Finite Element Analysis for Static Behaviour of the CNC Turning Machine Spindle

Abstract

This paper presents a method to investigate the characteristics of a turning high-speed spindle system. The geometric quality of high-precision parts is highly dependent on the performance of the entire machining system,especially by the main spindle behaviour. The machine tool main spindle units is focused on direct driven spindle units for high-speed and high performance cutting. This paper analyzes the static behavior for a turning machine spindle and presents some activities to improve the CAD model for such complex systems. The proposed models take into account the spindle with the detailed bearing system. The analysis was performed during the design activity and was based on Finite Elements Method. Starting from the 3D designed model, using FEM done by means of ANSYS analysis the structure stiffness was evaluated and, by consequence, the influence on the machine tool precision. The aim of this paper is to develop a finite element model of the machine spindle system and to use this method for design optimization. The 3D model was designed using the SolidWorks CAD software. The static analysis was completed by modal, harmonic response and thermal analysis, but their results will be presented in other papers.