Machine Tool product review for June 2012

Multitask turning center has three turrets

The Nakamura-Tome NTY3-250 multitask turning center from METHODS MACHINE TOOLS INC., Sudbury, Mass., (www.methodsmachine.com) has three rigid turrets, each with a 4.4″ Y-axis. Each turret holds 12 driven or 24 stationary tools, for a maximum of 72 tool stations. The X- and Z-axis speeds are 1,181 and 1,574 ipm, respectively. To accommodate these speeds and ensure stable performance, the machine weighs 31,807 lbs., the company reports. The distance between spindles is 47.24″. The machine has a 60° slant bed for enhanced chip flow and easy access to the work and tooling. The maximum turning diameter is 8.86″ and the maximum turning length is 35.65″.

5-axis wire EDM imparts fine finishes,uses new ‘microsparking’ technology

ACCUTEX EDM, Mason, Ohio, (www.accutexedm.com) has introduced the SP-300iA 5-axis wire EDM with its latest “microsparking” technology to impart fine surface finishes. The machine has a Meehanite cast honeycomb base, ribbed column and reinforced lower arm for added stiffness. The working range for the X, Y and Z axes is 13.8″×9.8″×8.7″, respectively. The U and V axes each travel 3.15″. The mechanism for the U and V axes is placed in a cabinet above the working area to provide protection from humidity and other physical damage. The axes are driven by closed-loop AC servomotors with 0.000004″ resolution and controlled by a linear glass feedback system.

Electrochemical machines available to North American market

Electrochemical machines from EMAG LLC, Farmington Hills, Mich., (www.emag.com) provide a noncontact machining process that does not put heat into a workpiece. Electrochemical machining is characterized by stress-free stock removal, burr-free surfaces and smooth and precise transitions when producing contours, according to the company. Standard features include a Siemens S7 control with graphics display, current relay and voltage monitor, pH control and conductance monitor, temperature control module and 42.27″×37.40″ machining area. Precise ECMs operate on the same basic principle of electrolytic dissolution, but include a mechanical oscillation mechanism for making more intricate 2-D and 3-D microstructures.