AFC on the H&H (iTNC530&640) controls, that is, how to reduce the machining cost on your machines

Part of our everyday life is the struggle for the minutes. In the metal-cut world, it means that we would like to cut the machining time continually to reduce the machining costs. Perhaps not all of us know, but on the DMG milling machines, there is a function that guarantees the reduction of the machining time by a minimum of 10 per cent.?This is the AFC (Adaptive Feed Control) function (Heidenhain SW. option: 45). This function is free to access on all DMG milling machines. In addition free of charge.

During the adaptive feed control, the TNC automatically varies the feed rate, depending on the current spindle power consumption.

It is applied in two steps.

1. Teach-in process:?The spindle power required for each machining step is to be recorded in a teach-in cut and saved by the TNC in a file belonging to the part program.
2. Control process: When each machining step is started, the TNC varies the feed rate so that it remains within the limits defined before.

This makes it possible to avoid negative effects on the tool the workpiece, and the machine that might be caused by the changed cutting conditions.

Cutting conditions are influenced particularly by:

• The tool wear
• The fluctuating cutting allowance that occurs especially with cast or forged parts
• The fluctuating hardness caused by material flaws

The adaptive feed control (AFC) offers the following benefits:

• ?Machining time is shortened.
• The tool is monitored and prevent further damages after the tool breaks or is worn out.
• The timely feed rate reduction and shutdown responses help to avoid the machine overload so the machine’s mechanical elements will be protected.
• It may be combined with the MPC function too, which provides even higher process safety. (only for DMG machines)

Don't hesitate to test and apply it! It is worth it!