A major supplier of aerospace parts in Italy is counting on a Starrag-developed flexible manufacturing system (FMS) to deliver exceptional machining rewards and reduced piece-part costs. Once commissioned, the four-machine, minimally-manned automated solution will operate around-the-clock to meet rising demand for aero-engine components.

Based on a quartet of Heckert HEC 500 X5 multi-axis machining centres, each featuring a five-axis trunnion-type table, the FMS will be served by an integrated pallet system and a centralised tool storage facility that will house 2000 tools to cover all eventualities in the single set-up, multi-task machining of the family of parts.

In addition to highly efficient cutting and cycle times, the Heckert machining centres will also ensure high-accuracy cutting – to within 2-3 µm – of the titanium and high-alloy steel workpieces which range in size up to 500 x 500 mm.

These systems may contain varying Starrag Group machines plus the integrated technologies of, for example, workpiece handling/holding and transport, cell control and tool storage systems, as well as complementary processes such as grinding, deburring, component cleaning and finish inspection.

In this case, the HEC 500 X5 machining centre was the optimum choice in terms of specification and performance. Not only does the machine’s XYZ envelope of 1000 x 800 x 1000 mm (and 800 kg capacity 500 x 500 mm pallets) meet all workpiece size demands, but the up to 82 kW/1500 Nm/15,000 rpm/65 m/min (rapid traverse rate) spindle also provides the required power and cycle time capabilities. Additionally, the machine’s B axis can rotate 360° at 80 rpm, while the A (swivel) axis operates at -45° to +91° at 15 rpm to enhance the machine’s multi-axis capabilities.
For further information www.starrag.com