Cover shots

5-axis horizontal machining center

The a51nx-5XU 5-axis horizontal machining center offers a fifth-axis table and work-pallet magazine, while the linear X-, Y-, and Z-axis are built from the same structure as the a51nx. The machine offers a single-casting design that houses and integrates the B- and C-axis’ twin direct-drive motors. This single-piece casting provides rigidity and a minimized profile that reduces interference between the spindle and worktable.

Rotary B- and C-axis motion comes from a pair of responsive direct-drive motors. Jacket cooling of the direct-drive motor stators and bearing perimeters eliminates thermal deformation. The C-axis benefits from a BT-style 50-taper Big Plus (BBT50) interface and clamping mechanism, which provides workpiece location and clamping within the 5-axis machining envelope.

The work-pallet magazine (WPM) simplifies pallet changes in horizontally oriented 5-axis applications and facilitates unattended operation. The WPM takes the place of a traditional horizontal pallet changer, providing automated load/unload capabilities. The standard WPM offers storage capacity of 22 different workpieces with sizes up to 300mm x 300mm. An optional, larger capacity WPM provides storage of up to 58 workpieces with diameters up to 200mm.

Makino
www.makino.com

 

Shop floor CMM

The 4.5.4 SF coordinate measuring machine (CMM) includes integrated workspace LED lighting to assist the operator in poor lighting conditions. The bolt-hole pattern in the CMM’s granite base has been revised to accommodate a 300mm kinematic plate for repeatable, dedicated fixturing. Granite etching defines measurements in the X- and Y-axis. Optional programmable status lighting on the Z-axis signals the machine’s progress in the measurement routine. Power switches are located on the front of the machine for ease of use. An integrated monitor and keyboard arm can replace the workstation upgrade option, increasing flexibility for the operator while minimizing footprint.

The 4.5.4 SF CMM can fit through a standard size door to go where dimensional inspection is needed. The 4.5.4 SF uses standard 110V/220V outlets with no need for shop air. Other features include advanced thermal isolation, temperature compensation, and covered bearing ways.

Hexagon Metrology
www.hexagonmetrology.us

 

Internal face grooving

he DEEPGROOVE line of support blade style tooling expands with tools to cut internal face grooves with major diameters starting at 1.574" and depths of cut to 1". The DEEPGROVE system uses modular cutting heads and clamps and can be reconfigured for different major diameter ranges and insert sizes. Inserts are available in 2mm, 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, and 6mm with a variety of coating and corner radius options. Shanks are available as left- or right-hand orientation in 20mm, 25mm, 3/4", and 1" diameters. DEEPGROVE round shanks also accepts OD/parting and external face grooving heads.

Learn more: Download the detailed DEEPGROOVE catalog at http://goo.gl/hcT7EY.

THINBIT / Kaiser Tool Co. Inc.
www.thinbit.com

April 2015
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