Chiron UK’s October multi-axis machining workshops saw the UK debut of the world’s fastest machining centre. The Vision concept machine incorporates the latest thinking in machine tool design and is a test-bed for the next generation of production machines.
The Vision is a reflection of Chiron’s belief that its future success will come from continuously re-examining what it has already achieved and finding improved solutions for its customers.
The underlying thinking behind Chiron’s development of high-speed manufacturing is focused on high-speed and high-performance metal cutting, reduced non-cutting time, reliable and robust components, process automation, faster setups and higher uptimes.
Perhaps the most innovative feature of the Vision is its use of Chiron’s parallel kinetics technology for X and Y-axis positioning. This is an ingenious and innovative arrangement of two linear drives, pivoted on the machine frame and the vertical column, which move independently to position the spindle anywhere within the XY machining plane at speeds of 120m/min and accelerations up to 3g.
This is combined with a conventional Z-axis ball-screw drive giving 100 m/min travel and a 2-axis rotary table. The synchronous motor spindle can ramp up to 15,000 rpm in 0.2 seconds with a maximum speed of 27,000 rpm, while the tool change time is just 0.5 seconds.
With its high-speed axis travel, 3g acceleration and a chip-to-chip time of just 1.2 seconds, the Vision is probably the fastest machining centre ever seen in the UK.
ENDS
23 October 2002
For more information please contact:
Andy Sandford
Sticklebacks Communications
Tel: 01737 270 648
Mobile: 07971 436 644
andy@sticklebacks.com