SKF and
DMG Mori have formed a joint development collaboration for the large-scale implementation of an SKF Insight super-precision bearing system for machine tool spindles. This collaboration will see SKF provide this bearing system and support DMG Mori in developing and validating this technology for its machining centres; the companies say they aim to push the performance boundaries of machine tool spindles while maintaining or even improving their reliability.
SKF has developed its Insight super-precision bearing system as ‘one compact and robust solution’ that monitors load, temperature, and vibration in a high-speed spindle, thereby allowing DMG Mori to improve lubrication control for enhanced bearing life and reliability while ‘facilitating high-precision machining and enabling higher productivity and an increase in workpiece quality’.
Annika Olme (pictured), SKF’s CTO and senior vice president of technology development, said: “We believe that close collaboration with our customers and partners is the key driver that boosts innovations. DMG Mori’s extensive industry experience, combined with our technical expertise, will unlock new technology benefits for customers and end-users.”
Scalable solutionsHe continued: “As an innovation partner, this collaboration showcases our commitment to intelligent and clean solutions and highlights our leadership in machine tools. We look forward to the joint development of more such viable and scalable solutions in future.”
Naruhiro Irino, DMG Mori’s executive officer, and director of its Advanced Technology Research Centre, added: “In collaboration with SKF, we are pleased to introduce a new cutting-edge high-speed spindle equipped with its Insight super-precision bearing system. This joint development allows for real-time monitoring of bearing temperature, load, and vibration during machining, thereby offering insights that were previously beyond reach.
“We look forward to accelerating our ‘Machining Transformation’ (MX) by integrating this SKF technology into our new ‘ERGOline X with CELOS X’ human-machine interface, setting the stage for the next leap in productivity and efficiency for our customers.”
This bearing system fits into the same bearing dimension as a regular bearing without the need for additional space, and the technology has been verified in a range of industries and applications.