Methods Machine Tools, Inc. will feature 40 machine tools and automation technologies in its booth. The full range of precision machine tools from Methods, including YASDA, KIWA-Japan, Nakamura-Tome, FANUC, FEELER and SIGMA will feature new machine tool lines, models, demonstrations, capabilities and advanced automation.
A new line of YASDA precision machining centers making their U.S. trade show debut include an H40i-24PLS 5-axis high precision machining center designed for repeatability and accuracy; a YMC 430 5-axis micro center featuring linear motor driven controlled axes and a rigid structure for high speed, precision and surface quality machining; two heavy-duty vertical jig boring-milling machines, including the YBM 640V3 3-axis and v40i 5-axis models, and a YBM7Ti two-pallet horizontal 5-axis machine. Methods will also unveil a newly designed YASDA machine that is the result of close collaboration between Methods and YASDA engineers to meet the requirements of the North American market.
The new KIWA-Methods KMH series now offers pallet sizes ranging from 300 mm to 1,250 mm. The new, compact KMH-300 30-taper, 15,000 RPM, 300 mm dual pallet machine and new KMH-630B 50-taper, 10,000 RPM, 630 mm dual pallet changer model will be among the KIWA machines on display. In addition, the KIWA-Japan KH-Series will feature the introduction of the KH-55 500 mm dual pallet model, with 10k RPM, Cat 50 taper and a newly expanded 240 tool ATC. The next generation KH-45 series will also be introduced, including the new KH-4500 shown as a PC6 version with increased rapid rates to 74 m/min and a newly developed ball drive system for the 4th axis which, according to the company, provides no backlash, resulting in higher rigidity and longer axis life.
Nakamura-Tome multitasking turning centers on display will include the NTJ-100 twin spindle with a B-axis upper turret and Y-axis lower turret. The NTY3-250 multitasking turning center offers three high rigidity turrets, each with a Y-axis of 4.4" (112 mm).
The new AS-200 high performance multitasking turning center features a single spindle, single turret with milling and Y-axis as standard. The AS-200 will be shown in a Methods Lathe JobShop Cell offering a pre-engineered, flexible cell that, according to the company, is ideal for manufacturers who want to incorporate automation into their operations for the first time.
Now available to Nakamura users, a new FANUC control with WINDOWS 8.0 software provides an easy-to-use touchscreen with access to full programming and troubleshooting manuals on a large 19" screen. Nakamura includes comprehensive NT-Nurse software that is designed to provide user-friendly operation, programming and production support and facilitate easy part set-ups with no fixtures required. For safety, overload detection via an airbag reduces any impact due to machine collision. Nakamura multitasking turning centers are equipped with the CAMplete TruePath Turn/Mill software suite. CAMplete Truepath software allows several machine tool, tooling and workholding parameters to be analyzed and optimized using detailed 3D Nakamura turning center models.
FANUC RoboDrill machining centers, including FANUC D-Series RoboDrills featuring FANUC's 31iB series control, will be under power. FANUC RoboDrills will be demonstrated with a pallet changer model, including a 4th axis shuttle package designed to allow for longer unattended operation or quick part change over. A D21LiA 5-axis machine featuring the RTT-112 direct drive tilt/rotary axis linear table from Tsudakoma will be shown. Additionally, there will be a demonstration of the FANUC DDR-T linear 4th axis with tailstock and trunnion fixture. Several automation technologies will also be featured, including a RoboDrill Twin Cell with vision loading and a 5-axis JobShop Cell.
FANUC RoboCut wire EDMs featuring the FANUC RoboCut a-CiA series include the C400iA and C600iA wire EDMs with new capabilities. New volumetric taper compensation (TPCMP) with 4-axis over burn control is being introduced on the FANUC RoboCut a-CiA series with a CNC FANUC series 31i-WB control. This new taper compensation feature offers enhanced taper accuracy and works with any material, thickness or angle within machine specifications. A new single access FANUC-built CCR rotary table is now available on FANUC RoboCut EDMs. The new rotary table also offers a water leak monitoring function that shuts the machine down upon water detection to minimize water-related repairs.
FEELER high performance milling and turning centers include the new FT-250SY 4-axis milling lathe. The FT-250SY features a true Y-axis with 100 mm (+/- 50 mm) of travel. An 8" sub-spindle is offered in addition to the primary 10" spindle, providing more capacity on the FT-250SY. Also, the new SBM 2000 universal milling machine with articulated head and integrated 4th axis will be among the nine FEELER machines on the floor. The FEELER High Performance line includes vertical machining centers, turning centers including vertical turning lathes and bridge / boring mills, all which will be demonstrated.
The new SIGMA TANDEM line of palletized VMCs are being introduced at IMTS, and will feature the SIGMA TANDEM 6A machining center that is designed to provide in one platform enhanced flexibility for job shops and OEMs. SIGMA is one of four Italian machine tool builders (SIGMA, JOBS, Sachman and Rambaudi) that Methods is introducing in the U.S.
Automation will include several pre-engineered automation solutions, including the RoboDrill JobShop Cell featuring 5-axis machining and efficient part loading / unloading, useful for aerospace and medical manufacturers. A RoboDrill Twin Cell featuring two FANUC RoboDrills being serviced by a single robot and optimizing loading / unloading time will be under power.
Attendees can learn about "Automation for Lower Volume Parts" during the presentation by Methods' Automation Manager John Lucier at the Systems Integration IMTS Technology Conference on Tuesday, September 9, 10 AM - 10:55 AM in the WEST Building - Level 1.
Current EDM with be demonstrating CNC EDM drilling of small holes on the CT-400 machine. Metrology solutions will include the VisionGauge Digital Optical Comparator 500 and new 700 and 400 Series. The VisionGauge 700 Series is a full 5-axis inspection and measurement system ideal for the aerospace industry. Making its debut at IMTS, the 400 Series VisionGauge Digital Optical Comparator is suited for low-volume applications. Attendees can also learn about the applications, automation, parts, service, tooling and training offered by Methods, as well as financing specials and services.
For more information contact:
James Hanson
Methods Machine Tools, Inc.
65 Union Avenue
Sudbury, MA 01776
978-443-5388
jhanson@methodsmachine.com
www.methodsmachine.com
IMTS 2014 Booth S-9119