Erfahrungsbericht: UNION TC110
NCFertigung berichtet: Wie sich ein Retrofit in der Praxis bewährt: Unser Kunde gibt Einblicke in den Projektverlauf und die erfolgreiche Inbetriebnahme.
Hersteller
UNION
Modell / Steuerung
TC110 / HEIDENHAIN iTNC 530 HSCI
Maschinentyp
CNC- Horizontal- Bohr- und Fräsmaschine
Projektumfang
Retrofit, Transport, Geometrie, Wiederinbetriebnahme
A Retrofit Boring Mill Built for Heavy Components
When manufacturers process workpieces weighing several tonnes, precision, reliability and productivity are essential. One company specializing in large hydraulic components recently faced the challenge of replacing an aging horizontal boring mill without investing in an entirely new machine.
Instead of purchasing new equipment, the company chose a professionally retrofitted machine. The investment was significantly lower while still providing modern machining capabilities, improved automation and higher process reliability.
Choosing the Right Control Instead of the Most Expensive One
One of the key decisions during the retrofit was selecting a CNC control system that perfectly matched the machine and its intended applications. Rather than installing the latest high-end control with functions that would never be used, the retrofit focused on a proven solution offering exactly the features required for the production process.
This approach reduced investment costs while maintaining ease of operation and excellent machining performance.
Automation Increases Productivity
Compared to the previous machine, the retrofitted boring mill introduced a number of productivity improvements.
A fully automatic tool changer replaced manual tool handling, allowing the machine to complete complex machining cycles without operator intervention. Modern thread milling functions eliminated several conventional machining steps while reducing the risk of tool breakage—particularly when machining large threaded holes.
As a result, machining times were shortened, tool costs reduced and overall process reliability increased.
Designed for Multi-Shift Production
The retrofit also created the foundation for automated multi-shift operation.
With refurbished spindle assemblies, rebuilt gearboxes, renewed bearings and modern drive technology, the machine is designed for continuous production while maintaining high machining accuracy over many years.
The increased spindle utilization enables manufacturers to expand production capacity without investing in significantly larger machine tools.
Sustainability Through Retrofit
Besides reducing investment costs, retrofit offers significant environmental benefits. Reusing the existing machine structure saves considerable amounts of raw materials, manufacturing energy and CO₂ emissions compared to producing a completely new machine.
For many companies, retrofit has therefore become an attractive combination of economic efficiency and sustainability.
Tailored to Individual Production Requirements
Every retrofit project is adapted to the customer's production needs.
Control systems, automation solutions, tool changers, machine accessories and optional equipment are selected according to the required machining processes instead of following a one-size-fits-all concept.
The objective is not simply to rebuild an old machine, but to create a highly productive manufacturing system that combines the proven rigidity of established machine designs with modern technology and long-term reliability.
