New twin-spindle, twin turret machine makes for part-processing speed and versatility
Florence, Kentucky, June 11, 2012 - Mazak will showcase the unsurpassed productivity and unattended production advantages of its new HYPER QUADREX 250MSY at IMTS 2012, taking place Sept. 10 - 15 in Chicago, Ill. For the first time at IMTS, the machine will be equipped with a bar feeder utilizing the MTConnect open communications protocol. Ideal for the automotive industry, this Multi-Tasking turning center delivers faster cycle times and better efficiencies than anything else in its class thanks to its advanced twin-spindle, twin turret machine construction.
The twin-spindle and twin-turret configuration of the HYPER QUADREX 250MSY gives automotive manufacturers unequaled part-processing opportunities, including enhanced Done-In-One capabilities where it can complete machining from slug material in a single setup. Additionally, the balance cutting of the upper and lower turrets provide the ultimate part throughput and ensure the manufacture of a wide range of workpieces.
The machine's twin opposed turning spindles can operate together or separately, allowing a single part to be machined on all surfaces through a coordinated "hand-off" between spindles, or two different parts can be machined simultaneously on one machine. The spindles are supported by large diameter bearings for high spindle rigidity. The main spindle features a 10" chuck, 3.58" spindle bore and 35 hp integral spindle motor that provides a maximum 4,000-rpm speed, while the second spindle has an 8" chuck, 2.55" spindle bore and a 30 hp integral spindle motor that offers a 5,000-rpm top speed. Both have full C-axis CNC control for part positioning and contouring with indexing increments of 0.0001 degrees.
Because the twin turrets operate independently or together on the same workpiece, the HYPER QUADREX 250MSY can simultaneously machine two different features on a workpiece or follow a balanced machining strategy where two tools work together on the same workpiece feature. In cases where the part configuration permits, balanced machining can remove up to 25 percent of the cycle time.
The HYPER QUADREX 250MSY features the new MAZATROL MATRIX 2 CNC control. Within the control are both enhanced hardware and software functionalities that make the control easy to use while also delivering high accuracy and increased productivity. Control hardware performance is much faster with higher processing speeds for small increment operation that provides shorter cycle times as well as superior surface finishes.
For continuous unmanned operations, the HYPER QUADREX 250MSY easily integrates with an optional bar feeder and robot loader. At IMTS, Mazak will demonstrate the machine with a bar feeder. And for the first time, show attendees will see MTConnect work in conjunction with the bar feeder. MTConnect is an open communications protocol that provides interconnectability in the manufacturing arena. This free and open protocol enables devices and systems from different suppliers to capture and share information in a common format. All Mazak CNC controls are MTConnect compliant and, together, allow Mazak customers to simplify the monitoring and management of their production systems as well as improve machine tool utilization and throughput.
As part of Mazak's Five Levels of Multi-Tasking, the HYPER QUADREX 250MSY is a Level 2 machine - those machines with Y-axis off-center machining. Mazak's Five Levels of Multi-Tasking allow manufacturers to precisely match machine capabilities to part processing requirements. Machine features and functionalities within the other four levels range from Level 1 with single spindle and rotating tool capabilities to Level 3 machines featuring independent milling spindle headstocks with B-axis indexing, as well as full Y-axis travels and tool storage, and from Level 4 machines with full simultaneous 5-axis capability to Level 5 Ultra-Tasking machines with additional specialized machining functions and Multi-Tasking automation.
Mazak will demonstrate more than 20 machines at IMTS, and will unveil a new booth that displays everything manufacturers need to run a highly productive, quality driven business, whether they operate a job shop or manufacture specifically for the aerospace, automotive, energy or medical industries.