Guideways / Structual Parts - West Solutions - Solutions for machine tools

Structual Parts

Structual parts, such as beds, columns, cross bars and bodies are the main components of a machine. They usually meet even the task of guiding process units such as headstocks, supports, carriages, etc. Structual parts can be a single-and multi-part, usually are manufacturing and transportation the limiting factors.
Structual parts accept the process forces and pass them mostly in a foundation. Larger parts (usually beds) are often not intrinsically stiff, but need a stable foundation to achieve the desired operating results. These structual parts are connected with high-precision alignment elements to the foundation.

Structual parts are made from the following materials:

• Steel (welded)
  

• Steel casting (GS)
  

• Grey cast iron (GG)
  

• Nodular cast iron (GGG)
  

• Polymer concrete
  

• Aluminium
  

• Carbon fiber-reinforced plastic
  

The selection of the optimum material according to the following criteria:

• Strength (plastic deformation, fracture)
  

• Weight (mass distribution, static and dynamic behavior)
  

• Modulus of elasticity (static and dynamic behavior)
  

• Damping (Dynamic Behavior)
  

• Residual stresses, creep (long-term accuracy)
  

• Thermal expansion / capacity (thermal behavior)
  

• Single / Series Production (model costs)
  

• Costs (raw materials, manufacturing)
  

• Constructive design options
  

• Resource availability
  

New designs of high-quality structual parts are often calculated using the finite element method and optimized.

Guideways

Guideways are important components the force flow of a machine and often an integral part of structual parts. They are responsible for the performance and the accuracy of the machine and must meet the following requirements:

• Low friction
  

• Stick-Slip-Free
  

• Little or no wear
  

• Seizure resistance
  

• Backlash free
  

• High stiffness
  

• Good damping characteristics
  

• High accuracies
  

• High travel speeds
  

• Low heat generation
  

• Shared lubrication options
  

• Easy installation and commissioning
  

• Maintenance free
  

Hydrostatic guideways at a cross rail

The guiding principles are divided into:

• hydrodynamic,
  

• hydrostatic,
  

• aerostatic,
  

• electromagnetic and
  

• roller bearing guideways
  

Hydrodynamic connecting rod bearing scraped

 Gears

Hydraulic / Pneumatic