CNC machining center for the timber industry

Computer controlled automation is becoming increasingly important for production technology. Even in the wood processing industry, CNC ("computerized numerical control") machines are finding wider use. These employ the on-board computer to perform all control functions to execute the machining processes. They represent complex and integrated CNC machining centres, which execute the various machining steps on the workpiece secured into a workpiece clamp. Turning, sawing, milling, drilling, sanding or gluing – all these are performed on the wood using programmed tool motions. Conventional control elements, such as foot and hand levers or hand wheels are eliminated. The control motions are instead performed with the computer keyboard or a mouse click, while the functions and operation are monitored with the monitor. The computer controls the machining centre with the data entered to execute all feed motions and clamping processes. Manual intervention by the operator is no longer required. Using a CNC machining centre, the manufacturing operation can attain significantly higher machining accuracies and machining speeds. The frequency of defects and the risk of malfunctions is reduced. Moreover, CNC machines are highly flexible using text or graphics-based reprogramming interfaces, and can be modified with ease to accommodate the individual needs of the specific workshop. CNC technology generally establishes a close link to the design-engineering department, which can use CAD applications to directly develop and implement programmes for the CNC machine.

Due to their highly flexible uses, CNC machines are becoming increasingly indispensable for wood processing operations - for industry and workshops alike. A growing number of companies are upgrading to CNC machines in an effort to confront market demands and cost pressures. CNC machining centres are in use particularly when various wood species need to be machined, frequently also in combination with other materials, such as plastics or non-ferrous metals. Solid wood or wood materials, such as plywood, particle board or MDF panels, can be milled (CNC routers), sawed or sanded automatically and in series production. This permits the use of CNC machines to produce construction elements (doors, windows, etc.), for solid wood processing (furniture, interior design), and for panel machining. The use of CNC wood processing machinery even results in highly satisfactory and cost-effective outcomes for the production of intricate musical instruments.

The tool changer in the machining unit allows CNC machines to execute a variety of processing sequences. The tool can be changed in the background while the processing sequence is completed, facilitating time savings. Since most processing steps remove material in the form of chips, these chips are permanently vacuumed from the CNC machining centre during the process. The following are specific examples of machining processes that can be used:

CNC machining centres primarily employ e-chains®, e-tubes and igus® PVC cables. Because the dimensions of CNC machinery for the wood industry differ greatly, and are generally based on the size of the wood pieces to be processed, these three igus® product groups are requested in many versions.
 

E2 and E4 e-chains® are used most frequently. But small CNC machining centres also use single and two part E2 mini and E2/000 chains. Various chain types are typically in use, since the individual travels to supply the X/Y/Z axis and the vacuum fixture with energy and air feature greatly differing travel lengths and fillings. The Z axis typically needs several energy chains®, since these usually involve several applications. Each vacuum fixture uses one energy chain® (primarily filled with pneumatic hoses). This can either involve installing e-chains® on the machine exterior or within the machine bed for protection.
 
E2 e-tubes are a particularly suitable candidate for use in wood processing CNC machinery, since they provide effective protection against chips. By covering the cables, they are also visually very appealing due to their uniform appearance. They are easy to assemble, cost-effective, while their good ratio of inner to outer dimension facilitates a very space-saving installation into CNC machining centres.
 
The twisterband is used when CNC machines need special rotational motions in confined spaces, such as for edge cutting. The twisterband facilitates a process-capable energy supply to a rotating milling spindle without wear and the need for maintenance intervention. In comparison to slip ring solutions, twisterband solutions are more cost-effective overall, have less wear and require less installation space.
 
All e-chains® primarily have two advantages in comparison to conventional PMA hoses for CNC machines: They are visually more appealing and provide a "clean" solution for the energy supply system. The machine operator is no longer distracted by freely hanging PMA hoses.

chainflex® PVC cables are particularly well suited as fillings for e-chains® on CNC machining centres. These are used for the interior and are not exposed to contact with oil. They are primarily used in unsupported configurations and do not need to address specific loads. chainflex® PVC cables are therefore a very good and cost-reducing alternative as replacements for competing cables with PUR or TPE cables in CNC wood processing machinery. CA PU hoses are also used in addition to PVC cables.

igus® therefore provides an assortment of customised energy supply solutions for any CNC machining centre. However, igus® not only supplies e-chains®, cables and bulk connectors, but also harnessed and fully integrated systems, such as readycable® or readychain®. These complete systems consist of ideally matched components and represent the best possible solution for CNC wood processing machinery. Other igus® products are available in addition to energy supply systems. For machine doors, we recommend drylin® linear plain bearings, which compel with their smooth, maintenance-free and lubricant-free travel. Due to their dry-running properties, they are particularly dirt-resistant and will work trouble-free even when exposed to large chip volumes. We invite you to get a first-hand impression of the quality and product variety supplied by igus® GmbH at one of the trade fairs for the wood industry, such as LIGNA, Xylexpo, WoodMac China, CIFM/ interzum Guangzhou.

Already implemented customer applications