Published 9/20/2007

Vertical Turning Center Built For Rigidity

Edited by: MMS Editorial Team

A vertical turning center for heavy turning of large workpieces, the YV-1200ATC from You Ji can be integrated into a production line or used for stand-alone applications. Available from Absolute Machine Tools, the machine is suited for industries such as aerospace, oil field and energy, and it can be customized to fit user requirements.

For reduced vibration and thermal distortion, the machine’s vertical column and base are constructed from ribbed Meehanite castings. The Z axis has a boxway design with Turcite B, and the X axis is available with either linear or boxway construction. The ways are completely enclosed, while a forced lubrication system is said to increase precision.

The Z axis is a large square ram measuring 9.8" × 9.8" that maintains rigidity even when extended to the full 35", the company says. The machine’s ballscrews are driven by servomotors rather than belts or gears, a design intended to improve precision. The infinitely positionable cross rail is movable on box ways and is hydraulically clamped.

The spindle construction incorporates an 18"-diameter Timken cross roller bearing and NN-type roller bearings to withstand high axial and radial loads. In addition, a double labyrinth seal protects the spindle from coolant contamination. The machine’s umbrella-style 12-tool ATC is shielded from chips and coolant and is designed to provide shortest-route tool selection. Options include a C axis for drilling and contouring, larger toolchangers, a two-pallet APC, coolant-through configuration for the live spindle, linear scales and more.

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