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Transfer Center Advantages a single transfer center can replace multiple machining centers

In a traditional machining center, the work piece is clamped in a fixed position and the tool is loaded for machining by the tool changer in the main spindle. By contrast, in a transfer center the components can be (milled, drilled, threaded etc.) processed with just one set-up. The processing method of the work piece is therefore the opposite than in a traditional machining center. Work pieces are automatically clamped into position and are then moved, controlled by the CNC, from one tool to another. By this process, multiple work pieces are often machined simultaneously.

It thereby also reduces floor space, energy, servicing and labor requirements. The total costs (TCO) can be reduced significantly with this technology. With fixed-position spindles and by implementing special tools, you can achieve the highest levels of accuracy.

HCX 2PLUS Automation

Smart Production flexible production of small quantity with optimized conversion time

ANGER MACHINING has developed a solution that opens new possibilities for different workpieces with a lot sizes from 10.000 pieces. With ANGER 2PLUS, a new system concept was introduced to the market, which allows considerably greater variability. It allows the flexible production of small quantity with a significantly reduced conversion time thanks to the innovative "SmartFix" zero point clamping system

TCO Saving

Taking the whole product life cycle into consideration, the ANGER Machining systems scores well with its total costs (TCO) in many application areas, which are by far the lowest compared with other solutions.

Shorter cycle times through smarter technology

In a MC the machining time is influenced by the tool change time. This is between 2 and 6 seconds per change (chip-to-chip time) depending on the quality and cost of the tool changer. This means that the tool change operations account for 60-70% of the total machining time; there are also several re-clamping processes – normally, a work piece must be processed in several set ups with a traditional machining center due to the number of operations.

Main processing time reduction thanks to flexible tool design

The ANGER multi-spindle heads allow for the simultaneous employment of multiple tools, enabling productive simultaneous multi-machining. HF spindles designed specifically for the task at hand, allow for very fast processing speeds.

The tool design is not limited by the machine concept. So not just the secondary but also the main processing times are markedly reduced.

High precision and process reliability

This machine concept allows for process reliable position tolerances of 0.01mm, with diameter tolerances of around IT 5 and roundness values of up to 0.002mm. The tool remains in the exact same position in the tool holder.

The technology enables the work piece to be fully machined while it remains in one position. A work piece can be machined on up to six different sides while clamped in one position. Automatic loading, directly into the clamping fixture: this reduces clamping and manual positioning errors.

  • high concentricity and low imbalance due to fixed tools
  • no chips lodged in the tool holder: no tool change with the productive transfer center models
  • high coaxiality: As tools are positioned on both sides, the work piece does not need to be rotated. Tool change errors are avoided.
  • very even finish by using larger cutter heads
  • increased tool lifespan and re-usability due to fixed spindle positioning
  • high thermal stability of the processes due to a 2-circuit cooling system

High availability of the transfer center technology

Compared with traditional machining centers, the technology scores well with a high, above-average machine availability. In a transfer center, there are fewer moving parts, fewer controlled axes, fewer clamping devices or pumps the fundamental architecture of the machine makes it substantially more stable. Many components are designed with high-productivity use in mind and are made according to the highest quality standards.

Lowest possible running costs thanks to high machine efficiency

Compared with traditional machining centers, ANGER transfer centers score highly with substantially lower running costs. Especially in cutting-edge production plants, the question of saving production floor space is becoming ever more pertinent. Transfer centers achieve the same output as two to five traditional machining centers, and they manage this on just 30 to 50 percent of the floor space.

This technology brings down

  • energy costs
  • labor costs
  • servicing costs
  • replacement parts costs
  • quality assurance costs (measurements etc.)
  • tool costs (tools serviceable for longer)
  • parts logistics costs - there are fewer interconnected machines which means fewer complex interfaces and a reduction in the automation costs

Work pieces can be fully processed with just one set-up

In a transfer center the components can be processed with just one set-up. This results in additional advantages, which can positively affect the running costs:

  • no washing/handling between set-ups
  • reduction in set-up and configuration
  • reduction in waste (errors in clamping, warm running, handling, etc.)
  • reduction in work piece measurements
  • shorter cycle time
  • lower logistics costs
  • high processing capacity