Studer Universal Cylindrical Grinding Machine Streamlines Performance

Studer’s latest generation of its FavoritCNC features a modernized CNC control (FANUC 0i-TFP), software and smart automation capabilities. Due to the new automatic operating door and loader interface, users can now automate their production themselves. 

Further optimizations have been made regarding its operation with a view to sustainability and efficiency, and in ergonomics for easier and safer operation. For example, the simple grinding wheel changing aid and park position for the tailstock are featured within the machine (optional). The new features also include the machine base with a larger distance between the X guideways for even greater wheelhead stability, a resource-saving belt spindle system, the digital display of the swivel angle on the manual B-axis and the optional QuickSet function for fast re-tooling.

The new FavoritCNC features two wheelhead variants to choose from: a fixed wheelhead for productive external grinding (manual positioning 0/15/30 degrees) or a universal wheelhead for external and internal grinding (grinding in one clamping, manual swivel 2.5-degrees Hirth coupling). There are also numerous configuration options, such as a fixed or swiveling worktable, or options such as measuring and balancing systems, grinding detection and longitudinal positioning. This means the machine can also be subsequently retrofitted for different grinding tasks and production conditions.

The FavoritCNC is said to provide optimal interplay of hardware and software, resulting in a machine that contains high-quality components and modern, reliable grinding technology. For example, the workhead, grinding spindles, guideways and drives meet the high-performance standards of Studer’s premium segment. The machine bed is made from the company’s own Granitan S103 mineral casting with its optimal damping and thermal properties.

The FavoritCNC is designed to be easier to operate via a 10.4" flat screen and an ergonomic manual control unit close to the grinding process. In addition, the internally developed and optimized StuderPictogramming and StuderGrind grinding software provide modern digital solutions that enable even complex grinding processes to be set up and controlled intuitively. On the new FavoritCNC, it is now possible to grind non-circular forms and threads with StuderThread and StuderForm. Due to the machine’s digital capabilities, even employees with little knowledge of CNC grinding can quickly achieve high-quality results, according to the company.

With the new conventional grinding mode, the machine is also capable of manual grinding. This enables users to efficiently produce high-quality ground workpieces without programming knowledge, easing the switch from a conventional machine to a CNC.

“With numerous new features, optimizations and automation capabilities, the FavoritCNC is a future-oriented, economical solution for the external and internal cylindrical grinding of small to medium-sized workpieces in individual and series production. Both for high-quality contract manufacturing and in-house production,” says Sandro Bottazzo, CEO at Studer. 

Key specifications of the FavoritCNC include:

• Distance between centers: 650/1,000 mm (25.6"/39.4")
• Center height: 175 mm (6.9")
• Maximum workpiece weight: 80/120 kg (176/264 lbs)
• Maximum grinding wheel diameter: 500 mm (20")
• Short processing time thanks to complete machining (in one clamping)
• Streamlined interaction between hardware and software
• Intuitive, user-friendly, efficient operation
• Optimal accessibility to the grinding area
• Ecological performance due to targeted measures for lower energy consumption and sustainable use.

Hardware:

• Wheelhead that can be used for external and internal grinding (machining in one clamping)
• Two variants to choose from: fixed wheelhead with manual positioning (0/15/30 degrees) or optional universal wheelhead with grinding wheel on the right and internal grinding (optional) with manual swiveling 2.5-degrees Hirth
• Fixed table or swiveling table (with a maximum of 8.5 degrees)
• Granitan S103 mineral cast machine base
• FANUC 0i-TFP machine control system
• Digital display of the swivel angle
• Modern measuring system and sensor technology
• Automatic door
• Ergonomic manual control unit for setting up close to the grinding process.

Software:

• Simple programming due to StuderPictogramming
• StuderGrind programming software (optional) for creating grinding and dressing programs on an external PC
• StuderForm (optional)
• StuderThread (optional)