The Kitamura Mycenter-HX400iF features simultaneous full fourth-axis machining capabilities and a solid boxway construction. It is equipped with high speed rapids ranging to 1,969 ipm on the X, Y and Z axes, and it is driven by twin ballscrew and dual feedback technology. The machine can accommodate workpiece diameters ranging to 25.6" × 37.8" and a table load capacity of 880 lbs. It is suited for both multi-part tombstone fixturing and complex, multi-angle machining of medium to large parts.
The HMC features 270 Nm (199 foot-pounds) maximum cutting torque and 13,000-rpm spindle speeds. It is equipped with a 25-hp A/C spindle motor that features a dual-contact, two-speed geared head. The geared head enables the machining center to reach full power at 652 rpm. A 20,000-rpm, gear-driven spindle system is available for high-velocity metal removal.
The machine is equipped with a two-station, 180-degree, rotating pallet changer system that can be upgraded to a total of 21 pallets. Flexible manufacturing systems are also available. A standard 50-tool ATC changes tools in 1 sec., and as many as 200 tools can be added for flexibility without long lead times, the company says.
A full fourth-axis rotary table enables the user to machine complex, multi-sided parts without separate operations or special equipment. The table is said to be capable of indexing at 0.36 sec. for 90 degrees (15,000 degrees per min.) rapid feed, enabling quick positioning at any angle. It also is equipped with a high-precision rotary scale for optimum accuracy (resolution 0.0001 degree), the company says.
For increased spindle utilization and flexibility, the HMC can be expanded to a full-scale, simultaneous five-axis unit using the company’s machine-specific fifth-axis retrofits.
Reinvestment in automation has spurred KCS Advanced Machining Service’s growth from prototyping to low-and mid-volume parts. The key to its success? A young staff of talented programmers.
