RK International expands Europa Milltechs appeal with Heidenhain TNC320 controls

The addition of the Heidenhain TNC320 control has involved a re-engineering rather than a simple retrofit. It will enable the Europa Milltech to be used for prototype and low volume jobs that can then be easily transferred to Heidenhain controlled machining centres when higher volume runs are called for. The TNC320 can be programmed using Heidenhain's conversational, FK free contour or via external programming software. These programs can be transferred to other machines using standard USB, fast Ethernet and RS232 data transfer interfaces. Programs can also be imported from any Heidenhain control above the TNC155 system. As part of its upgraded package, Europa Milltechs will be equipped with modern, high torque servo motors and drives, high accuracy C5 ballscrews, and the entire electrics/electronics package is sourced and engineered in the UK. All elements will be UK-supported by RK international Machine Tools and Heidenhain (GB). Under CNC control, the machine axes are fully automated giving total control over 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. RK International has fitted the Z-axis with a Heidenhain linear scale for improved accuracy when the machine is being used under manual control. Europa Milltech machines come in two spindle options, with the 2000VS having an R8 taper and the 5000VS an ISO 40 taper. Spindle speed ranges from 75 to 3,800 rpm. The 2000VS has a 1,244 by 230 mm table, X and Y travels of 755 and 300 mm respectively, a vertical traverse of 405 mm and Z-axis quill travel of 110 mm. The corresponding figures for the 5000VS are 1,370 by 254 mm, 820 mm X-axis, 430 mm Y-axis, 430 mm vertical traverse and 110 mm Z-axis.