Methods Machine Tools Inc. has introduced the new Methods MB 450U simultaneous five-axis bridge-type toolchanger. See automatic toolchanger." title="CNC machine tool capable of drilling, reaming, tapping, milling and boring. Normally comes with an automatic toolchanger. See automatic toolchanger." aria-label="Glossary: machining center">machining center, loaded with features and capabilities for efficiently manufacturing complex parts with a high degree of quality, reliability and accuracy, as well as offered in an excellent value package. Due to the FANUC 31i-MB5 control, this machine is able to perform full five-axis precision machining of challenging parts, significantly reducing the need for multiple setups.

"In addition to having a unique, powerful FANUC control, the MB 450U machining center is packaged with comprehensive, high end functionality for exceptional performance," said Nicholas St Cyr, Methods machining centers product manager. "We are pleased to offer customers a 5-Axis machining solution that is fully loaded with robust features, and provides high value for the cost. Also, we offer our customers tremendous depth of support through Methods industry leading application engineers, technical service and parts support."

The FANUC 31i-MB5 simultaneous five-axis control has a 15" color display and includes a range of powerful standard features including a 2 GB data server, manual guide I, AICC II 600 block look-ahead, 1 MB of NC memory and 0.4 ms block processing time. The FANUC control offers collision detection with a 3D interference check and a Fast Package III with tool center point control.

Methods MB 450U features a 15,000-rpm Big Plus, 40-taper spindle with air-oil lubrication and a spindle chiller for longevity. A 15-hp hollow shaft spindle motor with 1,000 psi (70 bar) coolant-through spindle prep and couple is also standard. The new MB 450U machining center includes a large capacity, dual swing arm-type 48-tool automatic toolchanger. Travel is 15.7" (400 mm) on the X-axis and 13.8" (350 mm) on the Y and Z axes. The B-axis has -50°~ +110° tilting capability and the rotary C-axis has a 360° rotation angle.

Offering high machining stability, the MB 450U has a robust bridge-type construction with thermal compensation, including 1.771" (45 mm) linear roller guide ways in the X/Y-axes and 1.377" (35 mm) in the Z-axis, and weighs 13,250 lbs. (6,000 kg). Heidenhain linear scales in the X/Y/Z axes and Heidenhain rotary scales in the B and C axes offer high precision part production. Kinematic calibration features a spindle probe with a table center point calibration ball and kinematic software. A laser tool measurement system detects tool wear, damage and breakage, reducing non-productive time and enabling automated operation.