Horizontal Machining Center

BOSSUN:Leading Horizontal Machining Center Manufacture in China

 

Anyang Qunzhi Machine Tool, formerly known as bosheng Machine Tool, has been established for more than 10 years. It now covers an area of 150,00 square meters and has more than 70 senior technicians and more than 300 technical personnel of various types.


It is a comprehensive machine tool manufacturing enterprise integrating machine tool R&D, manufacturing and technical consulting services.

 

Wide Range Of Application
Our products are used in many fields, such as Aviation, automobiles, ships, agricultural machinery, steel, engineering machinery, military industry, mining machinery, railway locomotives, mechanical processing, etc

 

One-Stop Service

  • Pre-sales

We will select the machine tool model according to the customer's needs, confirm the technical agreement with the customer, and complete the customer quotation

  • During sale

Track the details of machine tool purchase parts and workshop production and assembly details.

  • After-sales

After receiving the user's fault report, the technicians will communicate online and provide a response within 24 hours and a solution within 48 hours.

 

Professional Technical Team
We have more than 70 professional technical engineers to provide professional services.

 

Advanced Equipment
We have professional equipment, such as Boring and milling machining center, CNC grinder, etc.

Introduction of Horizontal Machining Center

 

A horizontal machining center (HMC) is a machining center with its spindle in a horizontal orientation. This machining center design favors uninterrupted production work. One reason for this is that the horizontal orientation encourages chips to fall away, so they don’t have to be cleared from the table. More significantly, the horizontal design allows a two-pallet workchanger to be incorporated into a space-efficient machine. To save time, work can be loaded on one pallet of a horizontal machining center while machining occurs on the other pallet.

Benefits Of A Horizontal Machining Center

 

Speed
Shops that require quick turnarounds can benefit from a horizontal machining center. These machining centers can cut at fast speeds for better surface finishes.

A horizontal machining center’s table moves horizontally and transversely. This makes it possible to enable milling action from various angles and not solely on a horizontal plane. Shops can get all the speed without compromising accuracy and precision.

 

Capacity
Again, a horizontal machining center is ideal for large-scale projects. HMCs typically have higher table load capacity as they do not push down, against the table, with the power of the spindle.

If your shop needs to deliver many large scale products, horizontal machining centers are ideal.

 

Chip Evacuation
When comparing a horizontal machining center vs. a vertical machining center, horizontal options are better for chip evacuation. They can produce greater throughput because of the ease of chip removal.

 

Durability
A Horizontal machining center is a sturdier option than vertical machining centers. They typically have a rigid box-way design that offers additional durability. Thanks to this structure, a horizontal machining center can often provide improved damping and increased rigidity for greater accuracy. Its durability allows for less wear and tear on the machine, further reducing costs and providing more reliability.

 

Precision
While horizontal machining centers are not as precise as vertical mills, they can still deliver outstanding accuracy.

Horizontal machining centers are perfect for large production runs because of their notable speed and precision. They also minimize the risk of human error by utilizing automated cuts and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing.

 

Decreased Costs and Increased Profits
A shop or manufacturer can get more out of their labor costs with a horizontal machining center.

These mills have great speed and capacity, so they can achieve higher production for the same labor costs, making it possible to increase your profits. Again, an HMC is highly durable, which allows you to spend less time and money on maintenance, further decreasing costs.

 
Key Advantages of Horizontal CNC Machining Centers
 
01/

Enhanced Stability and Rigidity
One of the key advantages of horizontal CNC machining centers is their enhanced stability and rigidity. The horizontally oriented spindle provides better support for the workpiece, reducing vibrations and ensuring higher machining accuracy. This stability is particularly crucial when machining complex and intricate parts that require tight tolerances.

02/

Increased Flexibility
Horizontal CNC machining centers offer increased flexibility compared to their vertical counterparts. The horizontal spindle allows for multi-axis machining, enabling manufacturers to perform complex operations on multiple sides of the workpiece without the need for repositioning. This capability significantly reduces setup times and increases overall productivity.

03/

Improved Chip Evacuation
Efficient chip evacuation is essential in precision engineering to prevent chip buildup and ensure smooth machining operations. Horizontal CNC machining centers are designed with built-in chip evacuation systems that effectively remove chips from the work area. This feature not only improves machining efficiency but also prolongs tool life and reduces the risk of workpiece damage.

04/

High-Speed Machining
Horizontal CNC machining centers are equipped with high-speed spindles that can reach impressive rotational speeds. This allows for high-speed machining, reducing cycle times and increasing productivity. Additionally, high-speed machining minimizes heat generation, resulting in improved surface finish and extended tool life.

Working Principle of Horizontal Machining Center

 

Double Station Horizontal Machining Center

After the workpiece is clamped once on the machining center, the digital control system can control the machine tool to automatically select and replace the tool according to different machining processes, automatically change the spindle speed of the machine tool, the feed speed and the movement track of the tool relative to the workpiece and other auxiliary functions.

 

The processing of multiple steps on multiple surfaces of the workpiece is completed. And there are a variety of tool change or knife selection functions, which greatly improve production efficiency.

 

Due to the concentration of the process and automatic tool change, the machining center reduces the time for workpiece clamping, measurement and machine adjustment, so that the cutting time of the machine tool reaches about 80% of the machine start time (only 15~20% for ordinary machine tools); It also reduces the workpiece turnover, handling and storage time between processes, shortens the production cycle, and has obvious economic effects. The machining center is suitable for small and medium-sized batch production with complex parts, high precision requirements and frequent product replacement.

 

Compared with the vertical machining center, the horizontal machining center has a complicated structure, a large floor space, and a high price. Moreover, the horizontal machining center is inconvenient to observe during processing, and the parts are not easy to be clamped and measured, but the chip removal during processing. Easy, good for processing.

Where is the Horizontal Machining Center used for?

 

 

Drilling & Tapping
Drilling and tapping are one of the most common applications of a horizontal machining center. This process involves using a combination of both cutting tools and spindle power to produce threaded holes, In this process, the spindle rotates the tool while the table feed moves the workpiece, creating a hole with the desired diameter and threading. Drilling and tapping is a precise and repeatable process that can quickly produce a high-quality result, It is often used to create threaded holes in aluminum and steel parts.

 

Milling & Profiling
The second application of a Horizontal Machining Center is milling and profiling. This process involves cutting away material from the workpiece in order to make it the desired shape. It can be used to create complex shapes, contours, and slots. This method is often used in the production of aerospace components and intricate mechanical parts, as well as in designing molds and dies, The cutting tool is usually held stationary while the warkpiece is moved around the tool in order to achieve the desired shape. This process is highly accurate and efficient, and can be used in multiple axis operations for increased efficiency.

 

Facing & Counterboring
The horizontal machining center is one of the most versatile pieces of equipment used in manufacturing and industrial environments. One of the key operations it can perform is facing 8 counterboring, This is the process of creating a flat surface on a part and then counterboring a hole or holes into the surface. This is commonly used to create holes that are the same diameter as the part, as well as giving the part a flat face. The horizontal machining center is capable of performing this operation quickly and accurately, making it an essential part of any shop floor.

 

Reaming & Counterboring
Reaming and counterboring are two important processes that can be achieved with the help of a horizontal machining canter. Reaming involves creating a smooth and accurate hole in the workpiece, while counterboring removes material from the outer edge of an existing hole in order to accommodate a larger-diameter fastener. Both processes are essential in many applications, such as the manufacturing of automotive components, and can be done with great accuracy and repeatability on a horizontal machining center. This is thanks to the machines high-rigidity spindle, long tool reach, and advanced cutting parameters that can be easily controlled.

 

Thread Cutting & Chamfering
Thread cutting and chamfering can be handled by a horizontal machining center in order to produce internal and external threads of different shapes and sizes. The machining center is equipped with a rotating spindle, which is used to cut the threads in a steady, controlled manner. The cutting process is monitored and controlled by an on-board computer, which continuously adjusts the speed and feed rates to produce the desired thread profile. Additionally, it can also be used to chamfer the edges of a workpiece, creating a cleaner and more professional finish.

 

How Does a Horizontal Machining Center (HMC) Differ from a Vertical Machining Center (VMC)?

Both machines have advantages, and choosing them depends primarily on your machining needs. Each is a high-performance, multi-axis machine tool with high spindle speeds, high-pressure coolant, and CNC control systems to enable high-speed machining.

 

VMCs are by far the more popular of the two for several reasons. They are the least expensive of the two machines and operate in a way that’s more familiar to the average machinist. VMCs are versatile machines available in numerous types and sizes, and they have a reputation for being multi-use machine tools that have proven themselves over the years.

 

Although vertical machining centers have excellent qualities, they also come with a few limitations. They only have one work plane, meaning the workpiece must be flipped five times to reach five sides of a square block. This process increases handling and spindle downtime, requiring a skilled operator.

Horizontal machining centers are better suited for workpieces requiring machining on multiple sides. HMCs are typically built with two integrated pallets, on which fixtures are often attached, allowing the operator to stage a part in the setup station while the piece on the other pallet is machined. As a result, the spindle is utilized more frequently, and production is much higher.

 

Other advantages of the HMC include its larger tool capacity and a better chip flow that sends them away from the worktable, eliminating the need for operators to stop the machine for an occasional chip cleanup. And you can have a fourth axis with the addition of a rotary table.

Roller Linear Rail Vertical Machining Center

Applications Of Horizontal Machining Center

 

 

The horizontal intermediate manufacturing center can process common box parts, such as engine cylinders on automobiles, automobile gearboxes, transmission gearboxes, etc.Horizontal machining centers are generally used for machining box-type parts. The overall structure of the horizontal machining center is suitable for the processing of box-type parts.The horizontal machining center is composed of three linear coordinates and a table rotary axis, which can The similar parts are clamped at one time and complete the processing content of multiple faces. Through one clamping, the accuracy error caused by clamping is reduced.The machining accuracy is high and the machining quality is stable, which not only shortens the production cycle, but also reduces the production cost of the enterprise.

Importance of Regular Maintenance
 

Understanding the Components

To effectively maintain a horizontal lathe machine, it is vital to familiarize yourself with its various components. Get acquainted with the spindle, chuck, tailstock, carriage, and other essential parts. This knowledge will help you identify potential issues and perform necessary maintenance procedures promptly.

 

Lubrication and Cleaning

Proper lubrication is paramount to keep your horizontal lathe machine functioning optimally. Regularly check oil levels and quality, and follow the manufacturer's recommendations for lubrication intervals. Additionally, cleanliness is crucial; keep the machine free from dust, debris, and swarf to prevent potential malfunctions or damage.

 

Inspect and Adjust Critical Parts

Check the alignment of the headstock, tailstock, and carriage using precise measuring tools. Misalignment can lead to poor machining results or premature wear of components. Adjust, tighten, or replace any loose or worn-out parts to ensure accurate and efficient operations.

 
 
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Common Problems of Horizontal Machining Center

Q: What is a horizontal machining center?

A: A horizontal machining center (HMC) is a machining center with its spindle in a horizontal orientation. This machining center design favors uninterrupted production work. One reason for this is that the horizontal orientation encourages chips to fall away, so they don’t have to be cleared from the table. More significantly, the horizontal design allows a two-pallet workchanger to be incorporated into a space-efficient machine. To save time, work can be loaded on one pallet of a horizontal machining center while machining occurs on the other pallet.

Q: When Would You Use a Horizontal Machining Center (HMC)?

A: Slot cutting
Gear cutting
Groove cutting
Parts with detail work on the side
Blocks that require machining on multiple sides
Projects with sizable or heavy parts

Q: What can be done in a horizontal machining center?

A: A horizontal machining center has multiple applications in different industries. For example, in manufacturing they are used to make parts, dies, injection moulds, etc. In the automotive industry, this machine is used to manufacture automobile parts and pieces, while in the case of telecommunications, they are necessary to generate printed circuits.
But the use of this type of machine is not limited to these industries, it is also common to find it in jewelry, engravings, footwear, artistic creations and also for cabinetmaking.

Q: What are the features of horizontal machining center?

A: Like any form of milling, horizontal milling relies on various cutting tools to remove metal from a workpiece. The machining occurs on a horizontal machining center (HMC) with a spindle parallel to the worktable and the floor. With this arrangement, the tool sticks out of the side of the tool holder and machines across the side of the workpiece, allowing chips to drop away and avoiding having to clear chips from the table.
Horizontal machining centers also accommodate two pallet changers, allowing unattended production work and reducing part cycle times. The time saving occurs because work is loaded on one pallet of the HMC while machining is happening on the other pallet. After one part is machined, the pallet will index, and the next workpiece is ready.

Q: What are the parts of a horizontal machining center?

A: Using the horizontal type as an example, the general structure of a machining center consists of a base part called a bed at the bottom, a saddle that moves on the bed, a table attached on top of the saddle for placing the raw material, a column installed perpendicularly to the bed, and a spindle head where the cutting tools are attached.

Q: What is the difference between machine and machining center?

A: The term “machine” generally refers to any equipment that performs work, while a “machining center” is a specific type of CNC machine tool designed to perform multiple machining operations.
While a standard machine tool might only perform one type of operation (e.g., milling), a machining center (CNC machining center) integrates various functions like milling, drilling, and tapping, all in one system. The inclusion of features like automatic tool changers and pallet changers differentiates machining centers from traditional machine tools.

Q: How is a machining center programmed and controlled?

A: CAD/CAM Integration: Designers use Computer-Aided Design (CAD) to create the part’s geometry. Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software then translates this design into a CNC program.
G-Code Generation: The CNC program consists of G-code, a series of commands that the machine understands. It includes instructions for movement, speed, tool change, and other factors.
Control Panel: Operators input the G-code into the machine’s control panel. Modern machining centers often feature user-friendly interfaces for easier control.
Servo Motors and Drives: These components translate the G-code into mechanical movements, ensuring precise control over the axes.
Feedback Systems: Sensors and feedback mechanisms continuously monitor the machining process, making real-time adjustments to maintain accuracy.

Q: What are the main axes of a machining center?

A: Machining centers function on various axes to control the movement of the cutting tool and the workpiece. The coordination of these axes ensures precise cuts and intricate designs. Here’s a breakdown of the main axes and their purposes:
X-Axis: Controls the left and right movement of the tool or worktable.
Y-Axis: Governs the forward and backward movement of the tool or worktable.
Z-Axis: Manages the up and down movement of the tool or worktable.
A-Axis: Controls the rotation around the X-axis.
B-Axis: Handles the rotation around the Y-axis.
C-Axis: Responsible for the rotation around the Z-axis.

Q: What functions can a machining center perform?

A: Most machining centers on the market feature numerical control (CNC) and serve more than one purpose. Many can perform combinations of operations such as milling, drilling, boring, tapping and reaming in a single setup.

Q: What are the basic concepts of CNC machining center?

A: A basic CNC Machining Center refers to a Computerized Numerically Controlled Milling Machine. This Machining Center will have a minimum of 3 axis, referred to as X, Y, and Z. It will incorporate a milling or drilling type tool mounted in a rotating spindle. The workpiece to be machined will be clamped or “fixtured” on the X-axis and typically does not rotate. A CNC Machining Center will also include an automatic tool changer versus a basic Milling Machine that utilizes one type of cutting tool that is manually changed.

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