Doosan sliding-head technology available from September

The introduction of the 20 mm bar diameter ST20G and 32 mm bar ST32G lathes represent a major new initiative for Mills CNC, the exclusive distributor of Doosan machines in the UK and Ireland. Says Andrew Jack, Mills CNC's technical director: "Up until now, UK and Irish manufacturers were not able to acquire Doosan sliding-head machines. "After extensive research into our markets to assess likely demand, and through discussions with Doosan to identify the most suitable sliding-head models from their range, we are now stocking and selling, from September 2013, the high performance, versatile, reliable and cost-competitive ST20G and ST32G machines." Both machine models are are equipped with the latest Fanuc 31iB CNC, which offers 7-axis capability to handle the machining of small complex, high precision parts. Doosan sliding-head machines are powerful and fast, and offer a comprehensive range of standard and optional features. The ST20G is equipped with a 2.2/3.7 kW 10,000 rpm main spindle, and the larger ST32G lathe, with a 5.5/7.5 kW 8,000 rpm main spindle. Both are built-in type motors, which are oil cooled. Both machines feature sub-spindle capability (1.5/2.2 kW 8,000 rpm and 2.2/3.7 kW 8,000 rpm respectively), and the machines' rapid rates are is 32m/min for all axes. The machines feature a flexible tooling configuration, designed to optimise cycle times and handle the most complex workpieces. In addition, interference between adjacent tools has been minimised to reduce the need for removing tools at set-up changeover. On both machines, the standard tooling specification/configuration is: six static turning tools; four static front tools; five cross milling (rotary) tools including milling holders (four tools on the ST32G); two static and two milling holders on the back tool post; and two static sleeves for deep hole drilling. Special toolholders are available for functions such as thread whirling, adjustable angled milling, polygon turning and slitting saw applications. The machines have servo-driven synchronised guide bushes as standard, with Doosan's own 'Magic Guide Bush' as an option to handle non-ground bar. In addition, all machines brought into the UK will have preparation for 160 bar cutting oil supply. The latest Fanuc 31iB CNC includes many special features to assist the operator, such as Auto Collet Adjustment, Auto Cut-Off Cycle, Tool Setup Self Check and Tool Life Management. The new Doosan sliding-head lathes will be available to customers from September 2013 and, in addition to the machines themselves, Mills will also offer auxiliary equipment/technology, including bar feeders, swarf conveyors, high pressure coolant systems, mist extraction units, fire suppression, tool monitoring and more.