Dealing with temperature variations to maintain acceptable tolerances of machined parts can rob your operation of productivity and profitability. That’s why Okuma developed its Thermo-Friendly Concept to both reduce heat generated in the machining process and to compensate for any remaining heat. 

The first step is to design machines to better manage deformation with what Okuma terms “thermally symmetrical structures.” This involves viewing the various machine components as individual building blocks, and designing covers and peripherals to eliminate hot spots.

Next, Okuma builds into its control system a Thermal Active Stabilizer (TAS) with two components: Spindle (S) and Construction (C). TAS-S monitors spindle temperature, speed and other conditions to automatically adjust and control spindle deformation. TAS-C uses temperature readings from strategically placed sensors and feed axis position data, to estimate machine structure deformation from ambient temperature changes. As a result, the system accurately controls the actual cutting point.

Okuma's Thermo-Friendly machines eliminate the time and money you spend warming up the machine. Plus, you don't have to spend as much time measuring and making manual adjustments to compensate for temperature changes. Thus it helps improve quality, save time and reduces the chance of operator error.

The Thermo-Friendly Concept is available on a wide range of Okuma CNC lathes, CNC milling machines, CNC grinders, 5-axis machining centers and CNC double columns. To learn how Okuma’s Thermo-Friendly machines can help your operation become more productive and profitable, contact Gosiger today.