Heidenhain Probes Used in FANUC America Training Center

FANUC America Corporation has selected touch probes from Heidenhain Corporation (Schaumburg, IL) for use and training on their popular RoboDrills in their recently expanded CNC machining laboratory in Hoffman Estates, IL, that offers 16 different classroom courses in teaching end users about maintenance, operations and programming. The touch probes will be used for hands-on exercises in machining labs. These probes have an optical trigger mechanism that prevents wear on the probes and components, guaranteeing accuracy for long periods of time.

At this machining laboratory, students will have the opportunity to become familiar with these probes and the use of advanced automated probing along with the basics of machining. “We have used Heidenhain machine tool feedback devices, such as scales and rotary encoders, with our CNCs for a long time. The probe interface is straightforward and intuitive, so the students will learn a lot from their experience,” said Paul Webster, the engineering manager at FANUC America. “The custom screens that Heidenhain developed for our Manual Guide i conversational programming software will play a growing part in providing students with the experience of setting up and executing a variety of probing operations.”

The TS 460 workpiece and TT 460 tool probe are triggering touch probes that offer either radio or infrared signals. The TS 460 model also has a patented collision adapter that protects both the probe and machine tool spindle in case of a collision. Now in place at FANUC America, these probes are providing assistance with machine tool setup, measuring and monitoring functions in order to improve dimensional accuracy of finished workpieces. Heidenhain offers advanced application support for these touch probes.

“The cooperation with them has been excellent,” explained Chris Weber, the national sales manager of the Machine Tool Division at Heidenhain. “We have worked with them for many years, cross-training on our FANUC interface encoders, and are proud that they have chosen to partner with us on probing systems as well.”

www.fanucamerica.com, www.heidenhain.us