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The Warner Swasey H700A is a heavy-duty horizontal boring mill designed for precision machining in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and heavy equipment manufacturing. Known for its rugged design and high-level accuracy, the H700A provides manufacturers with the ability to machine large parts with tight tolerances. Despite being an older model, it is still valued in many workshops for its durability and performance.
History and Development of Warner Swasey
Warner Swasey, established in 1880, has a long legacy in the design and manufacture of machine tools, particularly for the aerospace and defense industries. The company became synonymous with the production of high-precision equipment designed for large-scale machining. During the 20th century, Warner Swasey’s machines were widely used in various industrial sectors, including automotive, aerospace, and oil and gas.
By the 1960s and 1970s, the company gained recognition for creating some of the most reliable boring mills in the industry, and the H700A was one of their flagship models. The machine was engineered to meet the demands of precision-heavy manufacturing, able to handle massive parts with superior rigidity and accuracy.
Warner Swasey, later known as Swasey, merged with several other industrial tool manufacturers and eventually became part of the larger manufacturing conglomerate known as The Sundstrand Corporation in the 1980s. Despite being absorbed into other entities, Warner Swasey’s legacy still echoes in the designs of modern machining systems.
Key Features of the Warner Swasey H700A
The Warner Swasey H700A was designed to handle large, heavy parts while maintaining high precision. Some of the key features of this machine include:
Despite its rugged construction, the Warner Swasey H700A can face operational issues over time, especially if it has been in service for several decades. Here are a few common maintenance tips and troubleshooting steps:
The Warner Swasey H700A remains a highly regarded piece of equipment in industrial machining, particularly for its ability to handle large and complex parts with precision. While it may be an older model, its durability and versatility make it a valuable asset in many manufacturing environments, especially when updated with modern CNC controls. Proper maintenance and attention to its operational needs can extend the life of this robust machine, continuing to support industries like aerospace, automotive, and heavy equipment manufacturing for years to come.
History and Development of Warner Swasey
Warner Swasey, established in 1880, has a long legacy in the design and manufacture of machine tools, particularly for the aerospace and defense industries. The company became synonymous with the production of high-precision equipment designed for large-scale machining. During the 20th century, Warner Swasey’s machines were widely used in various industrial sectors, including automotive, aerospace, and oil and gas.
By the 1960s and 1970s, the company gained recognition for creating some of the most reliable boring mills in the industry, and the H700A was one of their flagship models. The machine was engineered to meet the demands of precision-heavy manufacturing, able to handle massive parts with superior rigidity and accuracy.
Warner Swasey, later known as Swasey, merged with several other industrial tool manufacturers and eventually became part of the larger manufacturing conglomerate known as The Sundstrand Corporation in the 1980s. Despite being absorbed into other entities, Warner Swasey’s legacy still echoes in the designs of modern machining systems.
Key Features of the Warner Swasey H700A
The Warner Swasey H700A was designed to handle large, heavy parts while maintaining high precision. Some of the key features of this machine include:
- Heavy-duty Construction
The H700A is built with a rigid frame, designed to withstand the heavy forces involved in high-precision machining. Its robust structure allows it to handle the stresses of machining large components without compromising the accuracy of cuts. The heavy-duty nature of the machine makes it suitable for working with materials such as steel, titanium, and other hard alloys commonly used in aerospace and automotive industries.
- Horizontal Boring Capability
This machine excels in horizontal boring, allowing operators to perform operations such as drilling, boring, and milling of large and complex parts. It has a high level of flexibility when it comes to the size and complexity of the parts it can process, making it useful for many industries.
- Large Workpiece Capacity
The H700A can accommodate large workpieces, thanks to its spacious table and extended travel range. The worktable can hold parts weighing several tons, making it ideal for machining large components used in industrial and aerospace applications.
- Precision and Accuracy
The machine is known for its precision, especially when it comes to making large, complex cuts. The ability to maintain accuracy over long periods and under heavy cutting forces makes the H700A a valuable tool for critical manufacturing applications where tolerances are key.
- Versatile Tooling Options
The H700A can be fitted with various tools for different operations, allowing manufacturers to use it for a wide range of tasks. The versatility in tooling enhances the machine’s ability to adapt to different project requirements, saving both time and money for manufacturers.
- Advanced CNC Integration
While the H700A was originally produced before the widespread adoption of CNC (computer numerical control) technology, many of these machines have been retrofitted with modern CNC systems. This allows for more automated and precise control over the machining process, improving the overall efficiency and quality of production.
- Aerospace
The aerospace industry relies on precision machining to produce components with extremely tight tolerances. The Warner Swasey H700A is ideal for producing parts like engine components, turbine housings, and structural components, which must meet strict standards for quality and durability.
- Automotive
Large automotive components, including engine blocks, cylinder heads, and transmission cases, often require heavy-duty machinery like the H700A for precision boring and milling. This machine’s ability to handle such parts efficiently and accurately makes it a favorite in automotive manufacturing.
- Heavy Equipment Manufacturing
For industries producing large-scale machinery, such as construction equipment, mining equipment, and military vehicles, the H700A offers the precision and stability needed to machine large parts. It’s capable of producing heavy-duty components that are essential in these industries, including engine blocks, frames, and structural parts.
- Oil and Gas
The oil and gas industry often requires the production of robust components that can withstand extreme conditions. The H700A’s ability to handle large workpieces and produce precision parts makes it suitable for manufacturing components used in drilling, exploration, and refining processes.
Despite its rugged construction, the Warner Swasey H700A can face operational issues over time, especially if it has been in service for several decades. Here are a few common maintenance tips and troubleshooting steps:
- Check the Electrical System
Over time, wiring and electrical components can deteriorate. If the machine isn’t starting or responding correctly, check for issues with the main power supply, fuses, and circuit breakers. A regular check of the electrical system can prevent unexpected failures during operation.
- Regular Lubrication
Since the H700A is a large machine with many moving parts, regular lubrication is essential to prevent wear and tear. Be sure to lubricate the bearings, gears, and other mechanical components as per the manufacturer's guidelines.
- Clean the Machine
Debris buildup can interfere with the machine’s operation and precision. Regularly clean the worktable, tool holder, and internal components to prevent dust and shavings from causing damage to the parts.
- Inspect the Hydraulic System
Hydraulic systems are critical for providing the necessary power to move the machine's components. Regularly inspect the hydraulic hoses and valves for leaks, as well as the oil levels to ensure the system is working optimally.
- Check the Alignment
Maintaining proper alignment is key to ensuring the accuracy of machining operations. Periodically check and recalibrate the machine’s alignment to prevent discrepancies in cut quality.
The Warner Swasey H700A remains a highly regarded piece of equipment in industrial machining, particularly for its ability to handle large and complex parts with precision. While it may be an older model, its durability and versatility make it a valuable asset in many manufacturing environments, especially when updated with modern CNC controls. Proper maintenance and attention to its operational needs can extend the life of this robust machine, continuing to support industries like aerospace, automotive, and heavy equipment manufacturing for years to come.
