New Single-Pass Honing Machines Feature Most Accurate Spindle Alignment In The Industry To Produce Ultra-Precise Geometry In Part Bores
Sunnen is introducing the new VSS Series 2 Single Stroke Honing systems at IMTS, offering the most accurate spindle alignment in the industry combined with flexible, easy-to-use controls. Spindles on VSS-2 machines are factory aligned, independently, for precision centering of the spindles and tooling plate to produce better bore geometry than possible with machines that use an "average" alignment for all the spindles. Alignment accuracy exceeds DIN 8635 requirements for vertical honing machines. VSS-2 Series machines incorporate up to six spindles to progressively size and finish part bores with tools of preset diameter and grit size. The machines are ideal for precision sizing of bores 3.9-50 mm (0.149-2.0") diameter in stamped parts, hydraulic valve bodies, gears and sprockets, parking pawls, rocker arms, turbocharger housings and similar parts. Appropriate materials include cast iron, powdered metals, ceramic, glass graphite and other free-cutting materials.
The VSS-2 utilizes a belt-drive spindle cartridge with a 724 mm (28.5") stroke and 2-105 mm/sec (2-250 ipm) stroking speed for increased flexibility with a wide variety of parts and tooling combinations. The servo-powered stroke system provides excellent crash protection and is hand-wheel-controlled for quick setting of vertical position.
The state-of-the-art, menu-driven PLC Control with human-machine interface (HMI) allows the column feed and spindle speed to be easily varied throughout the cycle. Operational flexibility is enhanced by the use of six available profiles, including pecking, short stroke and dwell, which are easily added to a setup. More than 100 setups can be stored. Additional I/O and memory are standard for ease of automation.
"The VSS Series 2 sets a new standard for single-pass bore sizing efficiency," said Phil Hanna, Sunnen's Product Manager for machines. "If a part is best suited for single-pass honing, the VSS-2 provides a level of precision not available in other designs. And, with the new touch screen control, this machine is very operator-friendly. No custom electronics or special training are needed and the control is designed to interface with part handling automation systems."
The VSS Series 2 is available in three models – the 84 (eight-station, four-spindle), the 86 (eight-station, 6-spindle) and the 64 (six-station, four-spindle) – to meet various mid- to high production needs. Spacing between spindles is 190 mm (7.48"). The 7.5 kW (10 hp) spindle drive provides a speed range of 100-2500 rpm. Removable, maintenance-free stainless steel guarding and electrical panel mounted to the rear of the machine allow easy access to the work envelope from either side of the machine to facilitate tool change or integration of custom part handling systems.
Built on the same platform as Sunnen's SV Series of honing machines, the VSS Series 2 machines are set on a rugged cast composite machine base for durability and vibration damping. A rigid cast iron, servo-fed column ensures consistent performance and accuracy.
When properly applied, Single Stroke Honing is a quick, cost-effective method to get a precise bore size, geometry and surface finish. Parts made of cast iron, powdered metals, ceramic, glass, graphite and other free cutting materials– with L/D ratios up to 1:1 – are ideal for the process. Single-pass bore sizing is also appropriate for splined bores or longer L/D ratios if cross holes or other interruptions are present to allow chip flushing. Sunnen offers a range of single-pass plated-diamond tooling for the VSS-2 for precise, accurate and consistent bore sizing.
"Sunnen is the only company offering both conventional and single-pass bore sizing machines, so we can impartially provide the best solution based on the part being honed," said Hanna. "If a part is appropriate for single-pass honing, the VSS-2 delivers a value-priced, compact, customizable package."
Other standard features of the VSS-2 include an electric rotary index table and solid tool holder. Available options include floating or rigid/adjustable tool holders, 12- and 16-port programmable rotary air unions for index output, base coolant evacuation pump, automatic lubrication system, work area light kit, stack light, tool alignment indicator, spindle crash protection and tool protection.
SOURCE: Sunnen