FLUID POWERED SPINDLE

摘要

A fluid-powered high-speed spindle (100) having a longitudinal axis (A) defining an upper end defined by a shank and a lower end accepting a tool. The spindle includes a body (120), a rotatable shaft (530) supported by at least one bearing (508) within the body (120), a seal housing (150) connected to the body (120) at the lower end thereof, a cover (180) connected to the seal housing (150) at the lower end thereof, a fluid channel system for directing fluid from an entry port (102) to a nozzle (576) for turning a turbine (570) attached to the shaft (530); and a flinger (660) attached to the shaft (530) and positioned above the turbine (570). The flinger (660) and the seal housing (150) combine to form a non-contact seal (900) configured to impede the flow of fluid toward the at least one bearing (508).

主权项

1. A liquid powered spindle (100) having a longitudinal axis (A) defining an upper end and a lower, shaft-tool end (598), comprising:
a) a body (120, 120A) having a fluid channel system, a spindle cavity (440), and at least one aperture (334, 334A); b) a shaft (530) having a turbine (570), wherein the shaft is rotated by a pressurized liquid striking the turbine; and c) at least one sensor module (130) mounted to the body in association with the at least one aperture such that the at least one aperture provides a line of sight and allows the at least one sensor module to sense internal characteristics of the spindle; wherein: the fluid channel system is configured to direct liquid via least one axial exit opening (586, 588) towards the shaft tool end (598).