New machines increase manufacturers’ product quality

Computer numerical control machine tool manufacturer Okuma’s new MU-4000V is excellent for 5-axis multisided machining and is well suited for the aerospace and die and mould industries.

The MU-4000V provides high-speed, process-intensive machining, combined with turning and 5-axis multitasking machining. It features the OSP-P300A control, the latest control from Okuma, which includes new applications and widgets, a motion control system and a reduction in start-up time to improve operator efficiency.

The MU-4000V is a versatile machine which features a large work envelope and substantial base in a compact footprint. Its sturdy design boasts a machine mass of 9 700 kg and the B-axis trunnion is completely supported as there is no overhanging mass. Fully supported axes construction allows for scope of spindles ranging from 12 000 rpm to 25 000 rpm to efficiently handle complex and difficult-to-machine materials.

The unique and automation-friendly design places the pallet changes at the back of the machine, allowing easy connection to a palletace flexible manufacturing system or pallet pool, delivering high productivity in addition to high accuracy. Automatic tool changers can be configured to meet growing demands with 32 to 64 tool chain magazine systems and 64 plus matrix cabinets.

The MU-4000V can be equipped with Okuma’s exclusive Super-NURBS function, enabling high feed rates and smooth finishes. Built using Okuma’s Thermo-Friendly Concept, this 5-axis machining centre performs consistently from the first part to the last, regardless of warm-up time or ambient temperatures.

The standard 5-axis auto tuning system automatically measures and compensates for up to 11 geometric errors to ensure precision machining.

Meanwhile, at the International Manufacturing Technology Show 2016, Okuma’s new V920EX cut a steel pump valve casing and pipe flange with cutting tool manufacturer Iscar tooling – which is a member of industry collaboration Partners in THINC. Okuma’s V920EX one-saddle, vertical lathe features a powerful turning spindle and a larger work envelope making it ideal for cutting a variety of large, heavy parts.

The V920EX boasts a work envelope with a maximum turning diameter of 36.22″ and 33.86″ of swing over the saddle, enabling it to accommodate large, odd- shaped work pieces. Highly rigid construction and powerful ball screws generate slide way movement to both axes for precise machining of heavy parts.

Maximum machining productivity is achieved with a V12 turret and foolproof chip discharge. Designed for smooth chip flow, optional side or rear chip conveyors can be placed to match discharge direction based on shop floor requirements. Maintenance tasks are simplified with easy access to the air filter, hydraulic unit and coolant tank on the back of the machine.

Okuma’s Thermo-Friendly Concept is standard and automatically compensates ambient temperature changes to maintain tight tolerances. Okuma concludes that cycle times, lead times and energy costs are significantly improved with its open architecture OSP-P300L control and ECO suite feature.