EMAG offers what its executives are calling a comprehensible solution for the turning sector, in terms of both cost and production.
The VL 2 P from EMAG completely machines workpieces up to 100 mm diameter in two setups. To achieve this, it is equipped with two workspindles that work in pendular mode, i.e., while one spindle machines the first side of the workpiece, the second one uses the pick-up principle to load itself. This ensures that the next raw-part is ready to be machined as soon as the first workpiece is completed and the turret swings over to the second spindle. This method results in the shortest possible chip-to-chip times.
With the VL 2 P, the EMAG designers started from the ground up. The machine base is cast in Mineralit. This polymer concrete has an 8x better vibration damping effect than grey cast iron. Once the machine is up and running, the user does not need to wait long to feel the results of having this design detail incorporated. Dr. Guido Hegener, Managing Director of EMAG Salach Maschinenfabrik explains, “A vibration-resistant machine leads to a better surface finish. It also increases tool life.”
Another important quality feature associated with this new vertical turning center from EMAG can be seen in its automation equipment. To move components, the VL 2 P uses a recirculating chain conveyor equipped with workpiece carriers. This ensures that the workpieces can be moved directly to the pick-up station, where they are then machined. As loading takes place outside the machining area, the passing conveyor allows for the removal of finish-machined components and the loading of raw-parts at the front of the machine.
The VL 2 P also reduces the idle times when a workspindle is in non-productive mode. Guido Hegener explains, “We have, of course, had an eye on the undesirable idle times when we designed the VL 2 P. Changing workpieces on this machine is unbeatably fast, owing to the fact that the traverse between workspindle one and workspindle two is minimal. The time needed to load and unload the workpieces runs parallel to the cycle time and therefore has no influence on chip-to-chip times.”
A variety of components,and their quantities, can be manufactured on the machine. Gear blanks are manufactured with equal efficiency as flanges or cams. “The VL 2 P is ideal for the machining of workpieces with short runtimes and impresses with its short cycle times and exceptional component quality,” adds Hegener. “These are features that will continue to draw attention.”