Portal milling machine's modular construction enables the specification to be tailored in order to optimise specific machining demands with high orders of geometric accuracy.
he modular construction of the Zimmermann FZ 37 portal milling machine enables the specification to be tailored in order to optimise specific machining demands with high orders of geometric accuracy and surface integrity. It is available in four or five axis configurations to machine a wide range of materials from aluminium to steel or cast iron. Available from Brackley-based StarragHeckert UK, the Zimmermann FZ 37 can be specified with an X-axis from 3000mm to 10m, a Y-axis between 2000 and 3000mm and the vertical Z-axis between 1000 and 2000mm.

A range of spindles with 28kW, 24,000 rev/min; 40kW, 24,000 rev/min and 20kW, 28,000 rev/min are available with a choice of controls supplied by Fidia, Heidenhain or Siemens.

Central to the high credibility machining capability of the FZ 37 is the construction using a floor-mounted, cast iron base with twin fabricated sidewalls and gantry fabrication that separate the workpiece from the moving gantry elements that carry the spindle.

Each axis is driven by Siemens Simodrive digital system with the option of linear motor or rack and pinion.

In each case, Heidenhain glass scales or for axes over three metres, steel scales are fitted with a compressed air barrier for protection against contamination.

Rapid traverse rates up to 50m/min can be achieved using the linear motor axis drive option to minimise lost time during positioning or, for instance, when performing a tool change.

The optional 15 or 30 position pick-up magazine is sited on the table at the end of the X-axis travel axis.

The 28kW and 40kW milling spindles use ceramic bearings which are mounted in a quick-change cartridge and on the four axis (3 + 1) milling head there is an automatic cutter-positioning axis.

Meanwhile, the five-axis version of milling head can be swivelled around the A and C driven axes.

The machine can be used for both wet or dry cutting cycles.