An automatic spindle-growth compensation system has been developed and installed on a numerically controlled lathe, equipped with a machine tool control unit, at the Oak Ridge Y-12 Plant. An air gage was selected to continually monitor spindle growth and supply a proportional electrical output signal through interface electronics to the lathe control unit.nTest results demonstrated that:(1) uncompensated spindle growth will have a direct effect on the length dimensions of a workpiece, and (2) the system will maintain the carriage in its programmed position relative to the spindle within ± 100 microinches over a six-mil range of spindle growth.
展开▼
