A new multi-tasking turning/milling center has a variety of modular options that tailor it to exactly those functions that are needed for a user's range of parts. With two turrets, 8- or 12-stations each, one main spindle and an optional sub-spindle, Amada Machine Tools America says its new S-10 can do more in one loading, often with simultaneous machining from live spindles on each turret. Multiple part-loading options, optional live spindles and turning-tool holders, and the sub-spindle can be selected as individual modules and combined to handle an extraordinary range of parts configurations and sizes.

The S-10 reflects Amada Wasino's decade-long experience with multi-function, multi-live-spindle machines, combining an improved ergonomic design in which the main spindle faces the operator; higher productivity with twin turrets; and a choice of gantry loading, bar-feeding, or manual loading. A reversing vise and the sub-spindle offer alternative ways to work both ends of a part in one loading. Parts are chucked in the main spindle, which provides standard turning, indexing for multi-side milling, drilling, boring and threading, and full C-axis continuous motion for contour milling. In coordination with the C-axis, each turret is independently capable of simultaneous three-axis motion.

Advances in this new machine configuration fall primarily into two areas: A wider variety of machining and part-handling functions, and steps to enhance automation.

In the first category are modular machining heads and quick-change toolholders. Milling/drilling heads, which take their drive from countershafts that run through the turret, are offered in high-torque X-axis and Z-axis versions, which approach the work from perpendicular planes. An angular drilling head uses the turrets' multi-axis motion to drill holes at angles ranging from 8 to 35°From the primary machine axes. Quick-change turning and boring toolholders that use standard Sandvik Coromant tooling, and a polygon tool holder and cutters that allow multi-axis turning of flat faces, a quicker process than milling, in many instances, for machining flat faces on the work, are additional modular options.

The machine's primary claim to productivity is the twin-turret configuration, which can double the normal milling and turning throughput of a multi-tasking machine. Back-side machining with cutoff capability avoids the need for separate setups or offline second-operation machining. In addition, a dedicated, on-board toolsetting device; an on-board video camera for remote monitoring; and simulation software for testing an entire program in virtual space, speed the non-cutting, setup and running of the machine. A variety of work-staging and offloading options are available for the gantry loader and for bar-feeding.

The S-10 pushes the throughput capabilities of a class of machine tool that is already noted for its versatile machining capability in a compact space. With a footprint of only 67 inches by 79 inches, it will reportedly perform more operations, automatically, than two, three, or more conventional machine tools.