Multitasking Machine Automatically Loads/Unloads Parts
The Quick Turn 250SMY with GR100 gantry robot is one example of how Mazak’s flexible Quick Turn 200/250 Series of CNC turning centers can be configured to achieve high throughput. Main turning spindle serves as a full-functioning C-axis.
Posted: August 13, 2020
To help manufacturers achieve the highest possible throughput, Mazak Corp. (Florence, KY) designed the Quick Turn 200/250 Series of CNC turning centers as a flexible machine base that supports multiple production configurations. One example, the Quick Turn 250MSY multitasking turning center with GR100 gantry robot, offers “Done-In-One” part processing with automated part loading/unloading.
The robot requires no special robot/machine interface to integrate with any Quick Turn 200/250 Series machine, including the 2-axis, milling, Y-axis and/or second spindle versions; and is programmed via the machine’s Mazatrol SmoothG CNC. Two table configurations are available, as is end-of-arm tooling with three-jaw grippers.
The robot’s simple-to-configure, D3, two-sided, three-jaw gripping hand handles parts 7 inches in diameter, 6 inches long, and weighing 44 pounds. The D3 hand allows shops to load/unload a wide variety of chuck work.
To reduce machine idle time, a servo-driven automatic door allows robot entry into the machine envelope at a 3,937-ipm rapid rate on the robot’s A axis and 7,087-ipm rapid rate on its B axis.
The machine’s headstock features a 10-inch main chuck mounted on a 35-hp, 4,000-rpm integrated spindle motor that generates 343 ft-lbs of torque for heavy-duty metal removal. To accurately position parts for square-facing/slotting cuts and precisely drilled holes, the main turning spindle also serves as a full-functioning C-axis that’s programmable in 0.0001-degree increments. A second spindle with 15 hp, 6,000 rpm, and 6-inch chuck enables the machine to automatically transfer parts and perform secondary operations.
The machine’s 12-position, direct-drive turret eliminates the use of belts for improved part surface finishes and reduced maintenance. It can be configured with either VDI or bolt-on tooling. The turret’s rotary tool spindle delivers 10 hp; 6,000 rpm; and 52 ft-lbs of torque. With an optional tooling package, 10,000 rpm is available.
The two table configurations include a two-pallet changer that allows parts to be positioned in rows across each table and a 16-position rotary stocker system that stacks parts on each individual stocker. The two-pallet changer makes it possible for operators to access the pallet on one table while the other table is shuttled into the load/unload area for uninterrupted machine operation. The rotary table design with stacked parts allows for greater initial density of parts but without access during automatic operation. A discharge tray can be added for unloading specified parts for inspection.
