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Small-Footprint Grinder with Large Work Zone

Star SU’s easily configurable NXT 5-axis grinding machine gives manufacturers the ability to run small- and large-diameter wheels to sharpen straight and spiral gash hob designs as well as disk-, shank-, and helical-type shaper cutters, Scudding cutters, and a wide range of round tools.

Posted: January 6, 2020

Star SU’s NXT 5-axis grinder is capable of 15-in end work and 10-in-diameter parts using 8-in wheels and offers machine-centered wheel-changing capability with five storage locations. The compact machine sharpens straight and spiral gash hob designs as well as disk-, shank-, and helical-type shaper cutters, Scudding cutters, and a wide range of round tools.

At 6.5 ft wide by 7.5 ft long (including spindle/axis chiller) with a grind zone of 30.2 in x 19.9 in x 25.6 in (LWH), the NXT from Star SU (Hoffman Estates, IL) is the smallest footprint-to-work-envelope ratio on the market at 40.1, topping the closest competition by almost 2:1.

Whether you want to run 8-, 10-, or 12-in-diameter wheels for profiling or a 0.5-in wheel for polycrystalline diamond (PCD) pocket grinding, the linear CNC tool and cutter grinder has you covered. The machine can wheel change and probe up to an 8-in-diameter wheel; but, if larger is necessary, 10-in-diameter wheels with coolant manifolds and 12-in-diameter wheels without. Synchronous spindle choices of 20 hp or 38 hp and 20,000 rpm makes running wheel diameters of less than 1 in possible.

At the same time, with a part diameter capability of just over 10 in and maximum fluting length at just over 16 in, oversized work is also possible. The machine can be ordered with a 24-in tooth rail instead of the standard 17.3-in length. Travels: X: 19.7 in (500 mm), Y: 25.6 in (650 mm), Z: 29.5 in (750 mm).

Linear motors instead of ball screws eliminate backlash, friction effects, drive vibration, and contamination. Maintenance requirements are further minimized by Zanite Plus base, linear motors driving XYZ motion, direct drive torque motors on BC rotaries, liquid-cooled axis, and auto-lube grease system.

Customers get free updates of NUMROTOplus control software throughout the machine’s life. Options include automatic loading of 5-mm-to-32-mm parts with one gripper assembly and four-pallet capacity, CNC W-axis for travel of tool support options along the Z-axis, hydraulic actuated steady rest support, and extended capabilities to hold and regrind gundrills up to 48 in.

Star SU, 23461 Industrial Park Drive, Farmington Hills, MI 48335, 248-442-3137, www.star-su.com.