IMTS 2012: Simultaneous Two Part Machining with 5-Axis Subsystems
INDEX Corp.'s booth at IMTS 2012 will feature its R300 turning/milling center -- a new concept machine tool utilizing two independent 5-axis subsystems for complete, simultaneous machining of short bars and chucking.
The new INDEX R300 turning/milling center is the most recent addition to the RatioLine series and introduces a highly productive version for machining short bars up to 102 mm and chuck parts up to 315 mm in diameter. The R200 covers the range for bar diameters up to 65 mm.
The innovative axis arrangement of the INDEX R300 produces directional kinematics, which in turn enables comprehensive and complete machining.
The new INDEX R300 is geared toward applications where larger chuck parts require a large amount of milling and drilling work, such as machine and farm machinery construction, in tool and mold making or in the aerospace industry.
From very simple to highly complex components, the main benefit is that the complex machining operations are possible simultaneously on the front and rear side – and, at the same time, are highly productive with two motorized milling spindles. The use of HSK tools instead of live tool holders on turrets reduces tool costs.
Ideal for difficult milling operations, the R300 is also capable of hobbing or deep-hole drilling with single-lip tools and high-pressure coolant to 80 bar to the tool edge through the motorized milling spindle. Grinding operations with a grinding point or an external grinding wheel up to 150 mm are additional machining options.
With the addition of tool storage strips, the R300 is well-equipped for highly productive and flexible 5-axis machining, both on the main spindle with tool carrier 1 as well as on the counter spindle with tool carrier 2.
With both linear tool carriers attached to both sides of each milling spindle, the user has quick access to six stationary tools per spindle with high precision. This means that the developers have succeeded in combining the functionality of a turret with a milling spindle. This new development means that tool changes are no longer necessary, thus reducing the secondary processing time during turning. It also makes the production of highly precise fits easier.
