BIG KAISER has introduced the RBX12 Air Power Spindle, a high-speed air-driven spindle that achieves a variable rotational speed of 100,000-120,000 RPM.
The air-driven spindle, produced by BIG Daishowa Seiki, enables existing machines to be cost-effectively upgraded to perform high-speed micro-machining in a normal machining center since this tool is driven by air supplied through a stop block or through the machine spindle. Since there is no rotation of the machining center spindle required, a machine tool spindle can be used without wear.
"Operating at such high speeds helps to improve machining accuracy, enhance surface finish, significantly lengthen tool life, as well as reduce wear on the cutting tool since it will be running at the speeds intended," said a company spokesperson.
High-speed operation also means that processing time can be reduced. In various trials, the RBX12 was able to reduce machining time by more than 300% because of higher rotational speed.
Due to its ceramic ball bearings and ultra-precise collet system, the runout accuracy of the RBX12 is high, which enables ultra-thin wall cutting. "The AA-grade Mega Micro Collet guarantees 1 µm runout at the collet nose, and the .004 inch collapsibility assures a near-perfect concentric clamping of a micro-tool shank," said the spokesperson.
"The RBX12 also minimizes thermal displacement in the Z-axis for top precision - constant at <.001 mm while a standard machining center spindles have up to .012 mm," continued the spokesperson.
"For micro-machining applications, the new RBX12 means that companies can get the most out of their existing equipment, achieving high levels of precision and speed," said Jack Burley, VP Sales and Engineering for BIG KAISER.
The RBX12 is available with BCV40, BBT30/40 and HSK-A63/F63/E32 interfaces, and models not requiring a stop block have a small body diameter of O32 mm (O1.260"). For further cost savings, automatic tool change is possible.
For more information contact:
BIG Kaiser Precision Tooling Inc.
2600 Huntington Blvd.
Hoffman Estates, IL 60192
888-866-5776 / 224-770-2999
bigkaiser@us.bigkaiser.com
www.bigkaiser.com