High speed and environmentally friendly solution

Citation

(2000), "High speed and environmentally friendly solution", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 72 No. 5. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.2000.12772eab.002

High speed and environmentally friendly solution

High speed and environmentally friendly solution

Keywords Hitachi Seiki, Machining, Metal cutting

Described as a high speed and environmentally friendly solution, the Hitachi Seiki MS 400H compact horizontal machining centre (Plate 2) has been developed specifically for high speed machining, with the ability to cut die cast aluminium parts as well as near, "net shape" or precision steel castings, often found in the aerospace industry.

Plate 2 Hitachi Seiki's MS 400H high speed machining centre is aimed at die and mould makers

High productivity and accuracy are claimed through the 22kW drive, an indexable table and three-axis moving column. Hitachi Seiki explains that it has been developed to encompass minimal lost production time with fast positioning based on rapid traverse rates and a cutting feedrate up to 40m/min. Included in the standard specification is Hitachi Seiki's X and Y-axis. Artificial Thermal Accuracy Compensation system. ATAC 10 is said to be able to counteract any effects of thermal distortion of the machine within a band of ±10 microns.

The twin, 400mm 400mm, pallets can accept workplaces up to 250kg and are reported to be exchanged by a rotary type changer in only eight seconds. As standard, a hydraulic power supply is incorporated in both pallets for quick connection to any hydraulic fixtures and simplifies production change-over.

The 30-station, bi-directional automatic tool changer is also reported to be fast with a tool-to-tool time of just 1.8 seconds. With a BT/DIN/CAT-40 taper, tools up to 95mm diameter by 300mm long and weighing up to 8kg can be used. The 22kW cooled spindle motor has been specifically developed for high speed machining techniques providing a stepless speed range between 60 and 12,000 revs/min.

A key element in the machine design is said to be its compact width of just 1,300 mm. It is considered that this makes it ideal for installation in a flexible production line, for instance, or as a stand-alone machining centre where floor space is at a premium. However, the narrow foot print does not restrict the component and fixturing capability, with travels of 510mm in the X, Y and Z axes.

Hitachi Seiki's "Eco-eco" range has been developed to feature self-lubricating ballscrews and guides which do not require any further oil replenishment. This design reportedly prevents loss of lubricating oil which reduces maintenance and prevents any cross-contamination between the lubricant and water soluble coolant. In addition, sump life should be able to be extended by some 400 to 500 per cent.

Details available from Hitachi Seiki UK Limited. Tel: +44 (0)1784 433711.