Ajax Machine Tools International unveils UK-built 5-axis machining centre plus low-cost CNC lathe range

The same event also saw the company officially launch of the six-machine Ajax Evolution 3 Series CNC lathes that starts with a swing over bed of 360 mm, a centre height of 180 mm and 750 mm between centres with a 24-month warranty for just £21,200. The V700i 5X is fitted with high specification iTNC 620 Heidenhain control and boasts an 18 kW, 10,000 rpm spindle (12,000 rpm/20 bar coolant option), chiller, a 200 mm diameter rotary/tilt table, 24-tool magazine, has a table size of 800 by 400 mm and axis travels of 700 mm in X, 400 mm in Y and 550 mm in Z with the option of greater Z-axis travel of 650 mm. The 200 mm rotary table can hold 80 kg and rotate at up to 33 rpm. Rotational index accuracy is within + 30 arc-sec, tilt accuracy within + 45 arc-sec and repeatability within 4 arc-sec. Included in the specification package is a complete 200 litre coolant system with oil skimmer and spiral swarf conveyor. The Ajax Evolution 3 Series sees included in the specification an automatic 8-station turret, tailstock, automatic speed range change and Fanuc drives to match the Fanuc OiTD Mate touch-screen control with Turnmate i software. With the touchscreen feature, Ajax says this makes the machine "the easiest to use on the market today, where a beginner is quickly able to pick up the use of the different cycles". Also, with full ISO programming and RS 232 communication port, the machine has the ability to be used in manual cycle mode through the electronic hand wheel. The machine range is built on heavy duty beds each with hardened and ground ways, and spans centre heights from 180 mm on the Evolution 3 AJEV 180 to 500 mm on the largest AJEV 500. Bed widths and lengths, depending on model, are from 250 mm by 750 mm to 500 mm by 5,000 mm. The largest machine in the series weighs in at 10 tonnes.