Heidenhain
What is Heidenhain?
Heidenhain is a German company specializing in measurement and control technology, best known for its CNC control systems and highly precise measuring devices. The company's products are widely used in machine tools, measurement systems, and automation solutions in the machining industry, where high positioning accuracy, repeatability, and process reliability are required. Heidenhain's solutions play a central role in CNC machining, especially in demanding milling and multi-axis machining applications.
Heidenhain's History and Company Background
Heidenhain was founded in Berlin in 1889 and has over a century of experience in developing measuring technology. After World War II, the company relocated to Traunreut, Bavaria, where its main operations are still located today. Heidenhain has grown into an international company with multiple subsidiaries and distributors around the world. The company has remained independent and foundation-based, which is reflected in its long-term product development and strong commitment to research and development.
Heidenhain CNC Control Systems in Machining
Heidenhain's CNC controls are designed especially for milling, mill-turn, and 5-axis machining. These control systems are renowned for precise interpolation, smooth axis movement, and the ability to leverage the mechanical performance of the machine efficiently. In machine shops, Heidenhain controls are often paired with high-precision machines where even minor measurement deviations can affect product quality.
Heidenhain Programming and Dialog-Based Approach
Heidenhain controls are characterized by dialog-based programming, where the machinist builds the machining program in logical and clear steps. This reduces the need for manual G-coding and makes programs easier to read, modify, and troubleshoot. Dialog programming is used alongside CAM software in many machining shops, especially for one-off parts, repair work, and setups.
Heidenhain Programming Station and Simulation
The Heidenhain Programming Station makes it possible to create and test CNC programs on a standalone workstation, without occupying the production machine. Graphical simulation of the programs helps detect errors before actual machining begins, increasing production safety and reducing downtime. This is especially useful in 5-axis machining and complex 3D shapes.
Heidenhain Control System Models
Heidenhain’s most well-known CNC controllers are the iTNC 530, TNC 640, and the newer TNC 7. The iTNC 530 has long been a common controller in versatile milling machines, while the TNC 640 is specifically designed for demanding 5-axis machining and mill-turn operations. The TNC 7 represents a newer generation with an enhanced user interface, visualization, and digital integration to meet the needs of the modern machine shop.
Heidenhain and Measurement Technology
In addition to CNC controls, Heidenhain is a significant player in measurement technology. The company manufactures linear and rotary encoders, touch probes, and digital measuring systems, which are used both in machine tools and standalone measuring setups. Combining measurement technology and CNC control into a unified system is one of Heidenhain’s key strengths in the machining industry.
Heidenhain’s Role in the Modern Machine Shop
Heidenhain’s solutions support modern CNC machining, where precision, repeatability, and process control are paramount. The control systems are well-suited to automated production environments and demanding one-off or small batch jobs. For machinists, Heidenhain provides a clear interface and predictable machine behavior, making it easier to achieve high-quality results.
Summary
Heidenhain is a long-established German manufacturer of measurement and CNC control technology, with products that have become standard in demanding machining industries. The company’s CNC controls, dialog-based programming, and precise measurement technology support efficient and high-quality CNC machining. Heidenhain is particularly known for solutions that maximize measurement accuracy, process reliability, and full utilization of a machine’s performance capabilities.
