How Important is Spindle Power?

Consider these spindle attributes to make a choice that is balanced, usable and compliments your processes as best as possible.

by: John Miller, President Way Of The Mill

We are sourcing new machines as we head towards year’s end. As we narrow the list of candidates, we are stuck at a decision point between two machines, the biggest difference being the available spindle power. Half the team believes this is an important decision point, while the other half wants to focus on other attributes. How would you rate spindle power when it comes to evaluating a machining center?

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As machines tools continue to evolve, there is an inevitability that they will become more difficult to discern. The iron structures that support these machines begin to look the same, and they offer the same tapers, with the same spindle ranges, with the same controller options. This is why I always advise shops to look beyond the spread sheet, into intangibles such as build quality, service, ease of automation and more. However, the spindle is indeed the heart of the machine and an important decision point that deserves its own deep consideration.