Product category:
Rotary and linear transfer machines
News Release from: Mikron Machining Technology | Subject: Multistep XT-200 modular linear machining system
Edited by the Manufacturingtalk Editorial
Team on 03 August 2007
Modular transfer system machines small
batches
To machine small to medium batches, modular linear transfer system combines advantages of vertical, horizontal or universal machining centres including 5-axis processing and turning.
To machine small to medium batch sizes of cubic type components requiring up to 5.1/2 or six faces machined in a single automated cycle, the Mikron Multistep XT-200 offers 'one-hit' machining technology The machine is claimed to have all the versatile advantages of vertical, horizontal or universal machining centres - including 5-axis processing and turning in the single production unit
This article was originally published on Manufacturingtalk on 9 Oct 2001 at 8.00am (UK)
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Claiming to being the world's fastest rotary special purpose machine tool for components up to 32mm diameter, a 24-station design is able to machine up to 500 components/min.
The Mikron Multistep XT-200 is available from Mikron, a subsidiary machine development and build facility based in Rottweil, Germany of Mikron Machining Technology of Agno, Switzerland.
It features highly versatile modules, which enable expansion of the system according to user requirements.
A single manual or automated loading and unloading station feeds the linear machining system with components passing through each independent, two spindle module where progressive machining sequences are applied.
Further reading
Linear transfer machines short batches quicker
Linear transfer machining system performs 5.1/2-face machining and combines simultaneous 5-axis machining with a productivity rate some 47% higher than normal machining centres.
Rotary transfer machine accuracies raised
Rotary transfer machine enables higher levels of accuracy to be met by combining production sequences into a 'single-hit' cycle for large batch, medium batches of families of components.
World's fastest trotary transfer machine claimed
Producing the world's fastest rotary transfer machine able to produce parts at a rate up to 500/minute, Mikron has on offer a wide range of modular rotary and linear transfer systems.
Each machining module comprises two horizontal spindles able to move independently in the vertical Y-axis with the component presented on a platen located and held in a 2-axis (B and C) rotary unit.
Each spindle is serviced by its own 12 tool exchangeable disc magazine or fixed 18 tool magazine that has a 'chip-to-chip' time of under 1s.
A single B- and C-axis rotary unit serves the two spindles in each module and the part is transferred at rapid traverse rates of 52m/min between each module by a twin-arm rotary mechanism to provide a continuous linear workflow.
Mounted on the rotary unit is a high accuracy Erowa interface to precisely locate the pallet within +0.002mm.
The rotary unit will also revolve at up to 500 rev/min in the C-axis to accommodate light turning operations within the machining cycle.
Each of the spindles in a module operate alternatively in conjunction with the rotary unit which enables simultaneous machining on one spindle while tool changing is performed on the other spindle.
* Fast changeover time - such is the configuration of the machining modules that parts are fed from and return to the same loading station in order to minimise labour and reduce the cost of automation.
The maximum component envelope is 200mm cube and such is the design of the machine, that a complete changeover to another part should take no longer than 10 min.
Each module is fully integrated under the Bosch Rexroth or optional Fanuc control system.
Each module has the ability to perform 3-, 4- or 5-axis simultaneous machining cycles.
Multiple clamping of components is also possible within the working envelope and automatic adjustment of offsets to account for error between different pallets is carried out automatically.
Options for spindle specification are 18kW, high torque, 15,000 rev/min or a 14kW vector controlled, 40,000 rev/min high frequency drive.
Coolant pressure up to 120 bar can be specified and deep hole drilling accommodated in cycle.
A range of automation packages are also available with further options as follows.
* Renishaw probing.
* Tool breakage control.
* Heavy duty milling.
* The ability to rotate the component in cycle to create six face production capability.
* NC-facing and multi-drilling units.
Additional processes such as bush insertion, pressing and joining as well as on-board inspection routines can also be incorporated into the production cycle.
* Mikron Machining Technology at EMO 2007, Hannover, Germany, September 17-22, Hall 17, Stand C76.
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