Absolute Machine Tools Inc. recently posted a video demonstrating its Tongtai TD-2000YBC, a high-precision CNC turning center cast from Meehanite iron. The turning center is loaded with high-tech features, according to the company. In particular, the machine features a rigid, ergonomic and accurate 75° bed design for excellent chip flow and operator accessibility.

The 75° bed also simplifies the programming of the optional Y axis as the Y axis is perpendicular to the X axis like a vertical machining center. High power spindles provide superior acceleration and deceleration times and the standard 12 station BMT-65 turret is servo driven, all of which add productivity and reduce cycle times.

Full advantage of the main 25HP high torque spindle motor is taken by the rigid vertical bed design. The 75° bed allows free flow of chips directly into the chip conveyor as well as easy access to the spindles and turret, making set-up very easy. The 75° bed also allows the X and optional Y axes to be perpendicular to each other, greatly improving accuracy and simplifying programming. The bed is a one-piece monoblock casting for strength and overall high machine accuracy. To ensure precision and thermal stability the headstock, tailstock, and saddle are all mounted on the same plane. The coolant tank is separate from the machine base to prevent heat transfer from the coolant to the machine casting which ensures precision and promotes easy clean out and maintenance. To further ensure accuracy and precision, the ballscrews are double-nut type and pretensioned to eliminate thermal growth. High rapid traverse rates using 45mm roller type linear ways are also achieved to reduce non-cutting time.

The precision spindle structures are mounted using precision double row roller bearings in conjunction with angular contact ball bearings for high rigidity and accuracy. The spindle quill inner and outer linings are precision ground for fit with the spindle, thus ensuring extreme concentricity and accuracy. The main spindle is driven by a 25HP high torque motor which provides power and surpassed acceleration. The sub-spindle is driven by a 10 HP high torque integral motor spindle. The spindles are synchronized on the fly for part transfer to the sub-spindle.

A 12 station bi-directional servo BMT-65 (16 station BMT-55 opt.) turret provides .3 second indexing as well as coolant through the tool holders. The BMT-65 turret provides superior rigidity for turning and milling compared with VDI type turrets. A full C axis with live tools is standard for milling operations on both the main and sub spindles. The true linear Y axis provides turret movement perpendicular to the X axis for complex off-center milling functions. Perpendicular axes also simplify machine alignment in the event of an accident. The Fanuc OiT-F CNC control is standard and fully loaded with operator friendly features including Manual Guide i Conversational. The Fanuc CNC system provides industry leading performance and reliability.