontal machines.
Reduced set-up times
and more efficient production
By developing a clamping concept in collaboration with LANG Spanntechnik, we were able to optimise the entire machining process even more efficiently. Due to the MakroGrip system, which offers high holding forces, easy adaptability and a small interfering contour, the component is fixed securely and stably. This allows us to optimally redirect the process forces and machine the workpiece in a single operation.
The process
Accuracy at the highest level
Our machining process is divided into several carefully coordinated steps:
1. Roughing
We focus on customised roughing strategies that control the process forces and enable stable machining that makes optimum use of the dynamic milling machine and spindle utilisation.
2. Finishing
With tools specially developed for machining lightweight structural components and FOOKE's typical machine precision, we ensure that the surface quality and dimensional accuracy meet the highest requirements.
3. Bottom surface machining
At the end of the process, we machine the workpiece's underside, leaving only a few small joints between the component and the clamping foot. These specific predetermined breaking points enables the component to be easily removed manually.
Bottom line: Flexibility and efficiency of the portal milling machine
The results of our tests clearly show that our ENDURA® portal milling machines in particular are capable of producing beams and crossbeams economically and efficiently, making them a good alternative to traditional horizontal machining centres.
Due to the fork head, the associated flexible accessibility and the large machining area, we can machine components on all sides, which significantly reduces set-up times. In addition, preparatory clamping operations are completely eliminated.
Your advantages:
Maximum flexibility: Ideal for a high level component variance due to machining on all sides in one single clamping operation.
Excellent profitability: Shorter set-up times and faster processes result in lower production costs.
Precision and control: Optimal control of process forces and precise results, even with complex components.
Increase your productivity
with portal milling machines made by FOOKE
Benefit from the advantages of our 5-axis portal milling machines and take your production to the next level.
Contact us now for more information about our customised solutions for the efficient production of beams and crossbeams!
Phone: +49 (0) 2861 / 8009 - 222
E-mail: sales@fooke.de
