XR Router. All-purpose cnc machine with automatic tool chang

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The latest-generation XR Router series features industry-standard AC servo-motors and controllers, allowing customers to maintain torque at 100% until maximum RPM with a position resolution of up to 8,000,000 encoder positions per rotation, providing smooth cutting and very accurate positioning. The optimum drive system is chosen to suit each individual application based on required acceleration, torque and accuracy specifications. Moreover, in-built software filters provide for dampening of vibration giving smoother operation and allowing superior cut quality.

High precision is also guaranteed by an extremely rigid, fully-welded and machined steel chassis. ART has always used a fully-welded steel chassis since the very first machine. All external chassis members are fabricated from 250 mm hot rolled structural steel PFC channel. All cross members are made from 250mm/10in I beam (UB250) and are spaced at 500mm/20in centres to provide rigidity and stability.

The machine’s complex engineered gantry additionally contributes to extreme rigidity, while at the same time maintaining critical acceleration characteristics. The 400mm/16in high beam provides exceptional stiffness and the 750mm/30in long x-bearing mounts are fabricated from 10mm/0.4in plate steel to give a wide footprint and therefore a stable gantry. The afore mentioned high-power servo-motors that never slip as well as a helical-cut gear rack eliminates the need for flexible brackets.

Extremely versatile

The machine is suitable for processing a whole range of different materials due to an optional rotational and/or C-axis to support the machining of 3D objects, engraving on cylinders, and the use of saws, knives and cutting wheels. Combining the proven performance of its CNC flatbed routers with an additional fourth axis to run tooling suited to process insulated duct board, ART has developed a versatile all-in-one machine that automates the once very labour intensive cutting process of duct board panels. The machine now comes with re-engineered knives designed to cut 42mm/1.6in duct board, according to the new standards.

ART has developed a versatile all-in-one machine that automates the once very labour intensive cutting process of duct board panels.

Moreover, ART uses a unique two stage telescopic Z-axis that can give an extremely high Z-axis lift for extra-long tools for deep-cutting applications among other things.

For routing composite panels, plastic, timber and light aluminium sheets, ART offers phenolic matrix tables. Phenolic material does not absorb moisture and expand, and dampens vibration resulting in smoother cutting processes. The matrix allows the vacuum to spread evenly to all areas of the deck. T-slot decks are also offered by ART for heavy duty cutting in aluminium or steel using mechanical clamping.

Ease of use

ART uses a large touch-screen controller running advanced graphical software complemented by an optional wireless pendant. The pendant enables remote monitoring when away from the machine, so operators can stop the machine or override spindle speed and feed rates from elsewhere in the factory.

All software is developed by ART from front to back. Because the in-house software developers work closely with the company’s mechanical and electronics engineers, as well as ART’s own in-house CNC operators, ART has an extremely short development cycle time. This allows ART to respond to the needs of customers by developing processes to suit their needs.