3-Spindle CNC Horizontal Drilling Machine for Boiler Barrel

Product Overview

The HD1814/2 is a specialized CNC horizontal drilling machine engineered for boiler barrel fabrication, featuring three independent spindles for simultaneous multi-position drilling. It automates precision drilling of tube holes and flange connections in heavy cylindrical workpieces (up to 10 tons, 15m long), directly enhancing boiler efficiency and safety by eliminating manual drilling variability.

• 60% faster drilling time than single-spindle machines via tri-spindle configuration.

• ±0.03mm positional accuracy ensures consistent hole spacing for pressure containment.

• Handles boiler barrels with outer diameters up to 2.5m (customizable to 4m).

• 75% less programming time via CAD file import (USB/network).

Product Features

Tri-Spindle Efficiency

The defining feature of this machine is its three independently controlled drilling spindles, each capable of operating simultaneously or sequentially based on programming. This configuration reduces drilling time by up to 60% compared to single-spindle alternatives when processing multi-hole patterns common in boiler barrels. Each spindle delivers 11 kW of motor power and features a BT40 taper for secure tool holding, accommodating drill diameters from φ10mm to φ40mm in high-speed steel or carbide materials.

High-Precision Positioning

Boiler barrel drilling demands exceptional accuracy, and this machine delivers with ±0.03mm positional accuracy over the entire working envelope. The X, Y, and Z axes utilize precision linear guides and ball screws, driven by high-resolution servo motors that maintain consistent feed rates from 0 to 5 m/min. A specialized rotary table handles the circumferential positioning of boiler barrels, with 0.001° angular resolution ensuring precise hole spacing around the barrel circumference.

Robust Construction for Heavy Workpieces

Designed to handle boiler barrels weighing up to 10 tons and measuring up to 15 meters in length, the machine features a reinforced cast iron bed with vibration-damping properties. The spindle housing incorporates internal and external cooling systems—with three dedicated nozzles per spindle—to manage heat buildup during extended drilling sessions. A high-capacity chip conveyor system efficiently removes metal chips, maintaining a clean working environment even during heavy cutting.

Advanced Control System

The machine utilizes an industrial-grade CNC system with a 15-inch touchscreen HMI, supporting complex drilling patterns with up to 10,000 program steps. Operators can import CAD files directly via USB or network connection, reducing programming time by approximately 75% compared to manual programming methods. The control system includes built-in tool life management, automatically alerting operators when drill bits approach their wear limit based on drilling count and material type.

Applications

Industrial Boiler Manufacturing

This machine is primarily utilized in the production of power plant boilers, industrial steam boilers, and waste heat recovery boilers. It drills the precisely spaced tube holes that connect the boiler barrel to heat exchanger tubes, a critical interface that affects heat transfer efficiency and pressure containment. The simultaneous drilling capability is particularly valuable for large utility boilers with hundreds of tube connections.

Pressure Vessel Fabrication

Beyond boiler barrels, the machine excels at drilling flange holes and access ports in various pressure vessels, including those used in chemical processing, oil refineries, and nuclear power applications. Its ability to maintain precise hole alignment ensures proper gasket sealing and structural integrity under high pressure conditions.

Heavy-Duty Pipe Manufacturing

The 3-Spindle CNC Horizontal Drilling Machine also finds application in manufacturing large-diameter steel pipes for offshore platforms and pipeline systems, where it drills flange connection holes and inspection ports with consistent accuracy across production runs.

FAQ

What is the maximum boiler barrel diameter the machine can accommodate?

The standard machine configuration handles boiler barrels with outer diameters up to 2.5 meters. Customized versions are available for larger diameters up to 4 meters with extended bed options.

How long does it take to set up for a new boiler barrel design?

With the machine’s CAD import capability and parametric programming, setup time for a new boiler barrel design typically ranges from 1 to 2 hours, including tool selection and program verification. This is significantly faster than the 4–6 hours required for conventional drilling machines.

What cooling system does the machine use?

The machine employs a dual cooling system: internal through-spindle cooling with 0.8 MPa compressed air atomization for deep hole drilling, and external nozzle cooling directed at the cutting surface. The system includes a 200-liter coolant reservoir with filtration to maintain coolant quality.

Can the machine drill angled holes or only perpendicular ones?

While primarily designed for perpendicular holes, the machine can be equipped with an optional multi-axis spindle head that allows drilling at angles up to 45 degrees from horizontal, suitable for specialized boiler tube sheet configurations.

What maintenance is required for optimal performance?

Recommended maintenance includes daily inspection of coolant levels and chip removal systems, weekly lubrication of linear guides, and monthly calibration of spindle runout. The control system provides predictive maintenance alerts based on operating hours, typically scheduling major overhauls every 5,000 operating hours.

Technical specification of HD1814-2

List of the Key Outsourced Components of HD1814-2