New Okuma machines from NCMT

Okuma has launched a new, multi-function machine for turning components with up to 22 kW of main spindle power and, in the same set-up, performing 5-axis machining operations using a milling spindle rated at up to 16 kW mounted on a swivelling, 225-degree B-axis. On show for the first time in the UK, the model at MACH will be the smallest in a series of machines with capacities from below 200 mm up to 1,000 mm diameter and up to six metres between centres.

Called Multus B200, the slant-bed lathe is capable of high accuracy machining in a normal shop floor environment, as tests have shown thermal deviation to be less than 10 microns over a 24-hour period despite a variation in ambient temperature of 8°C. This performance is a result of the application of Okuma's patented Thermo Friendly Concept to both the machine structure and the spindle, together with the use of 0.1 micron resolution linear scales in the orthogonal axes.

The machine has the added benefit of the manufacturer's new OSP-P200 control, which uses an industrially hardened PC to run both the Okuma operating system and Windows XP. A feature of the control is the most comprehensive collision prediction and avoidance system currently available. The entire machining area right out to the spindle head, slideways and guarding is monitored in real time during an automatic machining cycle or, unusually, in manual mode as well, preventing the axes being wound by hand into a collision situation.

Okuma Multus MU-500VA-L mill-turning centre

The mill-turning machine on show will be the established MU-500VA
5-axis vertical machining centre, to which has been added turning capability. The machine distinguishes itself by offering a table rotated by a direct drive motor at up to 1,000 rpm, or 12,000 rpm in lathe function, allowing components to be turned in conjunction with a static tool in the spindle.

The design is based on a fully integrated trunnion swivelling horizontally through +20 / -110 degrees and carrying a 360 degree rotary table. They respectively add A and C axes to an X,Y,Z envelope of 1,250 mm x 660 mm x 540 mm. Maximum weight of component that can be supported is 500 kg.

It is the speed and accuracy of the direct-drive rotary axes that sets this machine apart from the rest. Even trunnion rotation is fast at 50 rpm, repeatability being 0.001 degree. Both the trunnion and table are very robust, providing greater rigidity than add-on compound units.

Speed of operation extends to the linear axes, with 40 m/min rapid traverse in X and Y, 32 m/min in Z, the latter speed also being the maximum cutting feed rate throughout the entire working volume.

Spindle options are 11 or 22 kW, delivering up to 15,000 rpm, while table drive for turning is rated at 15 kW. There is also a choice of magazine capacity of 20, 32 or 48 stations, automatic tool change time being fast at 1.8 seconds.

Okuma LB3000EX C M 500 mill-turning centre

The third Okuma machine on the stand will also be new to MACH. It is the LB3000EX flagship 2-axis lathe which is being shown with optional C-axis and driven tooling. It is available in two bed lengths with distances between centres of 500 or 1,000 mm, although it is the former that will be exhibited. The machine offers a maximum turning diameter of 580 mm.

With X and Z rapid traverse rates of 25 and 30 m/min respectively, the machine was created with accuracy and flexibility in mind. The LB3000EX can be equipped with two spindle sizes (22/15 or 30/22 kW) and a Y-axis, allowing the lathe to be tailored to suit diverse applications.

The model on show will demonstrate Okuma’s collision avoidance system and one-touch Excel speadsheet function.