POWER AND ULTRA-PRECISION MOLD WORK

Machine tool supplier GBI Cincinnati (Cincinnati, OH) built a reputation on providing customer-driven solutions to a broad array of precision milled-part challenges. The Feeler VM Series is yet another step in providing these solutions ever more flexibly.

According to Rick Kaiser, national sales manager, "These Feeler vertical machining centers are ideal for ultra-close tolerance precision mold work, as well as mixed volume, short run operations ? or, at the other end of the production scale, dedicated high-volume applications."

With an X-axis of 40 in (31.5 in on the VM 32s), Y-axis of 20.5 in and a Z-axis of 22 in, the VM Series combines high performance milling and large machining capacity within a compact 9.2 in (8.3 in on the VM 32s) x 7.2 in x 9.2 in space-saving footprint. Table size is 45.3 in (37.4 in on the VM 32s) x 20.5 in. Maximum table load is 1,100 lb and five table T slots are standard.

Rapid traverse rates of 1,417 ipm (X- and Y-axis) and 1,102 ipm (Z-axis) mean accelerated machine cycle times and reduced non-cut time that increases overall throughput. Also increasing cycle time is an automatic carousel-type turret offering a fast 7 sec tool-to-tool index time. The turret holds 22 tools (24 on the swing double arm, 1.9 sec tool change) with a maximum tool weight of 17.5 lb. Tool maximum diameter is 5.9 in (3.14 in on the VM 32s), and length is 11.8 in.

Feeler's vertical machining centers include versatile high-speed linear guide ways in the X- and Y-axis and box ways in the Z-axis. Positioning accuracy is 0.0004 in and repeatability is 0.00024 in. A high-torque 25 hp AC GE Fanuc spindle motor with direct drive permits full horsepower at low spindle speeds. The 40-taper spindle delivers 50 to 10,000 rpm with semi-ceramic bearings to minimize heat. The headstock has been specifically designed to provide superior rigidity and precision cutting, even during full-power machining in steel.

To assure the rigidity required for heavy-duty cutting, the machine base is manufactured from high-quality mehanite cast iron, ensuring stability for years to come.

An automated lubrication system, a complete coolant system and splashguards with overlapping doors are standard. An optional rear flushing system provides powerful chip flushing and coupled with oversized chip disposal openings, eliminates chip deposit problems. The electrical cabinet is dust-proof. All wire through-holes are protected by water-resistant fittings to prevent oil moisture from entering. This extends electronic parts service life and assures maximum dependability.

The GE Fanuc 0i-MC features the latest technological advancements in a uniquely small space. The 10.4 in color LCD and full keyboard conveniently swivel for ease of operation. A shock absorber keeps the control in position when keys are pressed. GE Fanuc CNCs and associated spindle and servo drives have an exceptional reputation for reliability. For example, according to GE Fanuc, sub-system failures per month are nearly unheard of ? 0.00495 on the CNC, 0.00099 on the servo drive and 0.00376 on the spindle drive.

Feeler software in the 0i-MC is ideal for operators with varying levels of CNC experience, as it simplifies the transition from manual programming to G-code programming. As the operator's skill level rises and/or part geometry complexity increases, the operator can easily move through various levels of part programming generation. The 0i-MC can be programmed offline or online, allowing the use of standard G-code features available from GE Fanuc.

GBI Cincinnati is the exclusive U.S. distributor for Fair Friend Group's Feeler line of machine tools. Fair Friend Group is the number one producer of CNC machine tools in Taiwan and China and one of the largest in the world, producing over 4,000 units per year.

Utilizing only leading edge technology, each Feeler machine is designed and analyzed using advanced Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for dynamic simulation and structural analysis. All Feeler machines are laser calibrated and inspected to JIS (Japanese Industrial Standards) to ensure the final product is of the absolute finest quality. Master distributor GBI provides an unparalleled degree of training, service and support for all Feeler machine tool products in the U.S.

– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

www.gbicincinnati.com