At EMO 2017 Hurco demonstrated how 3-axis CNC machining centers in its VMXi series can further improve your milling performance with the addition of a Kitagawa GT 200 rotary table as a fourth axis.
Hurco is sure that the highly efficient machining centers in its VMXi series will help increase profitability, especially when it comes to one-off part or small series production. A major advantage of the VMXi machines is their compact construction.
Hurco’s VMX 30i
“For example, you don’t need much space to set up a VMX 30i, but it has a comparatively generous working area and cutting performance that is something to be proud of,” said Michael Auer, Managing Director of Hurco GmbH.
The addition of a Kitagawa GT 200 rotary table as a fourth axis significantly increases the range of applications these CNC 3-axis machining centers are capable of. When you start the programme, up to four sides of a component can be machined at once, without reclamping, and if surface machining is needed on circular components, it can do that too. The additional axis can be installed or uninstalled with ease, to suit current needs.
Conversational control system: Fast, accurate and easy to use
Hurco’s machining centers are equipped with the “WinMax” conversational control system, with optional DXF. The powerful control system software simplifies programming and sets the machine up for producing precision parts in just three steps.
The BMO automated system
“Using our WinMax DXF software, the programming time for a workpiece can be as little as half that of other dialogue programming systems,” said Auer.
Loading and unloading Hurco machining centers automatically
Hurco also demonstrated how cooperation between a machine tool and a loading robot ensures greater efficiency in production. For example, the VMX 30Ui CNC machining center will be loaded and unloaded using an automated system featuring a loading robot from the Dutch provider BMO. This increases productivity while saving on human resources.
BMO-System Titanium: The operator loads the racks of the cell, programmes the machine tool, starts the programme and can then watch the system during operation
“This flexible system enables the expansion of the multi-shift operation in single-piece and small series production without having to increase personnel expense for machine operation,” explained Auer.
Hurco opted for the “Titanium” BMO system. This system allows a CNC machining center to be docked on both the left and right. Blanks are fed in the loading robot cell on trays. The robot arm integrated into the cell positions the blanks in the machining center, removes them after production and places them back into trays in the cell.
“The operator loads the racks of the cell, programmes the machine tool, starts the programme and can then watch the system during operation,” explained Auer.
For further details contact Hurco South Africa on TEL: 849 5600 or visit www.HURCO.co.za
