The new CrankStar tape finishing machine series from THIELENHAUS MICROFINISH is geared to the demand for more compact engines and allows high-precision machining of crankshafts with narrow bearing distances. “Tape finishing” is an alternative to abrasive belt polishing for crank journals that uses microfinishing tape; rather than rubbing a rotating abrasive belt against a rotating journal, the abrasive tape remains stationary and is clamped against the journal as the crank turns.
The new Thielenhaus Microfinish tape finishing machines for crankshafts with the narrowest bearing clearances is offered in two models. With the CrankStar HP (High Productivity) and the CrankStar HF (High Flexibility), there is a flexible approach to finishing smaller crankshafts. These are narrow finishing units with a very large opening angle (80°), offering economical and safe machining of crankshafts with depth gauges of no more than 33 mm, which is needed to finish parts for compact, high-efficiency engines.
Also, crankshafts made of cast iron or steel with a tip width of 500 mm (HP) to 800 mm (HF) and a maximum revolution diameter of 210 mm as well as a stroke of up to 100 mm can be finished in one step or more. Crankshafts for engines with three to six cylinders can be processed without changing the set-up. Also, on the more standard surfaces, like main, lifting and fitting bearings, the front pins can be finished and the flange bores can be deburred as part of the single-step or multi-step process.
A highlight of the CrankStar HP is the optional decoupled loading system that allows for a main, time-neutral loading/unloading via an external portal. This helps to reduce the cycle time by up to 17 seconds. The saved time can be used as extended machining time, which may reduce the capital investment needed to achieve production capacity requirements.
The CrankStar series also offers an ergonomically designed tape-management system. A particularly ample belt capacity, various belt monitoring options and the accessibility to the workspace promote reduced downtimes. Tape end, tape feed, and tape tear monitoring reports imminent and unforeseen interruptions in the tape feed and ensure consistently good results. All tape rolls can be replaced from the front of the machine, meaning complete operation can take place ergonomically from just one side.
The CrankStar HP is designed for high output with short cycle times and, with a width of 2,000 mm per station, it has a highly compact design. The modular design allows all the processing stages to be displayed.
The CrankStar HF is designed for cycle processing and it can be integrated into flexible production lines.
The loading can take place via portal, robot or by hand into the machine. The standard new tape finishing machine is delivered with a particularly energy-efficient periphery.
Learn more at www.thielenhaus.us