The Davenport Hybrid Machine represents a leap forward in the legacy of multi-spindle machining on Davenport platforms. Blending the mechanical speed and reliability Davenport Machine is known for with the precision and flexibility of an advanced CNC control. Its intuitive programming, robust control features, and digital-first design make it a standout solution for modern manufacturing environments.
Easy Programming and User-Friendly Interface
The Hybrid Machine features a menu-based, fill-in-the-blanks recipe interface that simplifies programming for operators of any experience level. This intuitive approach allows users to quickly take to the machine.
For CNC axes, the machine uses short, standard G-Code programs, with each axis programmed separately and triggered by cam position. This modularity keeps programs concise and manageable, further streamlined by custom G-Codes that reduce program length even more.
Each CNC axis can be toggled on or off with a single click during setup, enabling progressive setup operations and reducing setup time.
The large 21-inch touchscreen and plain language menus make navigation and adjustments straightforward. Operators can perform on-the-fly offset updates—changing part sizes during production without stopping the machine, a significant advantage for maintaining productivity and tight tolerances.
Key Machine and Control Features
The Hybrid Machine is built on a custom interface and control platform developed and maintained internally by Davenport Machine. This allows for seamless integration and ongoing upgrades to be developed based on customer feedback.
All software and control updates are rigorously tested on in-house machines and at partner sites before being rolled out, guaranteeing reliability and performance.
The machine’s revolving head and spindles are mounted on preloaded, angular contact ball bearings, providing exceptional accuracy and eliminating the need for thrust ring adjustments. This results in improved length control, reduced wear, and a longer service life.
The Hybrid boasts exceptional rigidity and precision, with cross slides riding on high-quality linear rails and ball screws, consistently holding diameters to within 0.0005” just with forming —without the need for shave tools.
Index times are industry-leading, as short as 0.4 seconds, ensuring high productivity without sacrificing quality. Allowing users to achieve the fast cycle times they are accustomed to, but on a high precision platform.
Lights-Out Machining and Safety Safeguards
The Hybrid Machine is suitable for reliable unattended operation (“lights out” machining). The control system continuously monitors motor load across all 17 axes, stopping the machine if loads deviate from preset limits—protecting against tool breakages or dulling.
Integrated third-party tool breakage detectors, as well as sensors for coolant, lubrication, and air pressures, further enhance safety and reduce the risk of costly downtime.
Stock depletion sensing and an integrated bar loader allow for automatic bar changes and uninterrupted production runs. The IEMCA NEXT 25 bar loader has helped many customers realize enhanced productivity gains, and in many cases run their machines 8 hours or more without an operator on standby.
How does the Hybrid marry CNC and CAM technologies?
The Hybrid Machine marries traditional cam-driven mechanisms with modern CNC axes. CNC operations are triggered by cam position, ensuring synchronization between mechanical and digital systems.
If a CNC axis does not complete its operation before the machine indexes, the system will halt, preventing errors and protecting workpieces
Feed rate control allows the entire machine to slow for monitoring, with CNC axes following cam position and spindle speed. This hybrid approach maintains Davenport’s hallmark high-speed indexing and efficiency while enabling advanced CNC functions such as single-point turning and threading.
Digital Adjustments Replace Mechanical Setups
Many adjustments that once required mechanical intervention are now digital.
- Cam work speed and index speed, formerly set with pulleys and gears, are now digitally controlled
- Spindle speeds can be changed digitally during the work cycle for optimal tool performance.
- Side working cams are replaced by CNC slides, which can all be digitally offset on-the-fly for optimal size and wear control.
- The pickoff spindle functions as a true sub-spindle, with a fully functional three-station tool block.
- All side working axes can be toggled off during setup for progressive set ups.
- Feed rate override feature allows operators to slow down speeds and feeds during machine set up; allowing you to check tool clearances and protect tooling investments.
- The tool post and center drive shaft have been replaced by individual CNC axis offsets, compensating for collet or work-holding imperfections.
- Mechanical threading attachments are replaced by servo-controlled units for tapping and drilling in all four end-working positions.
Comprehensive Support and Service
Davenport Machine provides extensive support with every Hybrid Machine purchase:
- Turnkey services
- Five days of on-site training at Davenport and an additional five days at customers facilities upon installation
- Ongoing assistance via email or phone with the Hybrid Support group via Hybrid Solutions support web portal and knowledge center
- Layout assistance, CNC programming help, and new feature programming
- Unlimited in-house training @ Davenport to ensure operators remain proficient and machines operate at peak efficiency
Conclusion
The Davenport Hybrid Machine’s CNC control system is designed for ease of use, flexibility, and high performance. Its blend of intuitive programming, advanced safety features, and robust support make it a powerful tool for manufacturers seeking to maximize productivity and precision while minimizing downtime and complexity.
The fast set up times and extreme accuracy the Hybrid has, thanks to Davenport’s CNC technology, have shown significant throughput gains for many customers. Contact us today and learn how the Davenport Hybrid is changing the game for manufacturers in many industries!
