Joining Machine – SFC 600

The thermal joining processes of EMAG are used to create extremely precise components for powertrains. The process is also suitable for workpieces that will be exposed to dynamic loads and high torques. Custom solutions are given priority when developing joining machines. Thermal joining technologies enable important reductions in component weight and an extremely high functional density.

Joining with the SFC 600 Joining Machine Uses Thermal, Force-Free Processes

The SFC 600 is an extremely productive joining machine for a range of applications, for example, combining cam shafts or small drive shafts. The fully NC-operated high-speed joining axis ensures fast processes.

Integrated with generators and heating systems manufactured by EMAG eldec, the SFC 600 provides the complete technical process chain for heating and joining from a single source.

The joining system’s flexible design enables the use of the SFC 600 in a wide range of production scenarios, from manual loading to completely automated line production.

Joining Cam Shafts using the SFC 600 Joining Machine

For over 20 years, EMAG Automation has been creating its patented thermal joining technology: The cam is expanded by induction heating so that it can be placed force-free on the shaft. This is always performed at a temperature that is precisely matched to the geometry and the material. The shrinking process begins by targeted cooling. The end result is a force-fitted lateral press assembly. The new SFC 600 joining system paves way for new possibilities for this technology – thermal joining of cam shafts up to 600 mm in length is becoming even faster and more flexible.

Rapid Component Change Possible

The solution is concentrated on high-precision, rapid NC axes with linear motor technology. On this basis, the whole production process can be regulated via the NC program. A main prerequisite for flexibility: For certain cam shaft types, a simple change of the NC program may be sufficient for re-tooling. The whole operator interface resembles the programming of a machine tool. All the data can be stored on the system. The switch from one cam shaft to another can be done within ten minutes. This makes the system highly effective particularly whenever frequent re-tooling is needed: Re-tooling with the SFC 600 is restricted to very few elements.

60 Seconds for Assembly

The joining process itself is timed flawlessly and very fast: The loading gantry picks up one or two shaft components and moves them to the two inductors for heating. Later, the NC-operated dual gripping system receives the two components and concurrently places them on the shaft as described. This makes it possible to assemble a standard cam shaft for four cylinders in just 60 seconds. With the SFC 600 joining machine, the process is quicker, more flexible, and easier to regulate.

Technical Data

Advantages

• Component sequence can be chosen freely
• Angle and axial position are freely selectable
• Better flexibility in production (process chain design, short re-tooling time, …)
• Joining precision parts without rework (for example, cams with negative radiuses) is possible
• Lower cost than traditional production processes
• Possible to combine components made from different materials

Workpieces / Technologies

Workpieces

Composite camshaft (joining)

Gear shaft (joining)

Technologies

Heat Shrink Assembly

Joining Machine – SFC 600

Picture 1 (The new SFC 600 joining machine from EMAG Automation is suitable for a variety of applications, e.g. joining small drive shafts or cam shafts.)

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Picture 3 (The flexible design of the joining system enables the use of the SFC 600 in a wide variety of production scenarios, from manual loading to fully automated line production.)

Picture 4 (The EMAG SFC 600 uses a powerful eldec induction generator. With their compact design and multiple control options (available: Profibus/Profinet interface), the eldec medium-frequency generators are ideal for integration into larger systems.)

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