Extra large CNC lathes offer precise turning

Though not on show at MACH 2008, XYZ Machine Tools' 'extra large' and robustly built XL CNC lathes with up to 12m centre distance offer excellent overall precision performance.

XYZ Machine Tools said at last week's UK MACH 2008 machine tool show that its XL range of 'extra large' capacity CNC lathes bring an unrivalled degree of choice to heavy metal removal, typically in the oil and gas industry and other high technology sectors.

And it is this degree of choice that explained the XL's absence from the MACH 2008 XYZ stand.

XYZ's managing director, Nigel Atherton, said at the show: "With six models in the range and various bed lengths and spindle bore sizes to choose from, we supply each XL lathe to suit each customer's specific requirement".

He added: "We have a proven track record for quality and reliability, and every new XYZ machine tool is fully covered with nationwide after-sales service and support that is second to none".

* Robust structure - the weight of the XL's cast bed, with extra-wide 'vee and flat' bedways providing a large bearing surface for the saddle and tailstock, ensures excellent overall precision performance.

For example, the mid-range XL 1200 weighs 9600kg for the 1m distance between centres version, with an additional 1400kg for every extra metre of distance between centres specified.

A massive tailstock, with three clamp points, prevents movement when machining between centres, while the headstock's precision taper roller bearings ensure spindle rigidity and concentricity.

Model designations are XL 730, XL 860, XL 1100, XL 1200, XL 1500 and XL 2200.

Figures denote the swing over bed in millimetres.

The distance between centres can be specified from from 1m to 12m.

The smallest model, the XYZ XL 730, has a 130mm spindle bore and an optional distance between centres from 1m to 4m in 1m increments.

The largest model, the XYZ XL 2200, can be supplied with a distance between centres from 2m to 12m in 1m increments.

The spindle bore is 230mm spindle bore as standard or optinally 320mm, 360mm or 410mm.

Bed widths range from 435mm (XL 730) to 1270mm (XL 2200).

* Programming - all models are equipped as standard with the Siemens 840D ShopTurn conversational CNC, which can be programmed by operators lacking specific DIN/ISO knowledge or off-line using CAD/CAM.

This control features 'easy to navigate' menus and comprehensive 'help' screens, with graphical support and integrated profile calculator making it possible to create any contour quickly and easily.

Simulation and many other functions are included to aid rapid programming and program verification.

* Spindle power - spindle motor ratings are from 15kW (20HP) to 60kW (80HP) and provide ample power for heavy stock removal, said XYZ to manufacturingtalk.

All six models are offered as standard with the following features.

* Constant Surface Speed (CSS) for optimum surface finish on machined components.

* Four-jaw independent chuck.

* Four-way toolpost or four-station auto indexing toolpost.

* Flood coolant.

* Automatic lubrication (ensuring thermal stability, quiet running and long life).

* Electro-magnetic brake.

* Chip conveyor and bin.

Optional equipment includes three-jaw universal or hydraulic chuck, fixed and/or travelling steadies, and eight-tool hydraulic turret.

* About XYZ Machine Tools - since 1984, XYZ has grown to be the largest supplier of CNC machine tools in the UK, and now exports across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Specialising in metal cutting machine tools designed specifically for prototype and low volume applications, the company's milling machines, lathes, grinding machines, turning centres and machining centres - manual, manual/CNC and full-CNC - are backed by a 'no-quibble' one-year warranty (extended warranties available if required), expert applications advice and award-winning customer service and support.

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