Understanding the Importance of Foundations for Precision Machine Tools

ELK GROVE VILLAGE, IL, May 23, 2022 - 

Would a contractor ever build a house without a solid foundation? The answer is a resounding no. Without a solid foundation not only will the home be unstable, but will likely bring in unwanted outside elements. The same goes for a machine tool, with the foundation acting as a building block on which it is placed.

The performance of a machine tool largely depends on the foundation on which it sits. Just like a building needs a solid foundation for stability, the stability of the process of your machine tool is dependent on the behavior of the foundation. There can be no flaws or compromises, particularly with precision machine tools when high accuracy and specific surface finish are required.

A Key Element to Maximum Performance

When a shop purchases a machine tool they undoubtedly have certain expectations. In order for the machine tool to meet full capabilities and deliver profits year after year, the foundation on which the machine tool sits has been documented as a key element to ensure proper accuracy and performance.

Building and designing a good foundation is critical to maintaining a consistently high-quality workpiece over a long period of time. The foundation ensures machine alignment and repeatable geometry by providing stiffness to the machine tool.

Factors to a Successful Machine Tool Foundation

The complexity of foundation design and build varies depending on machine size, type, and construction, but listed below are several key factors to consider when constructing your foundation.

• Obtain a foundation reference drawing and guidelines from the machine tool builder
• Single pour of concrete construction
• Machine tool is appropriately anchored to the foundation (grouting)
• Proper provisions for an electrical grounding circuit
• Checklists to monitor the performance of the construction contractors 

The bottom line, the foundation is integral to the success of your machine tool and the cost to do so is a fraction of the investment you make with the machine. Work with our Machine Tool Team to help understand the appropriate foundation requirements and ensure maximum performance from your investment.

MT-Sales@shibaura-machine.com