Using Hydro-Pneumatic Accumulators to Increase the Operation Safety of Heavy Duty Vertical Lathes

Abstract

This paper presents the principle diagrams that can be used to manufacture hydraulic systems that can prevent the seizing of the circular hydrostatic guideways of the table in the case of heavy-duty vertical lathes, with over 4000 mm diameter. The proposed systems will provide the lubrication of the guideways of the table as long as this one rotates up to a possible stop caused by an accident. Lubrication is achieved even in the absence of the machine supply voltage because it is provided by systems that do not need electrical power to operate. The absence of hydrostatic pressure, even in only one of the hydrostatic pockets, caused by the breaking of a hose, can be detected and will trigger the safety system activation.