Published 11/24/2014

Five-Axis HMC Equipped with Work-Pallet Magazine

Edited by: Stephanie Hendrixson

Executive Editor, Additive Manufacturing

Makino’s a51nx-5XU five-axis horizontal machining center incorporates a fifth-axis table and work pallet magazine, and is intended to serve as an alternative to single-pallet-load vertical machining centers for machining of small parts. Its horizontal orientation, integral cast fifth-axis table and integrated workpiece automation offer reliable multi-axis machining and eliminate recutting of chips, stack-up errors and challenges of five-axis part loading, the company says. The HMC is well-suited for manufacturing rotating cutting tools and aerospace, medical and prototype components.

The machine’s rigid bed casting with three-point leveling system provides a solid foundation for critical machine components. According to the company, the tiered-column design redirects machining forces and resists deflection even high in the Y axis. The HMC’s design is said to promote dynamic stiffness and vibration management for greater cutting stability.

Twin direct-drive motors on the B and C axes offer rapid traverse rates of 75 rpm and 150 rpm, respectively, minimizing noncutting time. Jacket cooling of the direct-drive motor stators and bearing perimeters resist thermal deformation to maintain repeatability and accuracy. The C axis is equipped with a BT-style 50-taper Big Plus (BBT50) interface and clamping mechanism to locate and clamp the workpiece.

In place of a traditional horizontal pallet changer, the HMC is equipped with a 22-station work-pallet magazine (WPM) that simplifies pallet changes and facilitates unattended operation. The standard WPM accommodates workpieces ranging to 300 mm in diameter and 300 mm in height. An optional WPM provides storage for 58 workpieces with diameters ranging to 200 mm. Parts are mounted directly to the 50-taper dual-contact toolholders (BBT50) and stored in the matrix. The system includes a work-setting station (WSS) for loading and setup operations, as well as a work data management panel. The HMC can also be equipped with Makino’s MAS-A5 control system for greater scheduling control.

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