Idea Bulletin

Custom Compound Slide Module for Drilling Machine Gilman assistance achieves low profile module with fast cycle times

Application

A manufacturer of products for the truck industry needed to increase their drilling capacity and flexibility and add CNC capabilities to their manufacturing line.

Challenge

The objective was twofold: Increase drilling speeds and eliminate dedicated drilling machines. Their challenge was compounded by the fact that multiple product production required labor-intensive manual adjustments and/or dedicated machines for each product model. The ideal solution would significantly decrease changeover times while reducing floor space requirements and maintaining a low profile. The low profile was necessary to have the unit integrate with existing equipment.

By sharing a common saddle base member the overall height was reduced by almost four inches.
By sharing a common saddle base member the overall height was reduced by almost four inches.
custom compound slide_2

Solution

The project was let to several custom machines builders but all declined to bid; the speeds and cycle times requested were beyond their design experiences. Having decided to design and build the unit themselves, the company called on Gilman for assistance. After consultation with Gilman , they selected hardened way slides to achieve the duty cycle required. “Build it strong and you can’t go wrong,” was the company’s design philosophy, and Gilman components were up to the challenge. The final design replaced several machines and setup times were reduced from hours to minutes.

custom compound slide_layout

Cost Savings

The first unit was so successful that seven more have since been constructed, achieving the company’s goal of lowering production costs and increasing market share.

Time Line

Total project time, from initial consultation to delivery of the components for the first unit, was 12 weeks.

Technical Specifications

  • HWS 12-15-30-SPD3-12 Slide:

    •    Telescoping metal ball screw cover

    •    32mm x 5mm ground ball screw - preloaded nut

    •    Saddle width 12”

    •    Saddle length 15”

    •    Base length 30”

    •    Travel 12”

     

    SPHWL 15-15-42-D3-24 Slide:

    •    Telescoping metal covers both ends

    •    32mm x 5mm ground ball screw - preloaded nut

    •    Saddle width 15”

    •    Saddle length 15”

    •    Base length 42”

    •    Travel 24”

Every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication but no liability can be accepted for any loss or damage whether direct, indirect, or consequential arising out of use of the information contained herein.

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