Five-Axis Machine for Aerospace, Defense

The high-efficiency Mikron HEM 500U from GF AgieCharmilles provides five-axis capabilities for accurate and reliable parts production. The milling machine is suitable for cutting parts out of aluminum, alloys and steel for applications such as aerospace and defense work. According to the company, the machine’s small footprint makes it well-suited for tight setup areas in small job shops or large production plants. Loading and unloading can be accomplished via a forklift instead of a crane.

 

The machine features a 12,000-rpm spindle and a 30-tool magazine said to provide 2-sec. chip-to-chip times. A 20,000-rpm spindle and 60-tool changer are also available. The X-, Y- and Z-axis travels measure 19.7"× 17.7" × 15.7" (500 × 450 × 400 mm), respectively. The trunnion table measures 19.7" (500 mm) in diameter and accommodates workpieces weighing as much as 440 lbs (200 kg). The table tilts +50/-110 mm in the B axis and rotates 360 degrees in the C axis for 3+2 machining and five-sided positioning. A distance of 5.9" (150 mm) between the machine spindle nose and rotary table surface increases maneuverability around workpieces.

 

The machine’s C-frame structure supports a cross-sledge for transversal X and Y movements. All three linear axes are located on a sturdy block that houses the B-axis, the company says. The vertical Z movement, which contains the inline spindle, mounts to the rigid Y-axis column. A Heidenhain iTNC 530 control for five-axis (3+2) machining features an integrated digital drive control with an integrated inverter, enabling accurate workpiece contouring at high velocity, the company says. The machine is also equipped with machining modules for monitoring production.