Here’s Why You Need to Choose the Right Spindle for Machining Operations
CNC spindles are very important in achieving a high-precision machining experience. Spindles are very crucial to the overall cnc manufacturing, ensuring that end parts are manufactured with high efficiency and as accurately as possible. Today, spindle selection is one of the most overlooked factors in modern day machining. This is because when machining comes up, parameters such as feed and speed rates are often given the highest consideration. Choosing the right spindle, is however, just as important as selecting the right tool and running at accurate speeds.
How do Spindles work?
Spindle, which may be likened to the engine of the CNC machine, is the rotating axis of the device comprising of a motor, taper and shaft. The shaft is at the heart of the spindle, holding all the components which make up the spindle together. The taper in the spindle is where tool holders are installed. The spindle receives power in electrical form which causes it to rotate along an axis as directed by the accompanying CNC machine controller. Spindles are available in a wide array of sizes, each designed to meet varying manufacturing needs.
What are your options?
There are a number of spindles that can serve across similar and varying end uses. Most machine shops have high-speed spindles that can deal with metal and other rigid materials. There are integral motor spindles that have their motors placed inside of the spindle. These integral motor spindles can deliver up to 60,000 RPMs, making it very desirable and suitable for numerous applications. Running at this speed can however, impact the lifespan and long-term usability of your spindle. Integral motor spindles are held to disadvantage by the internal placement of the motor which may limit torque and horsepower.
Another option for spindles is gear or belt-powered spindles. These gear/belt-driven options have their spindle motors outside which means they are not limited by any compartment. They can achieve a higher level of power and torque than integral spindle motors due to the external placement on their motors. Belt-driven spindles are usually of lower speeds, often unable to exceed 12,000-15,000 RPMs. They are affordable and suitable for most machining requirements.
There are also cartridge and specialty spindles. Cartridge spindles are compact and easily usable with a wide range of materials. They are more plug-and-play like, allowing for quick and easy use with existing machineries. They are suitable for applications such as milling, turning and drilling, and are very good options where cost and value is a key factor. Specialty spindles are specially fabricated and engineered to meet certain tooling needs for a purposeful range of applications. In instances where machining requires some complicated engineering, specialty spindles are best used.
Why is it important to select the right spindle?
Because the spindle works with your tools, it is very important to know what type of spindle is best for optimal production runs. Selecting the right spindle will help you the appropriate tooling will make your work most efficient. It also plays a crucial role in avoiding tool breakage, chipping and deflection.
Torque and horsepower are two important factors in the selection of torque. When working with tools with large diameters, you will need spindles that have high torque and can run at lower speeds to help remove significant amount of materials. In contrast, for tools with smaller diameters, you will need to select spindles that can run at higher speeds and lower torque.
First Part CNC Machining Services
FirstPart is one of China’s leading manufacturing hub for Additive, CNC and Conventional manufacturing techniques. We boast of excellent in-house capacity, labor force and logistics while delivering exceptional value for money. Our array of services include cnc manufacturing, 3D printing, Rapid Tooling, Die casting, Rapid prototyping, Plastic Injection Molding, Urethane Casting, Aluminum Extrusion, Post-machining/Finishing services and much more.
