Vertical Turning Center Meets Strict Shaft Tolerances

Emag’s four-axis VT 4-4 vertical shaft turning machine handles workpieces as long as 41" and 8" in diameter with capabilities meant to meet the demand for strict-tolerance, complex automotive components. Two turrets with 12 tool stations each machine simultaneously at 4,500 rpm, with either turning or driven tools. Two workpiece grippers—one on each turret—move the raw parts to the machining area and remove the finished components. These features are said to improve performance in the high-volume production of shafts thanks to fast workpiece change-overs and shorter cycle times. The vertical alignment of the workpiece promotes unhindered chip flow, avoiding the accumulation of chips in the machining area.

To promote machining accuracy for strict tolerances, the machine base is made of polymer concrete Mineralit and carries all the machine modules. Its rigid, vibration-resistant construction ensures high-quality workpiece surfaces and accurate geometries. The turning machine is equipped with two recirculating conveyors that accommodate as many as 28 raw parts and 28 finished components, respectively. Transfer and turnover units or robots enable multiple VT machines to be linked up cost-effectively, according to the company.