Improve productivity targets with power controls

There’s a lot to think about when improving productivity targets, safety and making your job easier. The power series controls from Fagor Automation Corp. are designed to enhance the performance and value of all CNC machine tools. It emphasise on large batch production, small production runs and prototype applications which requires a versatile, yet powerful CNC solution.

Todd Drane, Fagor Automation spokesperson, said, “We have always believed that our role in manufacturing is to constantly push the envelope of CNC performance with the clear end result of giving our customers a performance advantage. The new 8055 FL & 8055 Power controls do exactly that. We have improved upon the prior 8055 platform capabilities in every facet.”  

"We have always believed that our role in manufacturing is to constantly push the envelope of CNC performance with the clear end result of giving our customers a performance advantage."

– Todd Drane, Fagor Automation

According to him, both models now include an improved User Interface that incorporates a new ergonomic screen layout and colour design that utilises softer pastel colours. R&D research has discovered that these improvements contribute to improved operator concentration and helps reduce visual fatigue, including even a reduction in headaches. For operators who spend large amounts of time in front of the CNC machine, this subtle improvement would be noticeable in time.  

Todd added, “However, we maintain customer flexibility, thus for those who prefer the screen design of the previous 8055  models,  a  simple  change  of  a parameter and the CNC will revert to the old style.”

Another  subtle  difference  is  that we  have  brought  the  USB  port  out to  the  keyboard,  thus  allowing  for quick  &  easy  program  uploading  or downloading. Ethernet & RS 232 serial port communication capability remains the same for both new models. 

High-speed machining

Perhaps the most prominent goals with the new 8055 models are increased machining performance. 

During high-speed machining operations, the 8055 CNC is in control of assuring smooth & accurate tool path without  sudden accelerations or decelerations in order to obtain the most stable machining speed possible, thus avoiding part surface irregularities.

The 8055 CNC utilises advanced algorithms that are required in high-speed machining operations to obtain a tool path that is identical to the part programmed from a blueprint. Combined with its advanced calculating power, a large look ahead buffer (200 blocks) and a high speed block processing time (capable of up to 1 millisecond), it can produce very accurate parts.

For non-rigid machine platforms that tend to vibrate under demanding conditions (high speed & frequent direction changes), the 8055 CNC offers jerk control, which creates  a  smooth  gradual  acceleration versus sudden speed changes that can cause mechanical vibrations. Implementing this type of advanced feature provides a double benefit. On one hand, the mechanical stress on the machine is lower, yet on the other hand, thanks to the reduced vibration; the axes movements are smoother thus allowing a higher feed rate coupled with an improved part finish.

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