WFL Demonstrates Turning-Boring-Milling Machine Improve Process Reliability

WFL Millturn Technologies Inc. USA is demonstrating its M50 Millturn turning-boring-milling machine with 4,500-mm center distance. According to the company, the M50 Millturn features a wide range of tools that can be used in powerful drives, a connection of prismatic tools on the B-axis, good ergonomics at the operator station and various tools and cycles implemented on the control panel to increase productivity and process reliability. Users can configure their machine using many available technology modules. The corresponding WFL cycles on the control are said to support the customer in generating a productive workflow.

The M50 Millturn is designed with user-friendly access to the standard tool magazine, which is accessible from the front via the viewing windows. Moreover, the large viewing windows in the sliding doors provide an overview of the working area. LED lamps, which are similar to daylight, are installed within the working area of the basic machine as standard. There is a separate pick-up magazine for very long and/or heavy tools. Workpieces with a length up to 1,600 mm can be used and changed automatically. The disc magazine can be enhanced up to 200 stations, and all tool stations can be accessed directly. Furthermore, optical sensors are installed within the tool magazine for monitoring the tool stations.

WFL aims to reduce interruptions requiring operator intervention, such as measurements and controls. This is can be done by the use of software packages in the machine control, as well as additional intelligent clamping devices and tools automating the processes.

One of these tools is CrashGuard Studio, which is being demonstrated at IMTS. The realistic 3D simulation software can be used for testing and optimizing CNC programs after they have been created or modified. This can be done either on an external workstation or directly on the machine control unit. By optimizing the processing sequence and correcting errors at an early stage, the risks of collisions and of producing scrap parts, as well as unproductive run ins and downtimes, can be minimized.

CrashGuard Studio is designed to supplement any CAD/CAM software and for the WFL CrashGuard collision prevention software. Data for workpieces, tools and clamping devices can be transferred as required.

With the interactive graphics of the Millturn Pro programming software, CrashGuard Studio can be used as a universal programming system for complex workpieces (without freeform surfaces), according to WFL. Programming can be carried out on an external programming station or directly at the control panel of the machine itself. The programmed machining operations can be checked continually and step-by-step in CrashGuard Studio.

WFL’s technology cycles can cover a range of standard and special technologies for all cases of application. These program modules, which only require the input of parameters, have the capability to carry out efficient programming directly on the machine control or on a PC. The program can be created for both complex and simple workpieces.