Makino has recently introduced its A66E-5XD, a five-axis version of the
popular A66E machine which is ideal for the fast production of critical
aircraft engine components. The A66E-5XD can machine complicated shapes in
half the time of conventional five-axis processes in the production of
blisks, inducers, impellers and turbine engine parts.
Performance
Features
A number of impressive features can be found on the A66E-5XD-a reliable,
robust and productive member of the Makino A-Series machine line. It has a
tool-to-tool time of 0.9 to 1.1 seconds, depending upon tool weight, and a
chip-to-chip time of 2.9 seconds. And, the single casting B- and C-axis of
the A66E-5XD is an important consideration for inertia and the elimination
of tool interference and the enhancement of chip removal.
The large direct drive motors of the B- and C-axis assembly provide excellent
range of motion and high-speed operation. The B axis has a +180 degree/-100
degree range of motion. It operates at 75 RPM and swings through a 180
degree arc in 0.7 seconds. The C axis can continuously rotate in clockwise
or counterclockwise directions. It operates at 150 RPM, and can rotate
through a 180-degree arc in 0.4 seconds.
Built for Speed
The Makino A66E-5XD has an exceptional travel capacity and work zone for a
machine in this class. With an X-, Y-, Z-axis travel of 28.7 x 28.7 x 31.5
inches (730 x 730 x 800 mm), the machine has a work zone diameter and height
of 27.6 x 10.6 inches (700 x 269 mm). It can handle a load of 551 pounds
(250 kg). The rapid traverse rate of the A66E-5XD is 2,953 ipm (75 m/min.),
with a feedrate of 1,969 ipm (50 m/min.).
The repeatability of the A66E-5XD is +/- 0.00006 inches (0.0015 mm), and the
positioning +/- 0.00010 inches (0.0025 mm). It comes with a 40-taper,
14,000-RPM spindle as standard, with optional spindles of 12,000 RPM and
20,000 RPM. A V-flange toolholder is standard, with an HSK-A 63 interface
optional.
This new, five-axis design permits the A66E-5XD to blend exceptional
acceleration characteristics and minimal vibration with high-speed spindle
utilization, especially when milling tough, heat-resistant alloys such as
inconel, titanium and stainless steel. The A66E-5XD also features a
chain-type, 40-tool magazine standard, with larger magazines available from
60 to 313 tools optional.
The A66E-5XD Handles the
Heat
The A66E-5XD’s thermal control technology delivers enhanced spindle cooling,
ballscrew cooling and efficient coolant delivery, improving accuracy and
prolonging the lifespan of the machining center. Its patented core cooling
system and under race lubrication cool the spindle from the inside out,
eliminating the need for a warm-up cycle and keeping the spindle cooler than
its housing. That makes a greater bearing preload possible from a cold
start, allowing the A66E-5XD to cut immediately.
Core cooling of the ballscrew dissipates heat to prolong overall life of the
ballscrew and increase accuracy during use. Chilled oil is pumped through
the ballscrew to help it stay accurate at high speeds and keep the proper
tension on the screws for high performance and long-term superior volumetric
accuracy. In addition, the machine has a 210-gallon (800 L) coolant
capacity.
High-speed machining means more chips, which makes chip removal critical. The
A66E-5XD delivers with a 16.7-inch (425 mm wide) center trough design
positioned in the middle of the machining area. Overhead shower coolant
helps with the flushing and cooling of the work zone.
Copyright © 2001 - 2010 by Makino, Inc. All rights reserved.
