Schaeffler expands range of machine tool components16 November 2023

?Schaeffler machine tool components

Schaeffler has expanded its range of machine tool components with new precision bearings, motors and gearbox ranges.

Two new YRTS-series axial/radial bearings in sizes 580 and 650 now complete the range. These rotary table bearings are double-direction axial bearings with a screw mounting facility and a radial guidance bearing. Series YRTS is optimised for use at high speeds and runs with low, uniform frictional torque across the whole speed range, making it particularly suitable for use in combination with high-speed torque motors.

Schaeffler will also now be offering its torque motors from the RKIB-series up to size 690. The range now includes air gap diameters from 298 to 690 mm.

With the release of the new L7 series in twelve sizes, Schaeffler is expanding its range of linear motors with peak motors of up to 24,300 N. As a result, Schaeffler linear direct drives can now be used to a greater extent both in handling systems and in the main axes of machine tools. Compared with the current benchmark, the water-cooled, high-efficiency L7 linear motors offer a reduction of up to 50% in the power loss with the same drive force or an increase of up to 40% in the nominal force compared to the current benchmark.

Additionally, Schaeffler has expanded its range of precision bearings and direct drives for machine tools to include two types of precision gear unit – precision strain wave gear series RT1 and RT2, and precision planetary gearbox series PSC. While the RT strain wave gears cover a maximum torque range of 28 to 484 Nm across five sizes, the PSC gearboxes start at 327 Nm, with the smallest gear size of 030, and end at 5000 Nm. Courtesy of the overlap in series between 327 and 484 Nm, machine manufacturers have the option of selecting the gearbox design and size that best suits their requirements profile.

Precision strain wave gears of series RT1 and RT2 are suitable for driving small swivel axes, for use in the A axes of milling heads, and for driving milling tables used in the machining of light metals, wood materials, and plastics.

The compact dimensions and hollow shaft of PSC-series precision planetary gearboxes make them suitable for driving both milling heads in the C axis and larger swiveling rotary tables. With the PSC range, Schaeffler now also covers drive solutions beneath the direct-drive swivel tables. In addition to demanding, dynamic five-axis simultaneous milling operations, other applications include precise five-sided machining with a highly cost-effective and precision drive that has been subjected to large-scale testing.

The single row cylindrical roller bearing series N10 and double row cylindrical roller bearing series NN30 (ribs on the inner ring) and NNU49 (ribs on the outer ring) are an established part of Schaeffler’s precision range. They are used in applications where precision is required under high radial load. One typical area of application is providing radial support for the main spindle. The N10 series has new internal geometry and a new cage made from PEEK (suffix PVPA1-XL). The optimised cage – like its predecessor, which was also produced from PEEK – is said to ensure low friction, a low noise level, and less strain on the lubricant. Further benefits include a longer grease operating life and higher limiting speeds.

The new N10 series is guided unilaterally on the outer ring, leading to a more rapid grease distribution cycle with lower maximum temperatures and to a lower bearing temperature level with smaller scatter. As a result, the non-locating bearing function is more reliable even in the highest speed ranges.

In hybrid cylindrical roller bearings of series N10, the rollers are made from a ceramic. In addition, the number of rollers is halved. This bearing variant is claimed to be characterised by even less friction and wear, reduced strain on the lubricant and considerably lower temperatures in the bearing. When these hybrid bearings are used, spindles and machinery are expected to achieve a considerably longer life and the systems are more viable. Ceramic rollers also lead to increased rigidity in both static and dynamic terms, which has a positive effect on the final machining quality.

Ben Spencer

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Schaeffler (UK) Ltd

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