Index's Multi-Spindle Automatic Lathe Features Flexible Tool Slide

Index Corporation says its MS32-6 multi-spindle automatic lathe is a six-spindle machine that brings the benefits of multi-spindle technology to a broader range of applications due to a flexible tool slide platform that greatly reduces changeover times.

Accommodating up to 32-mm bar stock, the MS32-6 is said to easily handle a wide variety of complex parts, as the machine is equipped with 12 cross-slides, with two v-shaped cross-slides equipped with X and Z axes located at each spindle position. C and Y axes, together with live tools, can also be implemented to enable a broad range of machining processes, including off-center drilling, threading, contouring, hobbing and polygonal turning. The company says all of the machines’ slides can also be alternatively configured for grooving or drilling.

Each cross-slide in the MS32-6 now incorporates Index’s W-serration locating system which provides µm-accurate alignment of the toolholder. Coupled with the company’s newly developed quick clamping device, it is said tools can be set up off of the machine and then quickly installed, reducing tool change times by 50%. Additionally, the machine incorporates the same W-serration system on its live units for drilling, milling and polygonal turning. By presetting tooling for these operations off of the machine, the company says setup times can be reduced by up to 92%.

With the updated MS32-6, users can also apply twin turrets with rigid tools in up to five spindle positions. These hydraulically controlled units can alternate between tools in less than half a second. This enables the efficient use of separate tools for roughing and finishing in the same position. The twin turrets can also be used to reduce tool changes by incorporating duplicate tools, an option that is attractive when working with difficult-to-machine materials.

The machine’s fluid-cooled spindle drum features six spindles with speeds that are independently controlled up to a maximum of 8,000 rpm. This is said to enable optimum cutting data to be applied to each individual cutting process, resulting in better metal removal rates, surface quality and tool life. Additionally, the machine can be equipped with one or two synchronous spindles, each of which can apply up to six tools for machining the rear end of parts.