A Multi-Tasking Machine is the general purpose workhorse of a machining workshop, configured to complete several operations in one clamping. The Multi-Tasking Machine described here is built with a Heidenhain control and linear scales and specified for aerospace suppliers. multi-axis CNC machining with probing and through-tool coolant sits behind the numbers below, which are stated as delivered rather than as a best case.
The parts that matter most are the interfaces: bores, sealing faces, threads and mounting patterns. Those are held to ±0.008 mm, verified against the drawing, and recorded before anything is packed.
Specification
| Process | Multi-axis cnc machining with probing and through-tool coolant |
|---|---|
| Material / configuration | a Heidenhain control and linear scales |
| Size / capacity | spindle speeds to 15,000 rpm |
| Tolerance | ±0.008 mm |
| Surface finish | machined finish, Ra 0.8–1.6 µm |
| Application | multi-tasking machine for aerospace suppliers |
| Inspection | Dimensional report, material certificate, first article report on request |
| Lead time | 7–15 working days for samples, 3–4 weeks for production |
| Minimum order | 1 piece for prototypes, from 50 pieces for production pricing |
Manufacturing process
The operation sequence is decided before the first chip is cut: roughing to leave even stock, semi-finishing, then multi-axis CNC machining with probing and through-tool coolant as the final operation. That order is what keeps ±0.008 mm stable as the batch runs and the machine warms up.
Material is purchased against a certificate and checked on receipt, so the composition is known before any cutting starts. Work in progress is identified by part number and operation, and the finished parts are deburred, cleaned and protected before they leave the machine area.
Typical applications
Most of the work supplied in this category falls into the following examples.
- Housings and gearbox casings.
- Mould plates and inserts.
- Structural aerospace brackets.
- Manifolds and valve bodies.
- Jig and fixture bodies.
Quality control and documentation
Every batch is measured against the drawing with calibrated equipment, and results are recorded against the part number rather than kept on a scrap of paper.
Material certificates to EN 10204 3.1, dimensional reports and first article inspection reports are issued with the shipment where the application requires them. Calibration dates and measurement uncertainty are recorded alongside every result.
Ordering, lead time and packaging
Quotations are returned within one working day of a complete drawing package. Lead time is quoted from drawing approval, not from the date of enquiry.
Frequently asked questions
How many axes are needed?
Three axes cover prismatic parts. A fourth adds features around a cylinder and a fifth reaches compound angles and undercuts, removing setups and the tolerance stack that comes with them.
What does probing actually add?
Tool setting, datum finding and in-process measurement. Drift is corrected while there is still stock to remove, instead of being found at final inspection.
What is the minimum order quantity?
One piece for prototypes and first article work. Production pricing usually starts at 50 pieces, and repeat orders run on fixtures retained from the first batch at no extra charge.
To discuss multi-tasking machine requirements, send the model and the drawing with the quantities required. Feedback on manufacturability is given free of charge before any order is placed.
