5-AXIS Gantry Machines Large Non-Ferrous Parts
Triumph Aerostructures is installing two of these 5-axis Precision Mill-and-Trim vertical gantry mills from MAG for machining large composite or non-ferrous parts on existing X-axis rails as part of its Hawthorne plant modernization.
Posted: January 29, 2013
The PMT design and capabilities are based on “voice of the customer” requirements for an affordable, multi-purpose platform for fast, accurate large-part finishing processes. The machine’s unlimited X-axis is complemented by its configurable Y-axis of 2 to 6 m, Z-axis of 1, 1.5 or 2 m, feedrates up to 60 m/min; 5-sided part access; and optional precision scale feedback.
The compact dual-axis rotary spindle head is powered by direct-drive torque motors with encoder feedback, providing 220 deg of A-axis tilt and standard 550 deg of C-axis rotation. Options are available for additional or continuous C-axis rotation. The travel ranges provide flexibility to position the cutter to almost any orientation for precision contour machining.
The PMT’s rail-type configuration allows a variety of workholding systems to be adapted, including the unique Flexitool universal workholding system. The Flexitool system consists of modular table sections equipped with programmable vertical actuators tipped with swiveling vacuum end effectors that adjust to almost any part shape, so nests of various part shapes can be machined in multiple workzones.
To manage large volumes of chips and reduce maintenance, the machine’s X-axis ways have steeply pitched covers that shed chips naturally. The machine’s sides are fully enclosed, with large sliding doors on the ends to allow easy access for part loading or inspection. A retractable roof enclosure is available as an option, as is a patent-pending, high-efficiency vacuum system for source-caption of cutting debris.
Five different motorized spindles are available beginning with a standard 22,000 rpm/20 kW and ranging up to 30,000 rpm/42 kW. These high-performance, precision spindles feature an HSK A63 tool interface designed for maximum load and speed. Tool changers can be located at a position of the customer’s choice and include gantry-mounted, disc-type units with 18-24 pockets, or larger capacity chain-type toolchangers in the work zone.
The PMT is available with a Siemens 840sl or Fanuc 31i CNC. Other options to optimize part processing include waterjet cutting head, coolant supply/filtration systems, mist/dust collection systems, video monitoring, probing and others.
MAG is a leading machine tool and systems company serving the durable goods industry worldwide with complete manufacturing solutions for metal cutting and composites applications. With a strong foundation based upon renowned brands such as Boehringer, Cincinnati, Cross & Trecker, Ex-Cell-O, Fadal, Forest Liné, Giddings & Lewis, Hessapp, Honsberg, Hüller Hille, Lamb, Modul and Witzig & Frank, MAG is recognized as the preeminent provider of tailored production solutions based on state-of-the-art technology. Key industrial markets served include aerospace, automotive and truck, heavy equipment, oil and gas, rail, solar energy, wind turbine production and general machining.
With manufacturing and support operations strategically located worldwide, MAG offers comprehensive lines of equipment and technologies including turning, milling, hobbing, grinding, honing, systems integration, composites processing, cryogenic machining, maintenance, automation and software, tooling and fluids, and core components. www.mag-ias.com