The Uranos M Flexible Multi-functional Machining Centre is thefirst product following the merger of the SchleifringGroup's automation orientated companies, Schaudt Mikrosa BWFGmbH. Shown at the AMB machine tool exhibition in Stuttgart lastyear, the Uranos M is of pick-up spindle design. It wasdemonstrated hard turning and internal and external grinding anautomotive timing gear.

Cycle time was around 60s.

Operations onthe timing gear included rough turn the bore and fillets,finish-turn faces, finish grind the bore and then externallygrind corners.

The pick-up spindle processes components throughthree workstations which can be configured for turning, internaland external grinding (using an ID grinding wheel up to 400mmdiameter) or, grinding OD and ID and superfinishing.

Machinedesign features a cast mineral concrete bed, hydrostaticguideways, use of linear motors on the X axis and stable grindingwheel dressing using high frequency dressing spindle and diamondform roll.

Working range is 280mm swing diameter by 100mmworkpiece width.

Main spindle operates at 0 - 3000 rev/min anddelivers torque up to 300Nm.

X axis stroke (main spindlepositioning axis) is 1500mm at up to 60m/min and positioning iswithin a resolution of 0.0001mm.

Z axis stroke is 250mm at30m/min and 0.0001mm resolution.

CNC is Siemens Sinumerik 840D.The Uranos M machines are designed for placing together in closegroups in confined spaces.

A second machine is undergoing trialsat Dortmund University.

Series production will commence in early2001.