Methods Machine Tools recently donated the use of a FEELER VMP-580 CNC VMC and a FEELER HT30-Y turning center to Ivy Tech Community College's Orthopedic and Advanced Manufacturing Training Center (OAMTC) in Warsaw, IN.
Methods is providing the new machines to Ivy Tech for instructional use in its curriculum during the 2012-13 academic year, and in its Advanced Manufacturing program and the Orthopedic Quality Standards and Technical Skills certificate program. Methods intends to replace the machines with the latest models in subsequent academic years.
"This generous donation from Methods ensures that Ivy Tech students will always be training on the most up-to-date, state-of-the-art equipment available," said Ivy Tech North Central Chancellor Thomas Coley. "Coursework and training at the OAMTC already meets rigorous standards and students will now have the added value of experience on always-current machines. Employers who hire our graduates will also see the benefit of new employees who have a wider range of machine related experience."
"One of the key issues facing our industry is the shortage of skilled, qualified machinists," said Dale Hedberg, FEELER Product Manager at Methods. "Over the years, we have partnered with different technical schools, colleges and universities across the country to help train the workforce. The students get a great education on high-tech equipment, the industry gets trained people and students leaving here know our equipment."
The FEELER machines feature extensive engineering by Methods Machine Tools, the exclusive FEELER importer in North America. Designed to provide users enhanced performance and value, FEELER machines are equipped for the medical, aerospace, energy and other industries.
The FEELER HT30-Y turning center features linear guideways on the X and Z-axis, 30 slant bed construction and a FANUC 18i-TD control. The HT30-Y machine offers a 3,500 RPM, 30 HP spindle with a hydraulic chuck diameter of 10" (254 mm) and a bar capacity of 3" (78 mm). X-axis travel is 7" + 3.2" (178 mm + 82 mm), Y-axis travel is 3.9" and +/- 2" (100 mm +/- 50 mm) and Z-axis travel is 31.3" (795 mm) on the HT30-Y. It also includes a 12-station turret and offers a maximum turning diameter of 14" (356 mm) and a maximum turning length of 27.75" (705 mm).
The FEELER VMP-580 machine features a 10,000 RPM spindle with 15 HP, linear guideways on X- and Y-axes and boxways on the Z-axis. X-axis travels range from 580 - 1,100 mm (23" - 43"), Y-axis travels range from 420 - 610 mm (16.5" - 24") and Z-axis travels are from 510 - 600 mm (20" - 23.6"). The VMP-580 also provides a 24-tool automatic tool changer and a standard FANUC 0i-MD control.
Ivy Tech Community College serves nearly 200,000 students annually and has campuses throughout Indiana. It offers degree programs and training that are aligned with the needs of its community along with courses and programs that transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana. It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association.
For more information contact:
Dale Hedberg
Methods Machine Tools, Inc.
65 Union Avenue
Sudbury, MA 01776
978-443-5388
dhedberg@methodsmachine.com
www.methodsmachine.com