Compact CNC Turning Center for Unattended Machining

The new Tongtai HS-22 high speed, high precision slant bed turning center distributed by Absolute Machine Tools, Inc. (Lorain, OH) turned components at IMTS 2014 in booth S-8536. The model at IMTS was equipped with an optional automatic part loading/unloading system.

It is unique in that it functions from the end of the machine rather than a gantry system that operates from the top of the machine. According to the company, this is one of the world’s fastest load/unload devices with a swap time of only 4.8 seconds. Further, a 14 pallet work stocker enables unattended machining.

The Tongtai HS-22 offers a swing over bed diameter and standard turning diameter of 8.66 in. Maximum cross travel is 6.1 in (X-axis) and maximum longitudinal travel is 8.66 in (Z-axis). Maximum turning length is 7.87 in. Noteworthy design and construction features of the HS-22 include precision box ways and large servo motors that provide a rigid and compact structure resulting in accurate positioning.

A demonstration of the Tongtai HS-22 slant bed turning center.

This uniquely designed high speed, high precision slant bed CNC turning center is cast from Meehanite iron. Precision box-ways and large servo motors provide ultra rigid and compact structure resulting in super accurate positioning. To ensure precision and thermal stability, the headstock, tailstock, turret, and saddle are all mounted on a one-piece 30 deg slant bed. The coolant tank is separate from the machine base to prevent heat transfer from the coolant to the machine casting, which contributes to precision and promotes easy chip removal and maintenance tasks.

The spindle assembly is mounted using double row roller bearings in conjunction with angular contact ball bearings for high rigidity and accuracy. The spindle quill inner and outer linings are precision ground for optimal fit with the spindle, which is helpful for concentricity and accuracy. The 6,000 rpm (or optional 4,500 rpm) spindle is driven by a 15 hp high-torque motor providing plenty of power for a wide range of applications.

A 12 station bi-directional turret provides 0.45 second indexing to the adjacent tool and 1.8 seconds to the 180 deg opposite tool station and provides coolant through the toolholders. C-axis and live tools are available as an option with the servo turret hosting VDI-40 quick-change tooling featuring 0.3 indexing time and a 7.5 hp, 6,000 rpm milling motor. A rear exit chip conveyor and a 6 in diameter three-jaw hydraulic chuck are standard.

Absolute Machine Tools, Inc., 7420 Industrial Parkway, Lorain, OH 44053, Courtney Ortner, 800-852-7825, www.absolutemachine.com