MODERNIZATION OF THE FP-17SMN4 VERTICAL MILLING MACHINE AS AN ECONOMIC ALTERNATIVE TO NEW CNC MACHINES

Abstract

This thesis discusses the modernization of the obsolete FP-17SMN4 vertical milling machine as an effective alternative to purchasing expensive modern CNC milling machines. In many machine-building enterprises, old milling machines are still used, although their control systems, mechanical drives, and working accuracy no longer fully meet modern production requirements. At the same time, the purchase of new CNC machines such as OPTI mill FP 1700 or DAH LIH MCV 1700 requires large financial investments. Therefore, modernization of existing machine tools is considered a practical and economically reasonable solution.

The FP-17SMN4 vertical milling machine, produced in 1987 at the Savelovsky Machine-Building Plant, was selected as the object of research. This machine had been used for a long time at Fergana Mechanical Plant. The modernization process includes the replacement of outdated control elements, installation of modern CNC control equipment, servo motors, special cables, and necessary hydraulic system components.

In particular, three servo motors for the X, Y, and Z axes and a digital CNC control unit were proposed to improve the movement accuracy and automation level of the machine.

The comparative analysis showed that modern CNC machines provide high precision, productivity, automation, and user-friendly operation. However, their price is significantly higher than the cost of modernizing an existing FP-17SMN4 machine. While modern foreign CNC milling machines may cost approximately 80,000–120,000 USD, the modernization of the FP-17SMN4 machine can be carried out at a much lower cost. This makes modernization especially important for developing countries and local industrial enterprises.

As a result of modernization, the FP-17SMN4 milling machine can achieve improved machining accuracy, reduced production time, increased service life, and better reliability. In addition, CNC retooling allows the machine to work with fewer errors and makes it possible to integrate modern safety and control functions. The study confirms that upgrading obsolete machine tools is a cost-effective way to increase production efficiency and reduce dependence on expensive imported equipment.