Citizen has introduced its first fixed-head Miyano lathe with the company’s LFV (low-frequency vibration) chipbreaking software in a Fanuc control system. The new 42mm bar capacity ANX-42SYY features 10 CNC axes including a +/-35mm Y-axis on both the upper and lower turrets in addition to X and Z-axis movements.
LFV synchronises the rotation of the spindles with high-frequency oscillating tools motions in the X and Z axes to break what would normally be stringy swarf into manageable chips that can be disposed of easily. During turning and drilling, the swarf is prevented from entangling around the component and tool, which would otherwise risk damage to both and is time-consuming to remove. Machine stoppage for swarf clearance is not needed, even when machining such materials as stainless steel and plastics, so productivity levels can be raised.
The 6.2-tonne machine occupies only 2,650mm x 1,630mm of space on a shop floor. Both main and sub-spindle have a bar capacity of 42mm diameter and are powered by 11 kW/6,000rpm built-in motors. The turrets have 12 live tool stations each rated at 6,000rpm/2.2kW/20Nm. Rapid traverse rates are fast at up to 30 m/min, again with high productivity in mind. This has been achieved by adopting linear guides in all axes. The commonality of tool holders with Citizen’s popular BNA range of Miyano lathes leads to cost savings for existing users of the supplier’s equipment.