Machining centres produce workpieces in a series of automatically linked process operations. These centres therefore have at least one numerical control system and a tool changer. The machine tools mill and drill workpieces and drill and tap threads. Depending on the machine type, the tool carrier may be rigid or can be moved in one or more axes.

In a machining centre, the tool carrier can move both horizontally and vertically. A further stroke movement is available by means of the spindle. The horizontal and vertical axes which move the headstock must be controlled to within the very strict tolerances required in order to fulfil today’s high accuracy requirements. Even under high cutting forces, the bearings must guide the headstock without clearance or vibration.

In order that non-cutting travel is kept to a minimum, the guidance systems must allow high traverse speeds of up to 13 m/min. Due to the high forces involved, the guidance system must be rigid and movement must be free from stick-slip. The systems must require little maintenance in order to minimize losses in productive time.