CNC lathe has two B-axis turrets

German turning machine manufacturer Index has introduced a new, twin-spindle mill-turn centre on which it is possible to machine, for example, the 5-axis elements of two compressor blades in both spindles at the same time, using two B-axis turrets.

Alternatively, reverse-end 5-axis machining of a parted-off component can be carried out, after synchronous pick-up in the second spindle. This unusual level of versatility of the R200 is provided by two B-axis milling spindles, one above the spindle centreline and the another other below it, working in conjunction with the main and counter- spindles, respectively. The configuration is a cost-effective alternative to using two 5-axis machining centres for the production of complex components up to 175 mm diameter when chucking or 65 mm from bar. The main spindle moves in Z, the counter-spindle in X and Z, the upper milling spindle in X/Y/B and the lower milling spindle in Y/B. Taking into account the C-axis on both the main and counter- spindle, the result is a mill-turn centre with two independent 5-axis machining systems at either side. Two separate shuttle units independently load the two milling spindles with HSK-A40 tools from a common 80 or 120-station tool magazine. Short chip-to-chip times of approximately 4 sec contribute to minimising idle times. Two linear tool carriers fitted to the side of each milling spindle allow six stationary tools to be deployed immediately for turning operations, without the need for tool change. The machine has 11k/18,000 rpm milling spindles as well as 0.9 second acceleration to 5,000 rpm, enable highly productive machining. The flexibility and speed of the machine are helped by the B-axis swivel ranges of 270 and 230° and rapid traverse rates of 45 m/min. The specification for the identically rated work spindles include maximum power rating of 33 kW, maximum speed of 5,000 rpm and peak torque of 150 Nm. The Index SBL (Sliding Bar Loader) is designed for bar stock with a diameter of 20 to 65 mm and a length up to 3,000 mm. The large bar magazine supports extended unmanned operation. The C200-4D SL control is based on the proven Siemens Sinumerik S840D with Index customisation. VirtualLine software supports economical use of the new mill-turn centre, guiding the programmer and operator to the correct solution for the machining task. In conjunction with 3D simulation, machining programs can be created, checked, and optimised on a PC. CNC Programming Studio provides more advanced support for programming and operation.