HPMA-X with single probe configuration.
Renishaw will showcase its new tool setting arm, the HPMA-X, at EMO Hannover 2023. The engineering technology company’s latest launch will include high-accuracy tool settings and broken tool detection for large CNC lathes.
Key information:
- Compared to its predecessor, the HPMA, the HPMA-X includes a high-accuracy tool setting as well as broken tool detection to large CNC lathes.
- Additionally, Renishaw's new product includes a high-performance drivetrain to ensure precise speed control and collision detection.
- Due to the size of the arm, the HPMA-X includes the TSI3-X interface to ensure smooth motion control.
As the HPMA-X will be dealing with large CNC lathes, the arm needs to be longer, heavier, and more complex, which can negatively impact the smoothness and repeatability of the arm. To combat this issue, the TSI3-1X interface has been included, which will provide smooth motion control. The interface also incorporates four user-facing LEDs, which will provide real-time status monitoring to inform the user of any motion or system health issues.
Additionally, the system also includes a high-performance drivetrain, which includes a high-ratio 3-stage planetary gearhead and a digitally controlled brushless motor. This addition allows for collision detection and precise speed control.
“Our existing HPMA fulfils those applications which require an arm of up to 555mm in length. The HPMA-X is targeted at the growing market of larger lathes needing arms over 500mm and can be designed in many different configurations, up to 1000mm in length,” said Steve Petersen, Marketing Manager for Renishaw’s Machine Tool Products Division. “On these larger designs, our engineers have worked hard to ensure that the probe is presented into the working environment with exceptional repeatability.”
The HPMA-X also aims to aid productive and sustainable manufacturing. This is because the system reduces wasted energy, materials, and time, as it can predict, identify, and correct process errors before they even occur. Meanwhile, the automation aspect of the machinery allows manufacturers to operate machines 24/7.
“We are seeing more and more manufacturers looking to implement process automation in their factories. Having machines sat idle, awaiting manual tool setting tasks is no longer an option if you want to remain competitive. The HPMA-X provides automated tool setting and broken tool detection on CNC lathes and can enable lights-out manufacturing,” said Petersen.