With the acceleration of intelligent and digital transformation in the manufacturing industry, traditional processing equipment has been unable to meet the high-precision and high-efficiency production needs of complex parts. As the core equipment in the field of modern mechanical processing, the vertical machining center integrates milling, drilling, boring, tapping and other processing technologies with its unique structural design and powerful functional integration, and completes multiple processing steps in one clamping. It is becoming a key force in promoting the high-quality development of the manufacturing industry.
Definition of vertical machining center
Vertical machining center refers to a machining center with the spindle axis perpendicular to the worktable, which is a type of CNC machining equipment. The equipment is mainly composed of a bed, a column, a worktable, a spindle box, a tool magazine and a control system. Through the computer numerical control system (CNC), according to the pre-programmed machining program, the tool is controlled to move along the three linear coordinate axes of X, Y, and Z and the C axis rotating around the Z axis (equipped with some high-end models), and the workpiece is milled, drilled, bored, reamed, tapped and other machining operations are performed.
Machining technology of vertical machining center
Process planning
According to the part drawings and technical requirements, analyze the structural characteristics and machining accuracy requirements of the parts, and determine the machining process route. Clarify the sequence and processing methods of each processing step, select appropriate tools and cutting parameters, and use CAD/CAM software to generate CNC machining programs.
Workpiece clamping
According to the shape, size and processing requirements of the workpiece, select the appropriate clamping method, commonly used are flat-nose clamping, pressure plate bolt clamping, special fixture clamping, etc.
Tool setting operation
After installing the tool on the spindle, determine the relative position of the tool and the workpiece coordinate system through manual trial cutting, tool setting instrument or in-machine tool setting, establish tool compensation parameters, and ensure machining dimensional accuracy.
Automatic processing
Transfer the written CNC program to the machining center control system, check the program is correct, and start the machine tool for automatic processing.
Quality inspection
After the processing is completed, use vernier calipers, micrometers, three-coordinate measuring instruments and other inspection tools to conduct a comprehensive inspection of the workpiece's dimensional accuracy, shape accuracy, surface roughness, etc.
Types of vertical machining centers
Three-axis vertical machining center
The most basic type, with three linear coordinate axes of X, Y, and Z, can complete conventional machining tasks such as plane milling, drilling, and boring.
Four-axis vertical machining center
On the basis of three axes, a C axis that rotates around the Z axis is added to realize multi-angle machining of the workpiece with one clamping, reduce the number of clamping times, and improve machining accuracy and efficiency.
Five-axis linkage vertical machining center
It has three linear axes of X, Y, and Z and two rotation axes (such as A axis and C axis), and the five axes can be controlled simultaneously.
Precautions for vertical machining centers
Equipment operation specifications
Operators must undergo professional training and be familiar with the operation panel, function buttons and operation procedures of the vertical machining center. They must start and stop the equipment in strict accordance with the operating procedures to avoid equipment damage or safety accidents caused by misoperation.
Daily maintenance
Perform regular maintenance work such as cleaning, lubrication, and tightening on the equipment.
Tool management
Select tools reasonably, and determine the tool type, specifications and material according to the processing materials, processing technology and processing parameters.
Processing safety
During the processing, protective equipment such as protective glasses and protective gloves must be worn. It is strictly forbidden to open the protective cover or touch the tool or workpiece with your hands when the machine tool is running.
Program check
Before running the CNC program, you need to carefully check the program code to confirm that the tool path, cutting parameters, etc. are set correctly. You can check the correctness of the program through the simulation processing function to prevent program errors from causing accidents such as collision and overcutting.
Application fields of vertical machining centers
Machinery manufacturing industry
Used to process various mechanical parts, such as gearbox housings, motor end covers, bearing seats, etc.
Mold manufacturing field
It is the main equipment for mold processing, and can process key components such as cavities, cores, sliders, etc. of various molds such as forging molds, die-casting molds, and stamping molds.
Automotive industry
It plays an important role in the manufacturing of automotive parts, and is used to process engine cylinder blocks, cylinder heads, transmission housings, steering knuckles and other parts, as well as automotive interior and exterior parts molds.
Aerospace field
Used to process aircraft engine blades, aircraft structural parts, spacecraft parts, etc.
3C product manufacturing
It is widely used in the processing of shells and internal structural parts of 3C products such as mobile phones, tablets, and laptops.
Are you still worried about the insufficient machining accuracy and low production efficiency of parts? Are you still looking for processing equipment that can meet the needs of complex processes? Our vertical machining center is equipped with advanced CNC systems and high-precision transmission components. Whether it is the high efficiency and stability of three axes or the precision and complex processing of five axes, it can easily cope with it! From the early process planning to the equipment selection, Xuanmin Technology's professional team will provide you with a one-stop solution and tailor the most suitable processing plan. Feel free to contact us at any time to make an appointment for equipment demonstration and witness with your own eyes how the vertical machining center can improve the quality and efficiency of your production!
