Hydrostatic machine base for ultra-precision grinding centre
March 2026
Motion Control & Drives
Hyprostatik Schönfeld, based in Germany, are market leaders for hydrostatic components and has developed a high-precision hydrostatic machine base for a new ultra-precision grinding centre for Optotech. The machine platform forms the heart of the system, and enables a previously unattainable combination of dimensional accuracy, dynamics and surface quality in the ultra-precision grinding of optical surfaces.
Rigid machine structure based on granite
The machine base consists of a solid granite bed, providing optimal conditions for ultra-precision machining due to its superior thermal stability and stress-free, high precision properties. A cross slide with hydrostatic guide shoes moves on top, performing horizontal movements in the X and Y directions. The axes are driven by linear motors with high precision linear scales, enabling backlash-free, highly dynamic precise positioning.
Hydrostatic Z-axis with innovative drive concept
The vertical hydrostatic guided Z-axis in RAM design is mounted at the front of the granite bed and is driven by a hydrostatic screw drive with hydrostatic bearing and torque motor. This allows higher dynamic and precision in more compact design than using linear motor. A weight balance is not necessary.
Maximum accuracy thanks to hydrostatic guidance technology
The rigid construction of the machine and the finishing of all relevant components on hydrostatic grinding machines, result in straightness of movement and positioning accuracy that is several times better than comparable systems with roller guides.
The slides float friction-free on hydrostatic pockets; this enables travel steps of less than 0,1 µm and a reversal play of less than 0,1 µm. Thanks to the contactless guidance, the axes operate completely wear-free and maintain their accuracy consistently over many years.
Optimal damping for maximum surface quality
Another advantage of hydrostatic guidance is its excellent damping. This increases path accuracy, especially at high dynamics, and has a direct positive effect on the achievable surface quality of the workpieces. High accelerations also enable short machining times with maximum precision.
Hydrostatic workpiece spindle with excellent rotation quality
A hydrostatic workpiece spindle is positioned above the vertical axis, achieving axial and radial runout below 0.1 µm. This precision improves both dimensional and surface quality of machined optical components.
Hydrostatic grinding spindle with excellent runout and damping
The hydrostatic grinding spindle, with runout below 0.1 µm and balance quality vastly exceeding G0.4, grinds brittle and hard materials with minimal surface damage, significantly reducing polishing time.
For more information contact Hyprostatic, +49 7161 965 9590, [email protected], www.hyprostatik.de
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