Heller will present the new generation F 6000 machining centre to international trade visitors for the first time at next month’s EMO Hannover 2023, taking place 18-23 September. The five-axis machine with head kinematics has been designed from the ground up for flexible series production and like all Heller machines, sets a benchmark for cutting performance and precision.

Other highlights include free chip fall, short idle times, optimum automation capability and compatibility with the H and FP series for a wide range of workpieces. The F 6000 also excels with first-class equipment and expandability with technologies such as mill-turn, interpolation turning or power skiving. The team led by Dr Manuel Gerst, Heller’s head of development, kept a close eye on these areas, as well as consistent standardisation and the use of key components ‘Made by Heller’.

Highlights of the new generation include the completely redesigned swivel heads and the new integrated motor spindles specially developed by Heller. The spindle units deliver the highest levels of precision, dynamics and cutting performance for five-axis machining.

For combined milling and turning operations, the machine is equipped with the optional Mill-Turn function, in which the high-torque DDT (Direct Drive Turning) rotary table plays a key role. In line with the trend towards complete machining, this eliminates the need for re-clamping on separate turning machines. The results are improved workpiece accuracy and significantly reduced cycle times, especially for series products. The pallet changer is included as standard as the first level of automation. The new ‘Automation ready’ option enables easy integration of the Heller rotary pallet storage (RSP) and Heller’s standardised linear magazine solutions at a later date.

To ensure that all of the above benefits are maximised in day-to-day production, Heller’s design engineers have focused on clear and easy operation, as well as good accessibility to all work areas. The new Siemens Sinumerik One control fitted as standard and the convenient control unit in panel design with 24in touch screen make operation easy. At the same time, increased access to the work area and the optional new ‘Setup-Assist’ make it easier to set up processes on the machine.

At the heart of Heller’s trade show appearance at EMO will be 360deg Performance – a holistic view of the requirements of modern production. To achieve this, the company focuses on five solution areas. In addition to the F 6000, Heller will be presenting products for the digitalisation of production, a comprehensive range of services as well as innovative manufacturing processes and technologies for complete machining on a single machine.