Five-Axis HMC Handles Heat-Resistant Materials

Available from Methods Machine Tools, the Yasda YBM 7Ti five-axis horizontal machining center features a rotary table and rigid machine structure for high-performance machining of heat-resistant materials such as titanium and Inconel. The HMC is equipped with a 10,000-rpm, 50-taper spindle and features a direct-drive system designed to keep cutting forces away from the spindle motor for consistency and repeatability. The Yasda spindle system automatically adjusts the preload to the spindle bearings, enabling a range of cutting capabilities.

The HMC features a 25-ton H-shaped steel base designed to absorb cutting force and minimize machine vibration. X-, Y- and Z-axis travels measure 49.2" × 39.4" × 43.3" (1,250 × 1,000 × 1,100 mm). The machine offers vertical rotation of 360 degrees and horizontal rotation of ±100 degrees. All linear axes feature hand-scraped and hardened slide box ways that enable rapid feed rates as fast as 48 m/min. According to Methods, the mating faces of the guideways are about double the width of more traditional linear guideways for improved performance. According to Methods, positioning accuracy is ±0.005 mm (0.0002") in the X, Y and Z axes, and ±1 sec. (measured in degrees) on the A/B rotary and tilting axis.

The two-pallet system features 19.7" × 19.7" (500 × 500-mm) pallets with a maximum loading capacity of 1,102 lbs (500 kg) on each pallet. Maximum part size is 24.8" (630 mm) in diameter and 19.7" (500 mm) in height. A Yasda curvic coupling system with large-diameter circle gears supports the back side of the pallet, maintaining the pallet center accuracy. The automatic toolchanger accommodates 240 tools. The HMC also is equipped with a FANUC FS31i-B5 control.