Latest Nakamura multi-tasking mill-turning centre boasts faster cycle times

The WT-150 II's specification includes 12-station upper and lower turrets with half-index capability for a total of 96 static tools (24 milling tool stations), and 65 mm bar capacity, 800 mm between spindles, maximum tool swing of 570 mm and 70 mm Y-axis. In 2000 the WT-150 offered Nakamura's cycle time-reducing concept of twin opposed spindles, served by top and bottom turrets that could work on either spindle, in a low centre of gravity rigid and stable compact machine. This allowed the twin spindles to be run at higher speeds with better accuracy while giving a longer trouble-free service life. Turning Technologies says the WT-150 II builds on these strengths and adds 25% faster X-axis travel, 60% faster programmable cutting feedrates and faster axis acceleration rates. The Nakamura-Tome Intelligent Programming System (NT-IPS) is hosted on a high specification PC that is built into the machine. It works in conjunction with the latest Fanuc 31i-B CNC to give a high degree of functionality coupled with fast processing speeds. The NT-IPS interface features a 19 inch touchscreen LCD display, QWERTY keyboard and touch pad alongside the standard MDI keys. It is designed to be easy to navigate and easy to understand, says Turning Technologies, and speeds up programming and makes it easy for users with no previous experience of twin-spindle, twin-turret mill-turning to take full advantage of these highly productive machines. Unlike conventional CNC interfaces, which involve extensive menu selections and navigation through numerous screens, the NT-IPS is able to present a large amount of information in a clear format and allow simple one-touch access to all setting functions. As well as speeding up the set-up and programming of the machine, the NT-IPS trouble guidance feature helps the user quickly identify and respond to machine error signals. It not only provides a description of the error and possible causes in plain English, but also brings up a series of pictures that show exactly where the problem might be. If it is a simple problem the service team can advise how to fix it straight away and get the machine back in production without delay. All machine manuals are stored in the on-board PC, which also allows refinements such as wireless, USB and network connectivity. Webcams can be mounted on the machine for remote monitoring during unmanned running and all job drawings and process plans can be downloaded to the machine and displayed on the screen – removing the need for paper drawings or route cards in the workshop. In addition to these enhancements, the WT-150 II also features more distance between the opposed spindles for greater component flexibility, reduced energy consumption for lower running costs and a redesigned guarding system with a lightweight door, large viewing window and LED work light for better visibility.