Maskinrighed

Maskinrighed is a term used primarily in Nordic engineering to denote the structural rigidity of a machine or machine-assembly. It describes the resistance of the machine’s geometry to deformation under mechanical loads, cutting forces, or vibrational excitation. In practice, maskinrighed is closely related to static and dynamic stiffness and is a key determinant of tool-center deviation, accuracy, and surface finish in precision machinery.

Assessment is performed by applying known forces and measuring deflections, or by modal testing to determine natural frequencies. In design work, stiffness is estimated with finite element analysis to predict deflections under service loads. The rigidity depends on material modulus, cross-sectional geometry, joint details, preload, and boundary conditions.

Significance: Higher maskinrighed reduces deflection of the spindle, table, or slides under cutting and clamping forces, improving accuracy at higher speeds and feeds, and reducing vibration coupling and thermal drift.

Factors and trade-offs: Increasing rigidity generally uses stiffer materials, larger or triangulated frames, gussets, closed profiles, preloaded joints, and rigid mounting to a solid base. Designers must balance rigidity with weight, cost, manufacturability, and thermal stability, since high stiffness can worsen thermal gradients.

Etymology and usage: The term is common in Danish/Norwegian and some Swedish engineering texts; in English, the concept is usually described as structural stiffness or machine rigidity. See also stiffness, structural stiffness, finite element analysis.