Horizontal Machining Center produces aircraft engine parts.

Press Release Summary:



Model A66E-5XD 5-axis machine achieves 0.9-1.1 sec tool-to-tool time and 2.9 sec chip-to-chip time. Single casting of B and C axes eliminates tool interference and enhances chip removal. Machine incorporates 40-taper, 14,000 rpm spindle and chain-type, 40-tool magazine. It has X-, Y-, and Z-axis travels of 28.7 x 28.7 x 31.5 in. and work zone of 27.6 in. dia x 10.6 in. height. It handles up to 551 lb. Applications include blisks, inducers, impellers and turbine engine parts.



Original Press Release:



Makino Introduces A66E-5XD Horizontal Machining Center



5-Axis Machine Ideal For Production of Aircraft Engine Components

MASON, OH-September, 2004-Makino is introducing the A66E-5XD, a 5-axis version of the popular A66E machine which is ideal for the fast production of critical aircraft engine components. The A66E-5XD can machine complicated shapes in half the time of conventional 5-axis processes in the production of blisks, inducers, impellers and turbine engine parts.

This Makino technology will be introduced and on display at the 2004 International Manufacturing Technology Show (DVITS) at McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois, September 8 through 15. Visit the main Makino Booth #8400 in Hall A of the South Building.

Performance Features
A number of impressive features can be found on the A66E-5XD-a reliable, robust and productive member of the Makino A-Series machine line. It has a tool-to-tool time of 0.9 to 1.1 seconds, depending upon tool weight, and a chip-to-chip time of 2.9 seconds. And, the single casting B- and C-axis of the A66E-5XD is an important consideration for inertia and the elimination of tool interference and the enhancement of chip removal.

The large, direct drive motor of the rotary table provides excellent high-speed operation in order to eliminate backlash and wear. The B-axis operates at 75 RPM and 180 degrees of rotation in 0.7 seconds. The C-axis operates at 150 RPM with 180 degrees of movement in 0.4 seconds.

Built for Speed
The Makino A66E-5XD has an exceptional travel capacity and work zone for a machine in this class. With an X-, Y-, Z-axis travel of 28.7 x 28.7 x 31.5 inches (730 x 730 x 800 mm), the machine has a work zone diameter and height of 27.6 x 10.6 inches (700 x 269 mm). It can handle a load of 551 pounds (250 kg).

The B-axis has a rotation capability of +180 degrees/-100 degrees, while the C-axis has a rotation capability of 360 degrees. The rapid traverse rate of the A66E-5XD is 2,953 ipm (75 m/min.), with the feedrate at 2,125 ipm (50 m/min).

The repeatability of the A66E-5XD is +/- 0.00006 inches (0.0015 mm), and the positioning +/- 0.00010 inches (0.0025 mm). It comes with a 40-taper, 14,000-rpm spindle as standard, with optional spindles of 12,000 rpm and 20,000 rpm. A V-flange toolholder is standard, with an HSK-A 63 toolholder optional.

This new, 5-axis design permits the A66E-5XD to blend exceptional acceleration characteristics and minimal vibration with high-speed spindle utilization, especially when milling tough, heat-resistant alloys such as inconel, titanium and stainless steel. The A66E-5XD also features a chain-type, 40-tool magazine standard, with larger magazines available from 60 to 313 tools optional.

The A66E-5XD Handles the Heat
The A66E-5XD's thermal control technology delivers enhanced spindle cooling, ballscrew cooling and efficient coolant delivery, improving accuracy and prolonging the lifespan of the machining center. Its patented core cooling system and under race lubrication cool the spindle from the inside out, eliminating the need for a warm-up cycle and keeping the spindle cooler than its housing. That makes heavy bearing preload possible from a cold start, allowing the A66E-5XD to cut immediately.

Core cooling of the ballscrew dissipates heat to prolong overall life of the ballscrew and increase accuracy during use. Chilled oil is pumped through the ballscrew to help it stay accurate at high speeds and keep the proper tension on the screws for high performance and long-term superior volumetric accuracy. In addition, the machine has a 210-gallon (800 L) coolant capacity.

High-speed machining means more chips, which makes chip removal critical. The A66E-5XD delivers with a 16.7-inch (425mm wide) center trough design positioned in the middle of the machining area. Overhead shower coolant helps with the flushing and cooling of the work zone.

Makino is a global provider of advanced machining technology and application support for the metalcutting and die/mold industries, dedicated to driving out more costs from your manufacturing operation than any other competitive machine tool manufacturer. Makino manufacturing and service centers are located in the United States, Japan, Germany, Singapore, Italy, France, Korea, Taiwan, Turkey, China, Mexico, Brazil and India, and are supported by a worldwide distributor network. For more information call 1.800.552.3288, or visit Makino on the Web at www.makino.com.

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