In order to maintain consistently tight tolerances on Hardinge Super-Precision cnc lathes the machine must be at a stabilized temperature and the temperature must be maintained. This is especially important when live tooling and Y-axis features are used in production on a component and any warm up programs should incorporate these functions as well. When dealing with thermals, keep in mind that thermal time constants (ttc’s) should be taken into account. Slow ambient temperature changes have slow gradual effects on the machine due to the “ttc” of the machine base. These changes are oftentimes mixed with tool wear and at times are not singled out. With the live tooling and Y-axis features, heat is generated by the live tool system which may transfer into the Y-axis slide assembly. The Y-axis slide assembly has a very quick “ttc” rate and if the machine sits idle for short periods of time, thermal migration may occur.
Thermal Compensation
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