With the continuing evolution of machining requirements to satisfy new power generation production needs, Mitsui Seiki has introduced the HU63-T 5-xis CNC Machining Center. Typical applications include critical rotating components (Blisks, Impellers, and Turbine Disks) for gas turbine power generation systems.

New features and specifications for the HU63-T include up 800mm (31.5") work diameter capacity on its vertically oriented table, 300 kg (660 lbs) work / fixture weight capacity, variety of increased axis stroke options, high torque spindles (1081 Nm, 800 lb-ft continuous), tuned structure for heavy cutting in hard metals, and latest Fanuc 30iM control with enhanced features for 5-axis simultaneous machining. The X, Y, Z working envelope is 900mm x 800mm x 800mm (35.4" x 31.5" x 31.5"). The rapid federate in X, Y, Z axes is 32,000mm/min (1260 ipm). Accuracy is the hallmark of any Mitsui Seiki machine. With the HU63-T, positioning accuracy in X, Y, Z axes is 0.001mm (0.00004"), positioning repeatability is 0.001mm (0.00004"). On the B axis, positioning accuracy is +/-4 arc seconds; repeatability is +/-1.5 arc seconds.

The driver for the energy industry boom is fuel efficiency, achieved by lighter weights, excellent heat tolerance, and smaller packages. For a machine tool builder such as Mitsui Seiki, this is a fortunate evolution as more sophisticated machine tools are required to machine these new materials and complex precision parts cost-effectively. Mitsui Seiki has a long history developing dedicated machine tools for the energy industry. The company has been particularly active in the ground-based gas turbine market developing new projects for high speed machining of air foils, heavy-duty machining of engine cases, and high precision machining of gearboxes.

The advancement of its HU-T product line has become important to this energy market segment. Likewise, with other products, the company is gaining ground in the wind market, helping windmill manufacturers make their gearboxes faster and more precisely.