New Sidehead Option Gives VTCs Ideal Angle of Attack for Turning Work on Tall or Flanged Parts


Sidehead offers 1250 mm X-axis and 1900 mm Z-axis, with 40-tool chain magazine

Erlanger, KY - A new sidehead option on MAG vertical turning centers (VTCs) utilizes a 250-mm-square (10 inch) ram to deliver 34,000 N (7,600 pounds) thrust from the optimum angle for efficient turning of tall or flanged parts in vertical orientation. The sidehead option is available on machines with table size 1,250 to 3,500 mm (49.2 - 137.7 inches), capable of handling parts up to 3,700 mm (145.6 inches) maximum diameter and 3,300 mm (129.9 inches) height. The sidehead provides a 1,250 mm (49.2 inch) X-axis span and 1,900 mm (74.8 inch) Z-axis, with a traverse rate of 20,000 mm/min (787 ipm). It is equipped for automatic tool change with a 40-tool chain magazine, and available with modular Capto C8 or KM tool interface.

With tall shaft-type parts mounted on the machine table and supported by a live center in the main ram, the approach angle of the sidehead minimizes bending forces on the part and machine components during maximum-thrust cuts to allow faster, more efficient metal removal with highest accuracy. The sidehead also improves access for undercutting flanges or reaching features beneath them. The sidehead option is ideal for producing parts for the energy/power industry, heavy machinery, transportation and off-road equipment. It adds another level of one-stop processing capability to MAG VTCs, which can already be equipped for gear cutting and grinding.

One of the most versatile turning systems for large parts, MAG VTCs in table size 1,000 mm to 8,000 mm (39.4 - 315 inches) can already perform standard and hard turning, as well as live-spindle machining, contouring and part probing operations on multiple sides and the full diameter of a part. Full contouring with the C-axis enables drilling or mill turning of features anywhere on the workpiece, with contouring/positioning by a 360,000-position table. Standard features include use of modular tooling; green design with minimal hydraulics; minimal foundation requirements; and innovative chip management and removal that minimizes operator intervention.

The machines are FEA-designed for maximum strength-to-weight ratio, stiffness and rigidity, with heavily ribbed cast iron or robust steel weldments used for major components, such as base, column and cross slide, depending on the machine size. The adjustable cross slide, with MAG's unique leveling technique and patented rail clamping system, allows ram extension to be minimized to ensure highest rigidity and accuracy during high-thrust cuts. Adjustable-rail models use dual linear scales to ensure parallelism between table and rail, with leveling accuracy of 10 microns (0.0004 inches).

The machines use a thermally-symmetrical, hydrostatic main ram to resist torsion and vibration to produce superior surface finishes, delivering downward feed thrust up to 34,000 N (7,600 pounds). Preloaded roller guideways enhance system stiffness and reduce friction for excellent contouring accuracy.

Tables are extensively supported with a combination of tapered roller and flat thrust bearings to handle constant use at maximum load ratings. The table design resists tipping with unbalanced loads, and superior accuracy is ensured with factory-specified maximum 0.005 mm (0.0002 inch) table runout. Table drives are rated 46 kW (62 hp) to 142 kW (190 hp), and capable of producing maximum torque of 7,538 Nm (5,560 ft lb) to 255,000 Nm (188,000 ft lb).

A standard 26-position tool changer accommodates large, heavy boring bars and 20 modular tools. Various options for the VTC line include expanded tool capacity, part and tool probing systems, pallet changer and fourth axis. Fanuc 31i or Siemens 840D controls are standard.

About MAG

MAG is a leading machine tool and systems company serving the durable goods industry worldwide with complete manufacturing solutions for metal cutting and composites applications. With a strong foundation based upon renowned brands such as Boehringer, Cincinnati, Cross & Trecker, Ex-Cell-O, Fadal, Forest Liné, Giddings & Lewis, Hessapp, Honsberg, Hüller Hille, Lamb, Modul and Witzig & Frank, MAG is recognized as the preeminent provider of tailored production solutions based on state-of-the-art technology. Key industrial markets served include aerospace, automotive and truck, heavy equipment, oil and gas, rail, solar energy, wind turbine production and general machining.

With manufacturing and support operations strategically located worldwide, MAG offers comprehensive lines of equipment and technologies including turning, milling, hobbing, grinding, honing, systems integration, composites processing, maintenance, automation and software, tooling and fluids, and core components.

For more information about MAG, please visit: www.mag-ias.com

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