VERTICAL MACHINING CENTRE FOR COST-EFFECTIVE 3-AXIS MACHINING OF LARGER COMPONENTS

Following the success of its M1 entry-level vertical machining centre, DMG Mori has introduced a larger version, the M2, with double the travel in the X-axis at 1,100 mm. The Y- and Z-axis travels are identical at 550 and 510 mm respectively, but maximum table load is nearly trebled to 1,700 kg.

The M2 retains the same fixed-table, travelling-column design as the M1, which minimises wear on the machine ballscrews and drives by not having to move the heavy table with its load to the spindle. The clamping surface measures 1,400 x 600 mm, sufficient to accommodate one large part or multiple smaller components set up in various fixtures and even a 4th axis indexer at the same time.

The monolithic design of the thermally stable machine bed casting, which weighs 3,400 kg, gives the M2 high rigidity and good damping properties. Minimal vibration even when taking heavy cuts protects the machine structure, results in long tool life and ensures good surface finish on the machined component. Total installed weight of the machine is nearly seven tonnes in a compact footprint of only 7.3 square metres.

Users benefit from the choice of a 10,000 rpm or 12,000 rpm inline spindle, of which more than 4,000 units have been installed worldwide, as well as a 24-pocket tool magazine and rapid double gripper tool changer. Roller guideways are provided in all axes and machining dynamics are said to be constant regardless of workpiece weight. A 20-bar internal coolant supply is optional. Control is by a Siemens Sinumerik One touch-screen CNC, which has very few buttons, ideal for the new generation of setter-operators that are used to smartphones and tablets.

Approximately half of the customers who purchased an M1 were first-time users of a DMG Mori machining centre. The manufacturer hopes to replicate that success with the M2, which is suitable for use by companies of any size, from small subcontractors to large OEMs.