Waldmössingen, 12/10/2024. Schwäbische Werkzeugmaschinen GmbH (SW) is strengthening its portfolio of multi-spindle CNC machining centres with the introduction of the new BA space3-22 two-spindle machining centre. This further development of the proven space series is designed for the precise and efficient machining of particularly large light metal workpieces, such as those increasingly used in the automotive and aerospace industries. Flexible, robust and wear-resistant, the BA space3-22 offers short machining times even for complex components.
SW launched the single-spindle version of the BA space3 in 2020. Since then, it has been used primarily in the field of e-mobility. To achieve even greater efficiency, SW's experts soon began developing the two-spindle version. This is particularly suitable for demanding manufacturing processes such as giga-casting or machining other complex components in the automotive and aerospace industries. With the introduction of the BA space3-22, SW is fulfilling its own claim to offer all machines in a multi-spindle version.
Increased productivity and flexibility
The BA space3-22 is currently the largest machine in the SW portfolio. Its independent horizontal spindle arrangement enables two machining scenarios: simultaneous machining of two parts by two spindles, or the use of both spindles on one large workpiece. This flexibility is particularly valuable in series production, where maximum machine utilisation is crucial. The benefits are clear: parallel machining significantly reduces production times and increases output. Markus Löhe, Aerospace Key Account at SW, explains: In a nutshell, two-spindle machines double the output. The machine can be used as a conventional two-person machine or, for very large components, it can easily be configured as a one-person machine with an even larger machining area.
Maximum performance from powerful engines
At the heart of the BA space3-22 are powerful linear and torque motors. In this combination, the advantages of both motor types are exploited to the full: linear motors guarantee very fast and precise linear movements, while torque motors provide dynamic rotary movements. This allows the machine to achieve maximum acceleration and minimises not only machining time but also downtime during tool change and positioning.
As the linear drives have no mechanical transmission elements, there is also less wear. This results in longer tool life and lower maintenance costs. Our two-spindle machines offer twice the productivity per unit area. The rapid feed rate of the BA space3-22 is 120 m/min compared to 70-80 m/min for the competition. The second spindle significantly increases the productivity of the machine and thus improves the throughput considerably," says Markus Löhe. In addition, like all SW machines, the BA space3-22 combines stability and precision through its intelligent design. The combination of box-in-box construction and a monoblock machine frame ensures thermal stability, reduces vibrations and thus enables precise machining of even large workpieces. Generous access to the loading side also facilitates the use of automation solutions such as robots.
Precision and flexibility in the manufacture of complex components for the aerospace industry
Users in the automotive and aerospace industries in particular will benefit from the dynamic system configuration and high precision of the machining centre. The BA space3-22 is designed for complex components," says Michael Kreuzberger, Product Manager at SW. In the field of electromobility, frequent tool changes often result in long non-productive times. The dynamics and dual-spindle design of the BA space3-22 save a lot of time. In the aerospace industry, for example, this machine enables efficient pocket milling with high precision.
The machine is not only optimised for standard processes, but also offers flexibility to machine demanding geometries (simultaneously). With the 2-axis swivel head, complex workpieces can be machined in five axes in a single set-up. This makes the BA space3-22 particularly suitable for machining large aluminium structures, for the precise production of demanding components for battery housings, structural components or components for aircraft structures. In the aerospace industry, the precision machining of wing ribs made from high-strength aluminium alloys with a strength of 500 MPa is a prime example of the demands placed on modern CNC machines," explains Markus Löhe. To achieve the required strength at the lowest possible weight, these components are often milled from solid material. The BA space3 can efficiently handle this demanding machining.
The BA space3-22 made its debut at AMB 2024. The feedback from these first presentations confirms the demand in the market,' concludes Michael Kreuzberger. With the BA space3-22, we offer a solution that meets the current demands of the automotive and aerospace industries for efficiency and easy scalability.
