RK International adds full CNC to re-engineered Europa turret mill range

The Europa Milltech range of turret mills has been a staple element of Kent-based RK International's machine tool portfolio for many years, but the addition of the Heidenhain TNC320 is more than just a simple retrofit, as the machines have been re-engineered with the latest Heidenhain CNC control in mind. With the addition of the Heidenhain TNC320 control, "huge potential" for the Europa Milltech machines has been given for their use in prototype and low-volume machining of components, that can then be easily transferred to Heidenhain controlled machining centres for higher volume runs. "We have worked closely with Heidenhain in the UK over a period of time to ensure that the TNC320 is the ideal solution to take the Europa Milltech machines to the next level of performance," says Simon Rood, sales manager, RK International Machine Tools. "The controls suitability for series or single part production in a variety of manufacturing environments, along with the simplicity of the Heidenhain conversational programming system, will bring major benefits to our customers, who are already placing orders for the machines." The TNC 320 control is powerful and can be programmed using Heidenhain's conversational programming, FK free contour programming or via external external programming software. These programs can be transferred to other machines by means of the standard USB, fast Ethernet and RS 232. Programs can be imported from any Heidenhain control, above the TNC155 system, and programs can then be exported to any Heidenhain equipped machining centre. As part of the upgrade package, each machine is also equipped with high torque servo motors and drives; high accuracy C5 ballscrews, while the entire electric/electronic package is sourced and engineered in the UK. All of which will be UK-supported by RK International Machine Tools and Heidenhain (GB). Under CNC control, the machine axes are fully automated giving total control for the machining of complex details and forms. The operator is able to edit and monitor the performance of the machine on the control's 15 inch TFT screen. But users still have the option to use the Europa Milltech in full manual mode and, for additional control in this method of operations, RK International has fitted the Z-axis with a Heidenhain linear scale for increased accuracy. This combination of full manual or CNC control is said to provide an ideal package for a wide target market, which includes companies producing one-offs and small batch production, toolmakers, R&D and prototype manufacturing, maintenance and educational and training facilities. The range of Europa Milltech machines includes two spindle options, with the 2000VS machine having a R8 taper, while the larger 5000VS having an ISO 40 taper. Basic specifications of the machines are a table size 1,244 by 230 mm and 1,370 by 254 mm; X-axis travel of 755 mm and 820 mm; Y-axis travel of 300 mm and 430 mm; vertical traverse of 405 mm and 430 mm; and a Z-axis quill travel of 110 mm and 125 mm. Spindle speed range is from 75 to 3800 rpm. Workpiece and tool measurement options, with the range of Heidenhain probes being fully integrated into the control, along with electronic handwheels and the Heidenhain TNC320 Programming Station for offline programming and testing, are also available for increased productivity.