SCHIRMER ALU BAZ

General

The Schirmer ALU BAZ machines are high-end, feed-through aluminum fabrication centres. Over 40 years of exclusive focus on this machine concept allows Schirmer to offer unique advantages in quality, precision, and maximum flexibility as a standard. Each cutting and machining center comes with exclusive technologies like servo-driven clamps and profile guiding elements, setting it apart from all other machines with an unmatched level of automation and an unparalleled modular machine concept.

Loading Magazine

Every profile is oriented to the ideal feeding position with servo-controlled raisers and perfectly supported by servo-controlled guiding elements, regardless of its shape. A profile length measuring system verifies the correct stock length, while a profile aligner checks dimensions to ensure the correct profile is loaded and compensates for any extrusion inaccuracies in milling or sawing operations. Various profile capacities are available depending on available floor space and the desired level of autonomy.

Profile Feeding

Profiles on the loading magazine are transported through the machine by a 4-axis gripper arm that utilizes advanced linear motor technology for high motion speeds with minimal maintenance. The gripper fingers can rotate 180° for optimal gripping. In Schirmer machines, the gripper is used only for transport, not for providing axial feed during milling, which contributes to both high feed speeds and superior accuracy.

Machining Units

The unmatched flexibility of the ALU BAZ platform is demonstrated by its available machining units. Regardless of the module, the unique Schirmer servo-controlled clamping system always provides optimal, close clamping, resulting in superior milling speeds, minimal vibration, and a perfect finish in a remarkably quiet operation. The primary machining modules are:

• O-Module: A 360° rotary turret with 6 spindles and an optional 20-tool rapid automatic tool changer.
• Orbit-C: A C-shaped rotary turret with 2 spindles and a standard 20-tool rapid automatic tool changer.
• 6-Axis Twin Module: A configuration with 2 independent machining units, each covering 2 sides of the profile with 2 spindles, allowing for simultaneous work on different sides.

These modules can be combined in a single fabrication line for applications that require both high volume and extreme flexibility.

5-Axis Head

The unparalleled modularity of the Schirmer platform allows for highly flexible configurations centered around an advanced 5-axis machining head with a rapid 20 seats automatic tool changer. This module brings the capability to perform compound angle cutting as well as other complex head and tail operations like rigid tapping, milling, and drilling in a very accurate way.

More economical yet highly capable configuration is available with a single 5-axis head that performs all cutting and machining operations. This setup still benefits from all the advantages of Schirmer’s exclusive servo clamping and guiding systems. For maximum productivity, the line can be configured with two of these 5-axis heads on opposite sides, allowing two spindles to work simultaneously on different faces of the profile.

Cutting & End-Milling Units

A wide range of cutting units is available, including front-feed and top-feed saws for straight cuts, miter cuts, and notches, as well as a vertical V-saw for dedicated 45° cuts. For end-milling, the system can be configured with a dedicated 3-axis end-milling unit (O-Module) or it can utilize end-milling disc cutters from the standard tool changer (Orbit-C), enabling 360° orientation for exceptional notching flexibility.

Unloading Magazine

The 4-axis outfeed gripper can grasp a finished part at any point and rapidly place it on the outfeed conveyor. It can be equipped with vacuum cups for extremely short parts. Inline outfeed with an automatic single or 3 sided label applicator offers longer autonomous operation. For a truly "lights-out" factory, Schirmer offers further automation with robotic part sorting and handling to achieve manless production for several hours.