Liebherr LC 180 CNC Gear Hobbing Machine
Key Specifications
Maximum Workpiece Diameter
Maximum Module
Maximum Hob Diameter
Hob Speed
Workpiece Speed
Number of CNC Axes
Overview
The Liebherr LC 180 is a CNC gear hobbing machine designed for high-volume production of spur and helical gears up to 180 mm pitch diameter. Part of Liebherr's proven LC series, the 180 targets automotive transmission, powertrain component, and general gearbox production where cycle time and gear quality consistency are paramount. The machine features a fully CNC-controlled 6-axis design with automatic workpiece loading integration, enabling unmanned production in automated cells. The direct-drive hob spindle provides high torque at low speeds for dry hobbing with coated carbide hobs, eliminating cutting fluid and reducing tooling costs. An integrated workpiece measurement system enables closed-loop gear quality feedback, with automatic compensation for tool wear maintaining DIN 6 to DIN 5 gear quality throughout a production run. With a 100 mm workpiece bore and modular workholding, the LC 180 transitions rapidly between gear families with changeover times under 30 minutes.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Maximum Workpiece Diameter | 180 mm (7.1 in) |
| Maximum Module | 4 |
| Maximum Hob Diameter | 160 mm |
| Hob Speed | Up to 4,500 RPM |
| Workpiece Speed | Up to 1,500 RPM |
| Number Of CNC Axes | 6 |
| Drive Type | Direct drive hob spindle (no belt/gear) |
| Dry Hobbing | Yes (standard configuration) |
| Gear Quality | DIN 5–6 (ISO class 5–6) |
| Automation | Integrated gantry loader interface |
Specifications sourced from liebherr.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- Direct-drive hob spindle eliminates backlash and enables dry hobbing
- Closed-loop gear quality measurement with automatic tool wear compensation
- Designed for automotive-line integration with gantry loader interface
- Fast changeover under 30 minutes for high-mix production
- Liebherr geartrain expertise embedded in machine design philosophy
Limitations
- High capital investment limits accessibility for smaller gear shops
- 180 mm diameter restricts use to small and medium gears only
- Maintenance requires specialized Liebherr-trained technicians
- Dry hobbing produces hot chips requiring controlled chip evacuation
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
The LC 180 supports module 0.5 to 4 for external spur and helical gears. For larger modules or worm gears, the larger LC 300 or LC 500 machines in the series are more appropriate.
02
Yes. Dry hobbing uses PM-HSS or carbide hobs with TiAlN or TiCN coatings. These coatings withstand the elevated cutting temperatures in the absence of cutting fluid while maintaining edge sharpness.
03
The machine achieves DIN 5 to DIN 6 (equivalent to AGMA 11-12) with fresh tooling and optimal setup. Closed-loop measurement with automatic compensation maintains this quality throughout a production run.
Videos
Liebherr
Liebherr
Liebherr
Liebherr
AK Machines
Community Discussions
Owner experience and review — gear hobbing : r/Machinists - Reddithas anyone created a diy cnc gear hobbing machine?Machining - RedditGear Hobber Set-Up Calculations: Need Resources & AssistanceMaking Gears - Seeking resources for a hobbyist : r/MachinistsWhat kind of lathe setup to cut brass gears?
Community discussion — has anyone created a diy cnc gear hobbing machine?
Community discussion — Gear Hobber Set-Up Calculations: Need Resources & Assistance
Community discussion — Making Gears - Seeking resources for a hobbyist :
Links to community discussions. Summaries are editorial — visit the original thread for full context.
Related Machines
Gleason Genesis 200GX
Gleason P600G
KAPP NILES KX 300 P
