Okuma explained the great success since its introduction in the 1960s with its systematic advancement and the growing interest from new industries: where previously the pressing tool and industrial machine industries were primarily supplied, more and more machines have recently gone to the semi-conductor and electronics industries and to companies that are involved in the generation of renewable energies, for example with wind turbines.
Whether it is a shortage of skilled workers or the goal of climate neutrality, Okuma said that with its intelligent double-column machining centres numerous companies worldwide are already able to respond successfully to current and future challenges. For example, automation contributes to increased productivity even when the workforce is tight.
Okuma said the MCR series includes the right machine for all requirements. The MCR-S stands out for its external dynamics and particularly high dimensional accuracy as well as surface quality in tool and mould making for the automotive, aviation, aerospace and semiconductor industries. A maximum torque of 2,025 Nm means the MCR-C offers highly efficient roughing up to high-precision finishing for large parts of heavy industry.
The MCR-BV makes absolute precision possible even with long running times, whether it be for the high-performance milling of steel and cast parts or for the highly efficient machining of aluminium. As an especially space-saving machine, the MCR-A5CII offers the possibility of 5-sided machining and assures high productivity in the fabrication of general parts and high-precision applications.
Other technologies also increase productivity and support stable long-term operation such as 3D calibration with a diagnostic function that ensures a high level of accuracy over prolonged periods of time. If the machine accuracy declines over the course of the year, it can be calibrated and adjusted semi-automatically. More than 100 different attachment heads enable numerous different machining operations with the highest performance and productivity levels.
Okuma said that it is also driving decarbonisation forward.
"All around the world, companies are now faced with the challenge of operating in the most climate-friendly way possible while still being economical," said Norbert Teeuwen, managing director of Okuma Europe. "Our smart machines support this effort with their innovative, energy-saving technologies."
Okuma has introduced technologies that it said saves energy including a 'Thermo-Friendly Concept' that means no additional cooling systems are required; an ECO Suite Plus that reduces energy consumption by up to 40% per year – and CO2 emissions – in a number of ways; and an optional sludge-free tank reduces waste coolant while saving time and effort in cleaning the coolant tank.
Okuma machine tools are available in the UK from Thames Ditton based NCMT.
