Rotary/tilt table brings accurate and affordable full 5-axis machining to small parts processing
FLORENCE, Ky., Oct. 8, 2013 – At DISCOVER 2013, Mazak demonstrated its new VERTICAL CENTER UNIVERSAL 400-5X, a small-footprint vertical machining center that features a 5-axis rotary/tilt table with durable, high-speed roller gear cam technology so that manufacturers can produce small complex parts, such as those for the aerospace industry, productively and profitably.
Featuring a powerful, rigid CAT-40 taper 10,000-rpm spindle, the VCU 400-5X offers unbeatable metal removal capabilities in common materials, including steel, aluminum and cast iron. Other maximum spindle speeds are available, such as 12,000 rpm and 20,000 rpm in 40-taper as well as 42,000 rpm in E40 (HSK), so that users can effectively match spindle performance with their part machining requirements.
The spindle chiller on the VCU 400-5X maintains a constant spindle temperature to prevent heat build up and improve machining accuracy. Other benefits of the chiller include extended spindle life, increased machining capacity and reduced maintenance costs.
A 20-tool standard storage capacity on the VCU 400-5X ensures continuous machining operation, while an optional 30-tool magazine is available to further reduce set-up times and increase machining flexibility. To reduce non-cut times, the VCU 400-5X features a cam-driven automatic tool changer that quickly exchanges tools and gets the spindle back in the cut in the shortest times possible. Reliable tool monitoring on the machine maximizes production efficiency and lowers operating costs via early problem detection.
Axes travels of 19.88” (505 mm) in X, 15.74” (400 mm) in Y and 17.12” (435 mm) in Z allow the machine to produce part sizes up to 15.74” x 15.74” x 9.84” (400 mm x 400 mm x 250 mm). The machine’s three linear axes attain high-speed rapid traverse rates of 945 ipm (24 m/min).
For precise 5-axis machining, the trunion-style rotary/tilt table on the VCU 400-5X is constructed with durable high-speed roller gear cam drive technology for high torsional rigidity and positioning accuracy. The table tilts +95 degrees/-45 degrees in the B-axis and rotates 360 degrees in the C-axis and can accommodate workpiece weights up to 440 lbs.
The machine also features Mazak’s MX Hybrid Roller Guide System that enables it to deliver high levels of durability and reliability, resulting in long-term accuracy. The innovative way system increases vibration dampening, extends tool life, handles higher load capacities and eliminates tramp oil in the coolant by utilizing a greener grease-based lubrication system.
Mazak equips the VCU 400-5X with the new MATRIX 2 CNC control, specifically for optimized 5-axis machining. The control incorporates both enhanced hardware and software functionalities that make it easy to use while also delivering high accuracy and increased productivity for the machine. The control’s hardware performance is much faster with higher processing speeds for small increment operation, and a 5-axis spline interpolation function included in the control’s software provides smooth toolpaths from long block-by-block programs, easy tool vector control and shorter cycle times as well as superior five-axis surface finishes.
The VCU 400-5X is part of the VERTICAL CENTER UNIVERSAL Series where Mazak takes a simple modular design concept and turns it into a versatile, small-footprint vertical machining center selection with advanced capabilities for cost-effectively handling any small-parts machining requirement.
The series, which consists of the VCU 300, VCU 400 and VCU 500, provides what Mazak considers the ultimate in manufacturing flexibility through 13 different machine configurations, including 3-axis and 5-axis versions, various X-axis stroke sizes and pallet changing capabilities.
According to company officials, only Mazak offers such a wide range of machine configurations within one design platform. Whether parts are simple or complex, produced in low, medium of high volumes, the VERTICAL CENTER UNIVERSAL Series has a machine that can offer the perfect balance of advanced technology, increased productivity and maximum value.