Brother 5-axis Speedio M140X1 BT30 version of popular turning and milling configuration
1 min read
Japanese company Brother has developed its own BT30 version of the proven 5-axis, vertical-spindle machining centre with turning capability, employing a rotary table on an integrated, swivelling trunnion. The Brother Speedio M140X1, however, has the added advantage of very fast, simultaneous axis movements. Available in the UK from Whitehouse Machine Tools, it provides a 200 by 440 by 305 mm working volume for parts up to 40kg and occupies approximately 1.3 by 3.6 m of floor space.
The specification of the Brother Speedio M140X1 includes a 10,000 rpm, 18.9 kW, 40 Nm spindle, roller drive for the C-axis table, +5 / -95º trunnion (A-axis) swivel, 50 m/min rapids in all linear axes and optional high pressure through-spindle coolant. The 0.9 sec tool change from the 22-position magazine mounted around the column gives a 1.4 sec chip-to-chip time.
With a static tool in the spindle, parts on the table can be turned at up to 2,000 rpm, powered by a 4.2 kW rotary direct drive with 55 Nm of torque. Turning can take place with the table either vertical or horizontal.
Brother has striven to eliminate non-productive time. For example, not only are speeds fast for the non-cutting motions, but they also take place simultaneously in X, Y, Z, A and C, together with the tool change. The spindle motor's rapid acceleration/deceleration and a highly responsive servo control enable a 0.2 sec start/stop time. Start-up time of the turning table, from zero to the 2,000 rpm maximum, is less than 0.3 sec.
Accessibility for loading and unloading is ergonomic, the operator having to reach forward less than half a metre to position a workpiece on the centre of the table. The 555 mm door opening can be automated for high production environments or to automate load/unload. Swarf management measures are comprehensive in line with a machine that is likely to handle large volumes of aluminium swarf.
The C00 control, designed to facilitate productive accurate machinining, especially in 3D, has built-in PLC features that include shortcut keys for rapid screen selection, program data download via Ethernet at high speed, and convenient production monitoring, both on-screen and remotely.