This year at EASTEC APEX, Datron Dynamics, Inc. will unveil an automated, 5-axis, high-speed machining center designed for small part manufacturing. According to Datron Dynamics Vice President, Robert Murphy, “The 5-axis M8 is the only machine in this price range that provides 5-axis capabilities for producing small parts requiring tight tolerance. Competitive machines either don’t have a 5-axis option or are very expensive.”
The M8 is a five-axis trunnion machining center that can access five sides of a part, and complete the part in a single set-up. According to Datron, the 5-axis M8 is ideal for producing medical components, aerospace parts and electro-mechanical parts. In conjunction with 5-axis capabilities, Datron also offers a robotic interface and a pick and place system for automated manufacturing. Murphy explains, “Customers who make use of the M8 with these options are generally at the forefront of their industry.”
The M8 high-speed machining center features a steel bridge reinforced with polymer concrete for superior stability and support for heavier spindles. Spindle options include a 2kW (2 ¾hp), water-chilled 60,000rpm spindle and a 3kW, 40,000rpm, HSK-E 25 spindle. Automatic tool change options include up to 30-tool "station-style" rack with tool- length sensor for the 2kW spindle and a 10-tool changer for the 3kw spindle. A stabilized gantry, integrated pneumatically covered tool magazine, LCD flat-panel display, polycarbonate side windows and a removable chip cart on wheels are just a few extra features that distinguish the M8. The M8’s vibration-dampening concrete polymer machine table can be ordered with a 36” knock-out as a free option. The Microsoft Windows-based controller works with virtually any CAD/CAM software and offers Ethernet networking capability, as well as remote monitoring and control, allowing the machine to seamlessly integrate into any manufacturing environment.
Other available options include a Z-Correction Probe that measures surface irregularities and compensates for them dynamically, a 3D Probe Extension that enables Z-Correction Probe to function in 3D (X, Y and Z), a Renishaw TP20 Probe for complex part measurement, Vacumate and Quick-Pallets workholding for quick setup and a Digital I/O that provides eight outputs from the CNC control.