Large Surface Grinders Are 20 Percent More Efficient

Photo Credit: Chevalier Machinery

Chevalier Machinery’s two new surface grinders pave the way to smart manufacturing. The new, larger FSG-2048ADIV and FSG-2064ADIV machines, offering 20% higher efficiency, join Chevalier’s ADIV Series of surface grinders. Consistency in machining accuracy and surface finish, no matter what operator is put on the machine, is of high benefit to mold builders.

The new machines have three features designed to achieve higher efficiency and productivity, according to the company:

• Maximum table speed of 98 fpm (30 m/min) achieved by dynamic hydraulic/lubrication system that cools the spindle, guideways and hydraulic oil;
• Spindle that can withstand heavy-load grinding with six ultra-precision angular contact ball bearings;
• Double-layer casting structure that is said to greatly improve accuracy, rigidity and delivers smooth, stable longitudinal movements.

The two new larger machines, along with the entire ADIV Series, offer several design features to shorten processing and non-processing preparation while delivering high-precision workpieces on a fully supported worktable, according to Chevalier. They include: iSurface control, variable speed spindle, constant surface speed, smart grinding path and in-machine manual dynamic balancing.

The FSG-ADIV Series iSurface control is a PC-based (NC control), high-specification industrial unit that ensures that moldmakers can easily hire new operators or switch between jobs without issues and minimal training. The high-response AC servo motors on the Y- and Z-axis are designed to improve accuracy. The control is equipped with a variable-frequency drive system that automatically adjusts the grinding wheel’s line speed. A magnetic encoder accurately detects spindle load and correctly grasps the spindle cutting load. A built-in acceleration gauge monitors the grinding wheel’s balance at all times. 

This series of grinders also includes tools to secure Big Data with Chevalier’s exclusive iMCSTM (iMachine Communications System). Combined with 24/7 data collection, utilization monitoring, data analysis, alarm history,
maintenance and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE), this software package enhances machine efficiency in the factory while enabling remote monitoring and diagnostics to track machine performance and identify potential problems before they arise.