G7 5-Axis HMC for Aerospace Grinding Applications

The G7 iGrinder 5-axis horizontal machining center from Makino offers a flexible, single-platform solution for grinding, drilling, and milling of aerospace blades, vanes, turbine disks, and other complex grinding applications. Its multifunctional configuration paired with 5-axis capabilities enables aerospace manufacturers to eliminate setups, work in process, stack-up errors, and fixture costs. It also simplifies the manufacturing process with NC-controlled intermittent dress.

Similar to Makino’s G5 5-axis horizontal machining center, the G7 employs a 12,000rpm HSK-63A spindle capable of handling tough-to-cut materials, such as Inconel. The machine provides X-, Y-, and Z-axis travels of 690mm x 650mm x 730mm, respectively, accommodating workpieces with a maximum diameter of 535mm. This ability enables machining of parts one size larger than the G5, such as super-heat-resistant jet engine parts, curvic couplings, and vanes (NGV). Its infinite C-axis rotation and maximum B-axis rotation of 270° offer full access to three-dimensional parts for single-setup production capabilities.

A unique 2-axis Programmable Coolant Nozzle (PCN) lets the G7 accommodate variations in wheel diameter and changes in cutting direction while maintaining ideal coolant flushing conditions. It also allows for intermittent rotary dressing, an NC-controlled, electrically powered feature that trues the wheel to reestablish profile geometry on the cutting wheel. Combined use with the standard 60-tool capacity automatic tool changer enables continuous operation to be performed, maximizing throughput.