National Sales Director, Factory Automation Division, FANUC America
FANUC’s newest control, the
FS 500i-A, marks a breakthrough for the machining industry. With the development of
several key innovations, both manufacturers and machine tool builders
upgrading to the new control platform will be able to take their businesses to
the next level. The following are the highlights that the industry can expect
from this new control.
Higher Performance & Reliability
Manufacturers and builders alike will immediately notice how much faster the
FS 500i-A control processes part programs compared to the 30i-B Plus.
In fact, the new control has 2.7 times more CPU processing power. Advanced
graphics and multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports will additionally boost machine
tool performance. Plus, the battery-less CNC design is sure to help
maintainability. Overall, cost and resource expenditure will be much lower
with the shorter cycle times as well as lower maintenance needs provided by
the FS 500i-A.
Next Generation Drive System
The FS 500i-A paired with FANUC’s latest servo system, the
αi D, is a
match made in heaven. The new αi D servo system provides all the
reliability and consistency FANUC motors have earned, but this new model
reduces electrical consumption and has built-in energy savings capabilities.
Providing high speed and precision with lower energy usage, these new motors
are sure to deliver the performance modern applications require.
Enhanced 5 Axis and Digital Capabilities
The FS 500i-A incorporates advanced tools for complex machining, like
5-axis applications, which manufacturers are increasingly adopting in their
operations. Integrated digital technology makes it easier for operators to
take advantage of 5-axis machining functions. Plus, with features like
built-in 3D interference checks, operations experience safter shopfloors.
Simpler, Faster, More Intuitive
Operators will benefit from FANUC’s latest iHMI2 CNC interface, which
retains the attractive look and feel of the original iHMI while maintaining
the familiar operability of legacy systems. For every task, all interactions
can be handled on one screen, eliminating the need to switch between multiple
screens. Additionally, the FS 500i-A enables programming of PMC
(Programmable Machine Control) systems using the IEC-defined Structured Text
language.
Powerful Tools for Machine Tool Builders
For machine tool builders using the FS 500i-A, they will enjoy
enhanced features to improve screen customization. Tools like FANUC PICTURE 2
will help builders develop tailored-made interfaces more quickly and easily,
including the improved ability to debug and expand UI components.
Moreover, the FANUC CNC Design Studio project management system provides
seamless integration with CNC setting tools such as PMC Programmer, Acceptance
Test Assist Tool, CNC Startup Tool,
FANUC PICTURE 2
and CNC User Setting Tool. This centralized management system is especially
helpful in upgrading from the FS 30i-B Plus CNC to the FS
500i-A.
Proven Performance to Support the Future of Manufacturing
FANUC built the foundation of CNC with our platform being at the root of
factory automation. Now, the FS 500i-A is the control to bring the
industry into the future. With its brand new architecture built on the proven
FS 30i control as well as features providing higher machining
performance, reliability, and usability, the FS 500i-A is the control
to trust to support all your manufacturing needs for years to come.