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Two-Head CNC Router Choices
Question
Forum Responses
From contributor T: Are you looking for two heads, in operation one at a time, or are you looking for two heads, independently programmable, that can machine simultaneously? From the original questioner: I am looking for the two heads to run independently with different programs, and also the ability to have the two heads run the same program. All at the same time. From contributor H: CNT Motion has built at least a few machines with independent dual heads. From contributor J: Two independent heads, so two gantries or two cantilever arms, each with its own head? Fixed gantry with two heads and two moving tables - oh yes, but what a footprint. From contributor E: Stop by the Diversified Machine Systems booth at the AWFS show in Vegas next week. We will have a twin 5x6 table router with dual heads and dual tool changers that can operate that way. From contributor I: Multicam builds dual gantry machines that can run independent programs, mirror image machines (2 independent spindles running in mirror image of each other or in tandem) and many other custom built machines. From contributor M: In the early/mid -90's through the late 90's, Biesse offered the 325L which was a panel processing independent dual head machine. Machinery of this type can be very flexible and very productive. Most applications I have been involved with were dividing the routing/boring functions of one component (panel) in half - head one doing predetermined features of the panel, automatic transfer to the right vacuum zone for head two to complete the panel (while the first vacuum zone is reloaded with another panel for processing). You will also notice that these machines do not really grow in terms of footprint. Numerous considerations are given to prohibit the heads to ever come in contact, naturally. Numerous metal working machines use multiple heads, turrets. The primary philosophy with this type of machines is "done in one" type manufacturing mindset. From contributor R: Cost and programming prohibitive. Do yourself a favor and get two separate machines. From contributor A: At CR Onsrud, we have built several machines that use dual process technology. It allows the operator to run two entirely different programs from two entirely different sets of g-code at the same time, on the same machine. It also allows for infinite adjustability of the center distance of the two spindles when you need to slave them together, or in some situations, allows the machine to alternate the two spindles on one part, eliminating tool change time. We will have a dual process machine at the Las Vegas show next week. From contributor K: Seems to me that contributor R hit the nail on the head. What you are looking for is two machines. From contributor X: We are the North American partner of Maka. Maka has not only built a large number of double headed machines, they also have built a machine with 4 independent 5 axis heads. From contributor O: I have a Biesse Skipper 100 with 4 router heads that can work independently or together. I also know that Weeke has one out now with at least two independent router heads. Depending on your applications, these machines are worth the money due to high output volumes. Would you like to add information to this article? Interested in writing or submitting an article? Have a question about this article? Have you reviewed the related Knowledge Base areas below? 
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