Flexible Next Generation Gear Hobbing

In recent years, the gear market has experienced a trend towards outsourcing. As a result of this shift, many suppliers are receiving orders for the soft machining – wet or dry hobbing – of gears. Their criteria for investing in a new gear cutting machine are primarily quality, maximum flexibility, and maximum productivity with low procurement costs. The compact LC 280 α gear hobbing machine from Liebherr Gear Technology, Inc. (Saline, MI) meets these criteria and can be delivered in only three to four months. The unique LC 280 α can machine gears and shafts with a workpiece diameter up to 280 mm and a shaft length up to 500 mm – the range of the most typical machining sizes required for a gear. Its machine base has a very steep bed that prevents a deposit of chips. An optional complete stainless steel housing can be integrated to reduce the thermal influence of the hot dry chips on the machine bed to a minimum.

The redesigned hob head increases flexibility and productivity to machine workpieces up to a module of 5 mm. Spindle speed has increased by 50 percent to 2,250 rpm compared to the earlier model, while the shifting length increased to 200 mm and the maximum tool diameter increased to 150 mm. This means longer tools can be used to considerably increase tool life. Process times for certain applications can be reduced by up to 30 percent using indexable carbide insert cutters, and tool costs per workpiece can be lowered to significantly reduce unit costs. The fast internal ringloader system on the LC 280 α automatically loads and unloads workpieces up to 15 kg very quickly – as fast as a double-table machine and characterized by high flexibility and efficiency that dramatically reduce set-up and maintenance costs. Operators control the machine quickly and easily using the LH Geartec touch interface. It can be individually configured with simple user guidance to detect and eliminate faults and offer suggested values. It guides the user through the program step-by-step for process and retooling cycles.

Liebherr Gear Technology, Inc., 1465 Woodland Drive, Saline, MI 48176, 734-429-7225, Fax: 734-429-2294, www.liebherr.com.