Machine tool spindles

Abstract

This chapter deals with spindle technologies for machine tools. The machine tool spindle provides the relative motion between the cutting tool and the workpiece which is necessary to perform a material removal operation. In turning, it is the physical link between the machine tool structure and the workpiece, while in processes like milling, drilling or grinding, it links the structure and the cutting tool. Therefore, the characteristics of the spindle, such as power, speed, stiffness, bearings, drive methods or thermal properties, amongst others, have a huge impact on machine tool performance and the quality of the end product. Machining requirements differ greatly from one sector to another in terms of materials, cutting tools, processes and parameters. Nowadays, the spindle industry provides a large variety of configurations and options in order to meet the needs of different industries. Therefore, it is crucial that companies correctly identify their machining requirements and make well-informed decisions about which spindle to acquire. In this chapter, some of the main spindle characteristics that are the basis of a wellinformed decision regarding spindles are introduced and discussed. © 2009 Springer-Verlag.