Tool Grinder Offers Versatile Spindle Configuration

United Grinding America will display a custom-painted, 20th anniversary version of the Walter Helitronic Power CNC tool grinding machine. Designed with precision, productivity and flexibility in mind, the tool grinder produces and resharpens rotationally symmetrical tools and complex parts made from high speed steel, carbide, cermet and ceramic in a single clamping. 

The machine features a solid grey cast iron base and 3D gantry design, providing high stability properties to convert the high dynamism of the digital drives into low-vibration grinding precision. The design's minimal axis travels and high rigidity produce fast cycle times and improved tool finishes. Automatic positioning and the company's Heli-Probe measuring system collects important tool parameters and quickly positions the tool, further increasing productivity.

The single-ended motor spindle option produces as much as 24 kw of power, and a liquid cooling system increases spindle life. For high levels of efficiency and productivity, as many as three grinding wheels can be mounted in a single grinding wheel holder, with as many as eight grinding wheel holders fitting into the grinding wheel changer. The belt-driven spindle option with two ends accepts as many as six grinding wheels, and the different grinding wheel sets correspond with the relevant spindle along with the wheel measurement data.

With a GE FANUC control and Helitronic Tool Studio application software, the machine is said to provide high reliability, precision and speed and simple operation. Operators can program machine steps and movement sequences for both rotationally symmetrical tools and special tools. For increased efficiency, the application software includes options enabling users to add a feed rate optimizer, tool balancer, an integrated measuring system and adaptive control.