NBV

April 01, 2010

MAG Industrial Automation Systems says the new NBV vertical machining center is as noteworthy for what it doesn't have as what it has. Eliminating all hydraulics, this compact VMC is flush with modular application flexibility, including configurations for 3-, 4- and 5-axis contouring or 5-axis mill/turn work, integrated CAM support and program simulation, and four spindle options ranging up to 42,000 rpm. In addition to its hydraulic-free design, the NBV conserves energy with a selectable ECO-Mode power saving feature that automatically levels speed and acceleration for an ideal balance of cutting performance, energy use and machine-component life, according to the company. In a footprint of 9.6 sq. m (133.5 sq. ft.), the fixed-table NBV 400 provides X-Y-Z ranges of 700mm x 600mm x 500mm (27.6" x 23.6" x 19.7"), respectively, with table capacity of 300 kg (661 lbs.) [250 kg/551 lb in mill/turn configuration]. Spindle options include speeds of 10,000, 12,000 (mill/turn only), 18,000, 24,000 and 42,000 rpm, offering a torque range of 125 to 12.4 Nm (92 to 9 ft.-lbs.) at 40 percent duty. A disc-type 40-tool magazine integrated in the machine bed maximizes in-cut time with fast direct tool change (4.4 secopnds chip-to-chip), without a separate toolchanger. The hydraulic-free system clamps tools with proven disc springs. FEA-optimized for static and dynamic stiffness, the NBV is built on a single-piece cast machine bed that provides high rigidity and vibration damping. Linear guideways on X,Y and Z axes enhance machine dynamics, even with larger workpieces. High-performance machining is achieved with direct-coupled digital drives, delivering rapid traverse rates up to 60 m/min. (2,362 ipm) and acceleration up to 6 m/s2 (19.7 ft/s2). An NC tilting/rotary table provides optional A and C axes with +/- 5 arc second accuracy, minimizing movement of the linear axes in contour machining. The mill/turn version includes a 1,000-rpm C-axis table as well. Control options for the NBV 400 include Siemens, Bosch Rexroth, Fanuc and Heidenhain. The NBV 400 is a self-contained unit, making for easy transportation, rigging and setup. Automation and other processing options, including MQL/dry machining, robot load/unload systems and additional tool-disc magazines, can be integrated.

Related Glossary Terms

  • computer-aided manufacturing ( CAM)

    computer-aided manufacturing ( CAM)

    Use of computers to control machining and manufacturing processes.

  • dynamic stiffness

    dynamic stiffness

    Measure of a machining system’s ability to dampen vibration from a forced input. If the dynamic stiffness of a system is not sufficient to dampen vibration, chatter occurs. See static stiffness; stiffness.

  • machining center

    machining center

    CNC machine tool capable of drilling, reaming, tapping, milling and boring. Normally comes with an automatic toolchanger. See automatic toolchanger.

  • numerical control ( NC)

    numerical control ( NC)

    Any controlled equipment that allows an operator to program its movement by entering a series of coded numbers and symbols. See CNC, computer numerical control; DNC, direct numerical control.

  • rapid traverse

    rapid traverse

    Movement on a CNC mill or lathe that is from point to point at full speed but, usually, without linear interpolation.

  • stiffness

    stiffness

    1. Ability of a material or part to resist elastic deflection. 2. The rate of stress with respect to strain; the greater the stress required to produce a given strain, the stiffer the material is said to be. See dynamic stiffness; static stiffness.

  • toolchanger

    toolchanger

    Carriage or drum attached to a machining center that holds tools until needed; when a tool is needed, the toolchanger inserts the tool into the machine spindle. See automatic toolchanger.