Automation Optimizes Machining Time

Bosch Rexroth Corporation (Charlotte, NC) exhibited a broad range of automation products and systems for improving productivity and energy efficiency, as well as safety and training in machine tool and CNC applications at IMTS 2014. The drive and control company featured CNC platforms, advanced automation technologies and open programming tools to help optimize machining time and improve operational flexibility and precision production.

Visitors to the booth participated in a demonstration that showed the flexible programming abilities of the Open Core Engineering system. Booth visitors had their business card etched in metal on a specially-designed machine tool. Real-time machining visualization on a handheld tablet connected by wireless Ethernet demonstrates real-time machining monitoring, one example using the innovative Open Core Interface with the IndraMotion MTX CNC platform.

IndraMotion MTX is a family of machine tool controls that provide open, scalable, CNC platforms for cutting, forming and machining applications. The newest platform version features the multi-core hardware CML 85, which supports 60 parallel NC-channels and control of up to 99 axes (up from 12 channels and 64 axes). In addition, the machine builder using IndraMotion MTX can now take advantage of simplified wiring of safety devices by using CIP Safety on Sercos (CSos) with the IndraDrive and PROFIsafe over Profibus DP.

The IMS-I Integrated Measuring System for precise control of workpiece quality is an integrated measuring system incremental that combines highly rigid Rexroth Ball Rail and roller rail systems with an incremental length measuring system. It offers the measurement accuracy comparable to high-precision glass scales, making it ideally suited for use in external measuring systems on machine tools.

The company also integrates safety into IndraDrive platforms so movement is monitored where it is generated, enabling extremely short reaction times and simpler safety architecture. There are three layers of integrated safety for its drive and controls products under Safety on Board:

• Drive-based safety: The newest version of the safety-certified IndraDrive offers very fast response and up to 16 configurable safety modes (increased from 4 modes). The modes are configured in the IndraDrive based on mode selection; this can be done using either CIP Safety on Sercos (CSos), or via hard-wired safe zone modules.
• Distributed PLC safety: Rexroth’s SafeLogic compact (SLc) is a small programmable safety PLC with support for up to 2 Sercos interfaces. A safety system with up to 16 axes can be configured between the SLc and IndraDrive devices, using a common Sercos Ethernet cable with minimal wiring.
• Centralized PLC safety: Rexroth offers centralized safety PLC functionality with our IndraLogic XLC controller, IndraMotion MLC motion-logic platform and IndraMotion MTX CNC. Bus architectures supported include Sercos with CSos, which reduces wiring and safe motion programming time; in addition, PROFIsafe with Profibus DP is used for connecting safety I/O devices combined with normal Inline I/O.

The Sytronix FcP (frequency controlled pump drive) is an energy-efficient, variable-speed pump drive for use in constant pressure systems such as machine tools. It is available in the performance class 1.5-90 kW, and offers energy savings that range from 40 percent to 70 percent. In addition, the Sytronix FcP reduces average noise emission by up to 20 dB (A), has minimal or no cooling requirements and features a compact design to help save space.

Rexroth experts were available to discuss a wide range of products including electrohydraulic controls and systems; linear motion components and modules; assembly and equipment for lean manufacturing; and electric drives, motors, controls and HMIs.

Economical, precise, safe, and energy efficient: drive and control technology moves machines and systems of any size. The company bundles global application experience in the market segments of Mobile Applications, Machinery Applications and Engineering, Factory Automation, and Renewable Energies to develop innovative components as well as tailored system solutions and services.

Bosch Rexroth offers its customers hydraulics, electric drives and controls, gear technology, and linear motion and assembly technology all from one source. With locations in over 80 countries, more than 36,700 associates generated sales revenue of approximately 5.7 billion euros ($7.6 billion) in 2013.

In the U.S., Canada and Mexico, the Bosch Group manufactures and markets automotive original equipment and aftermarket products, industrial drives and control technology, power tools, security and communication systems, packaging technology, thermotechnology, household appliances, healthcare telemedicine and software solutions.

Bosch Rexroth Corporation, 14001 South Lakes Drive, Charlotte, NC 28273, Fax: 704-583-0523, www.boschrexroth-us.com.