Tilt-Spindle Machining of Large, Hard-Metal Parts

The HU100-TS 100 tilt-spindle 5-axis horizontal machining center from Mitsui Seiki USA, Inc. (Franklin Lakes, NJ) is built to handle machining of large, hard-metal workpieces that are better suited for tilt-spindle processing than trunnion table operations. Its fixed table and tilting head arrangement facilitates production of heavier and larger parts and can permit use of shorter, more rigid tooling. This new machine offers high rigidity and accuracy when machining tough materials such as titanium and Inconel that are common in aerospace, power generation and other high-value applications. The horizontal table of the HU-100TS can accommodate workpieces up to 1,900 mm (76 in) long and 1,250 mm (50 in) diameter, weighing up to 2,000 kg (4,400 lb). XYZ-axis travels are 1,300 mm (52 in), 1,500 mm (60 in) and 1,400 mm (56 in) respectively, with B-axis rotation of 360 deg and A-axis rotation of -30 deg to +120 deg. The machine’s compact 5,530 mm (221 in) x 8,431 mm (337 in) footprint is similar to that of its four-axis equivalent.

The column width and length/height ratio of the HU100-TS are engineered to maximize stability in heavy machining. Its HSK-A100 taper spindle provides up to 150 kW (201 hp) power and 1508 N-m (1,112 lb-ft) torque. A standard automatic tool changer has capacity for 60 tools (180 optional), up to 500 mm (20 in) long. Maximum tool diameter is 125 mm (5 in); tools stored without adjacent tools can be up to 216 mm (8.6 in) diameter. “For aerospace manufacturers and others machining tough alloys, this machine offers five-axis, tilt-spindle flexibility and the automation potential of a horizontal machining center, as well as the rigidity, accuracy and reliability of a heavy-duty design,” noted Scott Walker, the chairman of Mitsui Seiki USA.

Mitsui Seiki also offers the HPX63 II 4-axis horizontal machining center – an improved version of their proven HPX63 unit – that features a 70 percent faster rapid feed rate of 54 m/min for shorter cycle times, and a 14 percent reduction in its shop floor footprint (now 5,554 mm x 3,530 mm) to maximize manufacturing facility space. Capable of machining workpieces as large as 1,050 mm x 1,050 mm (diameter x height), this HMC is engineered to process medium-size precision parts. Its pallet size is 630 sq mm and maximum table load is 1,200 kg. Positioning accuracy and repeatability are ±0.001 mm (one micron). XYZ-axis strokes are 1,000 mm, 800 mm, and 900 mm respectively. An 18.5/15 kW (30 min/continuous) spindle utilizes ISO 7/24 50-taper tooling and provides rotation speeds from 15 rpm to 6,000 rpm, as well as 600 Nm maximum torque. The B-axis rotary table offers high torque and acceleration. A 60-pocket automatic tool changer accommodates tools up to 500 mm long and 125 mm diameter (265mm diameter without adjacent tools), weighing up to 25 kg.

“This machine represents the latest evolution of our series of 630 mm-pallet horizontal machining centers,” said Tom Dolan, the vice president of sales and marketing at Mitsui Seiki. “Its improved performance and convenience illustrate our continuing efforts to help users increase their efficiency and competitiveness.”

Mitsui Seiki USA, Inc., 563 Commerce Street, Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417, 201-337-1300, www.mitsuiseiki.com.