Training machine for 5-axis skills

Available for demonstration in the new customer area at the company's Redditch factory, the latest CNC Profitrainer builds on the capabilities of an existing 4-axis version with rotary table by offering the option of an additional +30/-120° A-axis.

The fully configured, functional machine, which is powered by a single-phase electrical supply, is likely to be of interest to industrial training establishments, colleges and schools, especially as it is small enough to be transported between different educational centres if necessary. Larger OEMs and subcontractors may also choose to adopt the machine for operator training. There is a rental option, with payments subtracted from the purchase price if a customer later opts to buy the machine.

The realistic simulator is fitted with a full version of the Siemens 840D sl control and is now also available with Fanuc and Heidenhain equivalents. Having 200mm linear travels driven by servomotors at up to 15m/minute over linear rails, the machine is designed to mimic the operation of a full-size Heller machine tool realistically. However, it can also be used to provide training for any make of prismatic machining equipment in a safe environment.

The multi-functional spindle is new. Driven by a 9,000rpm/2.75Nm motor, it offers the options of an ER16 collet as well as manual and automated inserts for holding HSK25 tools. Even functions that cannot be performed on the training machine, such as operation of a tool magazine, can be simulated using control runtimes.

The facility, which is designed to tolerate operating errors, provides skills training without tying up a machine on the shopfloor which would result in lost production. Furthermore, the risk of a crash occurring on a real machine is eliminated, avoiding potential repair costs. Another benefit of the training unit is that its small size encourages trainees to try out new things.

Profitrainer is equally useful for mechanical and electrical maintenance courses, as the use of original components supports realistic handling of fault situations. Feedback from thousands of students who have used previous iterations of this unit over the past decade confirms the success of the concept.

Heller is a machine tool company renowned for its commitment to education. At any one time, apprentices account for 10% of its global workforce, a figure mirrored at the UK factory in Redditch. The company is keen to transfer this ethos to the outside world and ensure that students and shopfloor staff are also trained to a high standard.

HELLER www.heller.biz