A method for thermal characterization and modeling of large gantry-type machine tools

In this paper, a method specially designed for the assessment of repeatability and accuracy of large machine tools is proposed, along with results for a large gantry-type milling machine, recorded in a medium-term period. For this purpose, temperatures were recorded and a metrological frame was used along with inductive sensors in the tool tip, performing repetitive measurements. As initial results, origin, weight and influence of every heat source on this kind of machines were found. Afterwards, high precision measurements of thermal deformations were obtained. Mechanism of errors was found, discerning between main thermal error in the vertical Z-axis and secondary error in longitudinal X-axis towards out of the plane of the gantry bridge. Finally, a finite element model was developed which showed main thermal behavior identified experimentally. This will permit to make simulations of the thermal response of the machine and to choose machining strategies for future parts. Proposed methodology was therefore proved satisfactory for thermal characterization of this kind of big machine tools. This knowledge will make possible to improve thermal design of machines and to develop error compensation procedures. This method can also be applied on workshop conditions for recalibration purposes.