Machining Centers

May 01, 2010

With the continuing evolution of machining requirements to satisfy new aircraft and power generation production needs, Mitsui Seiki USA Inc. has released several new 4- and 5-axis machining centers. While market conditions were sluggish, Mitsui Seiki was seriously investing in new product development. The results of this effort are several successes in large machine installations at major aerospace and energy OEMs. These companies make air frame components, propulsion systems, landing gear assemblies, wind turbine gear boxes, and gas turbine power generation systems. New features and specifications for their 5-axis horizontal machining centers include up to 2500mm (98.4") work diameter capacity, 3 tonnes (6,600 lbs.) work/fixture weight capacity, variety of increased axis stroke options, larger pallet sizes than previous models (1,200mm square, 1,200mm x 1,500mm, 1,900mm diameter), ultrahigh-torque spindles (2,700Nm — 1,990 lbs.-ft. continuous), tuned structure for heavy cutting in hard metals, large capacity FMS systems, and latest Fanuc 30i CNC with enhanced features for 5-axis machining. Further, Mitsui Seiki adds to the capacity of its line up of 4-axis machining centers, including new quill-type spindles for deep-boring operations, 5 and 10 tonnes (11,000 and 22,000 lbs.) work/fixture weight capacity, up to 3m (118") axis stroke, ultrahigh-torque spindles (2,700Nm — 1,990 lbs.-ft. continuous), tuned structure for heavy cutting in hard metals, large capacity FMS systems, and the latest Fanuc 30i CNC with enhanced features for precision machining.

Related Glossary Terms

  • centers

    centers

    Cone-shaped pins that support a workpiece by one or two ends during machining. The centers fit into holes drilled in the workpiece ends. Centers that turn with the workpiece are called “live” centers; those that do not are called “dead” centers.

  • computer numerical control ( CNC)

    computer numerical control ( CNC)

    Microprocessor-based controller dedicated to a machine tool that permits the creation or modification of parts. Programmed numerical control activates the machine’s servos and spindle drives and controls the various machining operations. See DNC, direct numerical control; NC, numerical control.

  • flexible manufacturing system ( FMS)

    flexible manufacturing system ( FMS)

    Automated manufacturing system designed to machine a variety of similar parts. System is designed to minimize production changeover time. Computers link machine tools with the workhandling system and peripherals. Also associated with machine tools grouped in cells for efficient production. See cell manufacturing.

  • precision machining ( precision measurement)

    precision machining ( precision measurement)

    Machining and measuring to exacting standards. Four basic considerations are: dimensions, or geometrical characteristics such as lengths, angles and diameters of which the sizes are numerically specified; limits, or the maximum and minimum sizes permissible for a specified dimension; tolerances, or the total permissible variations in size; and allowances, or the prescribed differences in dimensions between mating parts.