Multi-capability FANUC CNC takes Vertical Turning to New Heights

The Hessapp DVT 200 is a vertical turning centre with an integrated pick-up spindle and innovative transfer technology.  

 “It is very special,” confirms Uwe Göbel, Technology Sales Manager - Turning, at FFG Werke GmbH. “This two-spindle machine makes it possible to produce a component in its entirety from both sides.”  

Instead of two interlinked stand-alone vertical turning machines comprising an automation and turning station, only one Hessapp DVT is necessary to produce workpieces with top-level precision from two sides. The machine transfers a part to the next chuck in its clamped state without any loss in position, making it ideal for precision sectors that include automotive, commercial vehicles, rail vehicles, wind power and many others. 

“We have effectively combined two machines in one, which also means consuming less space at customer premises,” says Göbel. 

Dirk Jaenecke, who is responsible for controls within FFG Werke’s R&D department, adds: “In the present day, a standard turning machine does not turn heads. Modern machines must be able to undertake many tasks and vertical models are no exception. Working successfully with FANUC for more than 20 years, we’re extremely impressed with their products. For the Hessapp DVT series we’ve opted for the high-performance FANUC CNC Series 31𝑖B Plus CNC that is not just limited to turning operations, but can also control drilling, milling, thread cutting and grinding operations.”  

As well as the FS 31𝑖B Plus, the DVT machine series features the FANUC PANEL 𝑖H Pro display unit, an industrial panel PC that provides a powerful platform for custom developments. FANUC’s Safety Machine Operator’s Panel and MDI (Manual Data Input) unit complete the control solution for FFG Werke. Machine Operator's Panels can perform general machine operations such as moving axes manually in ‘JOG’ mode, switching between operation modes, starting and stopping programs, and adjusting the feed rate. The MDI unit is a keyboard-like device that allows the manual input of data into the CNC. 

The adoption of FANUC CNC solutions helped FFG Werke realise a new vertical turning centre for a new age of machining expectations. “FANUC’s co-operation and handling of this project means we mastered the necessary tasks to finalise the project together,” says Jaenecke. 

Göbel has the concluding remark: “FANUC always helps us meet rapidly evolving customer requirements regarding machine functionality.”