Compact-Class Numerical Control

Siemens Drive Technologies (Chicago IL) offers Sinumerik 828D for compact class machine tools. Designed to address the needs of complex turning and milling machines in the job shop segment, the new control combines CNC, PLC, operator panel and axis control for six CNC measurement circuits in a single robust operator panel. Complete with intelligent kinematic transformations, an efficient tool management system and 80-bit floating point nano precision, the new control benefits from a range of performance features previously reserved for the premium CNC control segment.

The Sinumerik 828D is capable of full graphical, high-level language command and also supports ISO programming that is customary in Asia and the United States. With these options, Sinumerik 828D is capable of working with every type of CNC programming method used around the world. This opens the scope to machine manufacturers for global marketing of their products with just a single CNC equipment option.

The Sinumerik 828D is suitable for single-part and small-batch, as well as large-scale serial production. Programming time can be further reduced for small-batch production with the use of the ShopMill and ShopTurn graphical workstep programming system. For large-scale serial production, high-level language programming, in conjunction with programGuide for technology cycle parameterization, significantly reduces programming times.

With the introduction of the Sinumerik 828D, modern PC and mobile phone technology is now available to the compact class machine tools. Extensive online help animations and a new type of input prompting system with moving picture sequences provide the basis for exceptional user convenience. USB,

Compact Flash (CF) card and Ethernet ports enable high-speed data transfers onto storage media or integration of the control system into corporate networks. With its Easy Message functionality, the Sinumerik 828D offers production status monitoring by text messaging (SMS). Depending on the recipient’s profile setting, the machine will transmit information about workpiece machining status, report on the tool condition currently in use and send machine maintenance bulletins to a mobile phone, anytime and anywhere. These combined functions help keep machine downtime to a minimum.

The Sinumerik 828D can be configured for milling or turning applications. The milling version is precisely tailored to the requirements of vertical machining centers with additional machine components such as an A-axis for machining cylindrical workpieces or a swivel unit for machining inclined workpiece planes. Using Advanced Surface, the intelligent path guidance system, the Sinumerik 828D can also be used for the production of high-precision molds.

The turning version is specifically designed for single-channel slant-bed lathes. Alongside powered tools for face and outer surface machining, with or without Y-axis, the system also supports a fully functional counter spindle.

Because the turning and milling versions are tailored to the relevant machine technology, the system software is substantially less complex in comparison with universal systems. System parameters are pre-defined, reducing the work involved in commissioning to a minimum for the machine manufacturer. With Easy Extend, the machine tool builder is also offered a simple way of managing additional components such as indexing tables or bar loaders. Specialized CNC expertise is no longer required for mounting components in the field, representing a considerable saving in terms of service costs.

The Sinumerik 828D is available with a horizontal and vertical control panel layout.
Both control panel versions come in a choice of two CNC performance versions, allowing the Sinumerik 828D to be adapted to each user’s specific mounting site and individual machine performance requirements. Its minimal dimensions allow the new Sinumerik CNC to be easily integrated into even the most compact machine designs. Despite the diminutive size of the control, the high-resolution 10.4" color TFT display and full QWERTY keyboard make it extremely user-friendly.

The structural design of the CNC, a unit comprised of a tough and wear-resistant die cast magnesium control panel, CNC keyboard and CNC electronic circuitry, is extremely robust and features only a minimum number of interfaces. The new CNC is maintenance-free with no fans, hard drive or backup battery.