Starrag’s HPMS (High Performance Machining Systems) business unit, which includes the Chemnitz and Rorschacherberg sites, has developed a new large machine construction kit from which new machining centres can be derived. For example, a Heckert large machine presented at the Open House in Chemnitz will replace the successful Heckert HEC Large Athletic series in the future, making its case with good reasons. For example, proven Heckert principles, such as rigidity and precision, continue to enjoy the highest priority and the movement sequences have remained the same. The advantage of the latter is that the effort involved in transferring an existing technology is limited. Operators of the previous Heckert HEC Athletic series will soon find their way around the new machine. They can also transfer devices and NC programmes without any problems.

When redesigning the Heckert large machines, the developers took the latest technical aspects into account. For example, the frame components – i.e. beds, columns, etc. – were optimised in terms of thermal symmetry. If the ambient temperature changes, they grow or shrink evenly in all directions. This is behaviour that is predictable and correctable. The chip fall in the area between the work spindle and the workpiece has also been further improved so that hot chips barely have the chance to transfer heat to the workpiece or the machine.

An important advantage of the new machines is the improved productivity. The decisive factor here is an increase in the diameter of the ball screws from 63 to 80 mm and a further stiffening of the structural components. As a result, the user can now achieve even higher cutting values, realise a larger chip volume and ultimately reduce the machining time. The machine has also become faster: Instead of 40 m/min rapid traverse, it now enables 50 m/min, resulting in shorter non-productive times.

In view of expensive floor space costs, the approximately 20 per cent smaller footprint is another interesting argument: This is mainly due to the repositioning of an energy chain, which allows the chip conveyor to be integrated deeper into the machine. Further detailed improvements: Structural changes mean that a payload of 20 tonnes is now possible, which opens up new part families and customer groups. The Starrag developers also redesigned the energy console at the rear of the machine. All maintenance-relevant elements of the machine have now been grouped together there.