Preowned travelling column milling machines 97

Overview of Travelling Column Milling Machines

Travelling column milling machines are sophisticated and flexible machine tools designed for high-precision, heavy-duty milling operations. Featuring a stationary worktable and a movable column that travels along the X-axis, these machines are capable of machining large and long workpieces with exceptional accuracy. They are particularly valuable in industries such as aerospace, automotive, heavy machinery, and energy, where the production of large-scale and intricate parts is common.

Varieties of Travelling Column Milling Machines

Single Column Travelling Machines

Purpose: Provides precision and flexibility for machining large workpieces.
Applications: Ideal for aerospace components, large molds, and heavy-duty parts.
Key Features: Characterized by a single movable column, high rigidity, and precise control.

Double Column Travelling Machines

Purpose: Enhances stability and support for extremely large and heavy workpieces.
Applications: Perfect for shipbuilding, power generation components, and large structural parts.
Key Features: Dual columns offer increased rigidity, a large work envelope, and high load capacity.

Gantry Travelling Column Machines

Purpose: Merges the benefits of gantry and travelling column designs for maximum flexibility and capacity.
Applications: Suitable for very large and complex parts, such as aerospace frames and large dies.
Key Features: Features a gantry structure with movable columns, extensive travel range, and multi-axis capabilities.

Essential Features and Specifications

When choosing a travelling column milling machine, several key features and specifications must be considered to ensure it meets your production needs:

• Travel Range: The X, Y, and Z-axis travel ranges should accommodate the size of your workpieces.
• Spindle Speed and Power: High spindle speeds and adequate power are crucial for efficient cutting and finishing.
• Table Size and Load Capacity: The stationary table must support large and heavy workpieces with high stability.
• Accuracy and Precision: Features like linear scales, thermal compensation, and advanced control systems ensure high precision.
• Control System: Advanced CNC controls (e.g., FANUC, Siemens, Heidenhain) provide precise programming, ease of operation, and integration with CAD/CAM software.
• Construction and Rigidity: High-quality materials and robust construction minimize vibrations and enhance machining accuracy.
• Tool Changer Capacity: Large tool changer capacities allow for extended operation without manual intervention, increasing productivity.
• Cooling and Lubrication: Efficient cooling and lubrication systems prevent overheating and ensure consistent cutting performance.

Benefits of Travelling Column Milling Machines

Investing in high-quality travelling column milling machines offers numerous benefits:

• Enhanced Flexibility: The movable column allows for machining large and long workpieces that are difficult to handle on traditional milling machines.
• Superior Precision: Advanced control systems and rigid construction ensure high precision and tight tolerances.
• Increased Productivity: High-speed spindles, large tool changers, and automated features reduce setup times and increase throughput.
• Reduced Setup Times: The stationary worktable and movable column minimize the need for repositioning workpieces, saving time and effort.
• Scalability: Suitable for both small batch production and large-scale manufacturing projects.

Considerations for Purchasing a Travelling Column Milling Machine

To select the right travelling column milling machine for your needs, consider the following factors:

• Application Requirements: Identify specific tasks and materials to choose a machine with suitable capacity and features.
• Workpiece Size and Weight: Ensure the machine can accommodate the largest and heaviest workpieces you need to machine.
• Precision Needs: Align the machine’s precision capabilities with your quality standards.
• Budget: Balance the initial investment with long-term operational costs, including maintenance and tooling.
• Space and Installation: Consider the space available for installation and any specific requirements for utilities and infrastructure.
• Service and Support: Evaluate the availability of technical support, training programs, and maintenance services to ensure reliable operation.
• Future Expansion: Assess the machine’s scalability to meet potential increases in production demand.

Leading Brands and Pricing

Several reputable brands manufacture high-quality travelling column milling machines known for their reliability and performance:

Single Column Travelling Machines

• Matsuura: $200,000 to $800,000
• Hurco: $150,000 to $600,000
• Doosan: $180,000 to $700,000

Double Column Travelling Machines

• Mazak: $400,000 to over $2 million
• Okuma: $500,000 to over $2.5 million
• Toshiba Machine: $450,000 to over $2 million

Gantry Travelling Column Machines

• Zimmermann: $1 million to over $5 million
• Fooke: $1.5 million to over $6 million
• WaldrichSiegen: $1.2 million to over $5.5 million

Conclusion

Travelling column milling machines are crucial for machining large and complex workpieces with high precision and flexibility. With options like single column, double column, and gantry travelling column machines, selecting the right equipment depends on your specific production needs, workpiece size, and budget. Important factors to consider include travel range, spindle speed and power, table size and load capacity, accuracy, control systems, construction, tool changer capacity, and cooling and lubrication. Leading brands such as Matsuura, Hurco, Doosan, Mazak, Okuma, Toshiba Machine, Zimmermann, Fooke, and WaldrichSiegen offer a variety of high-quality travelling column milling machines to suit different applications and budgets. By carefully evaluating application requirements, workpiece size, precision needs, and budget, businesses can invest in the right travelling column milling machine to enhance their manufacturing capabilities and ensure consistent, high-quality production.