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When Sophisticated Multi-Axis Machines are Overkill for the Job

With its unique, programmable MillSlide Z-axis that provides greater rigidity and can also be operated manually with a quill handle, the VK4II CNC knee mill from Milltronics combines the latest knee mill technology with true 3-axis control that can be run as manual, teach or full CNC.

Posted: March 12, 2018

For tool rooms, prototypes, R&D labs and job shops, the very flexible 7.5 hp VK4II CNC knee mill from Milltronics combines the latest knee mill technology with true 3-axis control that can be run as manual, teach or full CNC. Its unique, programmable MillSlide Z-axis provides greater rigidity that can also be operated manually with a quill handle. This #40 taper machine has a two-speed 3,900 rpm spindle and a head that tilts ±90 deg with ±11.5 in of ram travel that also swivels ±90 deg.

Popular in tool rooms, prototypes, R&D labs and job shops, the next generation VK4II CNC knee mill from Milltronics USA, Inc. (Waconia, MN) offers a true 3-axis control that can be run as manual, teach or full CNC. Its unique MillSlide™ Z-axis provides greater rigidity and allows a programmable Z-axis that can also be operated manually with a quill handle. Travels are 33 in (X) by 15 in (Y) by 5.25 in MillSlide (Z) with 16.5 in (knee) and 5.9 in quill (manual). This knee mill has a 54 in x 12 in table with 1,500 lb capacity. Powered by a 7.5 hp backgeared motor, the machine is a #40 taper with a two-speed 3,900 rpm spindle. It’s a very flexible knee mill, as the head tilts ±90 deg and offers ±11.5 in of ram travel that also swivels ±90 deg. Standard handwheels are directly coupled to the ballcrews and provide feedback to the operator. Options include flood coolant and drip pan, table guard, power knee and power draw bar.

Featuring a PC-based 8200-B CNC with advanced processing speeds, 1 GB memory, 2 GB disk storage, a 12 in LCD monitor and membrane keys, the VK4II can be programmed with easy conversational, G-code or a CAM system. The 8200-B control has easy navigation function keys, solid model graphics, 3D pocket, DXF import, pockets and islands, tool tables, help screens, mid-program restart, handwheel run, scaling, mirror image, rotate and a variety of canned cycles, such as drilling, boring, tapping, milling and more.

“We’re excited about this new VK4II as a machine our customers have been asking for,” said Louie Pavlakos, the general manager of Milltronics USA. “In today’s machine tool market, there are lots of very sophisticated multi-axis machines available that are sometimes overkill, depending on the job. Our users say they still want and need flexible easy-to-use CNC knee mills. It’s about selecting the right machine for the job. This machine offers the latest technology in a knee mill for about the same price as the previous model.” More than 1,500 VK Series knee mills are installed worldwide, and this model features more than two dozen improvements over the previous generation.

Milltronics USA, Inc., 1400 Mill Lane Waconia, MN 55387, 952-442-1410, [email protected], www.milltronics.com.