Makino Releases 5-Axis Machining Center

Makino has introduced the a61nx-5E, a “right-sized” 5-axis horizontal machining center for complex aluminum aerospace parts. The unit offers an appropriately sized design for small components featuring 3D contours, without compromising the spindle performance and 5-axis capabilities of larger aerospace machines, the company says.

“The a61nx-5E features the same robust design and proven reliability of our smaller nx-Series horizontal machining centers, but with the added speed and performance of our larger MAG-Series machines,” said David Ward, Makino horizontal product line manager. “This machine differentiates itself from other similar 5-axis horizontal platforms with an innovative pallet-change system, advanced twin-direct-drive rotary table design, and availability of a high-power 24,000-rpm spindle. The result is a highly productive, right-sized solution that can provide up to 310 cubic inches of metal removal per minute.”

The unit provides enhanced rigidity through a three-point bed casting and tiered column structure. It has X-, Y- and Z-axis travels of 730 mm (28.7 in.), 730 mm and 680 mm (26.8 in.), respectively. Linear acceleration is 1G on the X- and Y-axes, and 0.8 in the Z-axis. The direct-drive rotary tables on the a61nx-5E offer improved access to all sides of a part, especially when using shorter tools, yielding improved performance and accuracy. A closed-loop thermal management system ensures reliability and accuracy by removing heat generated by the large direct-drive rotary table motors. The a61nx-5E also uses the same proven tool magazines as the nx-Series of machines with a ring-style ATC60 as standard. Optional matrix magazines with capacities of 133, 218 or 313 are available options.

For those companies handling high-performance, high-volume aluminum machining, the a61nx-5E has the option for the new 24,000-rpm high-performance core-cooled spindle. This spindle provides up to 80 kW of duty-rated (60 kW continuous) output. This high-speed spindle brings the aluminum roughing and finishing capabilities that are typically associated with Makino’s much larger MAG machines into a smaller platform, enabling cycle-time reductions of 45 to 50 percent in complex parts (when compared to a typical 20,000-rpm high-speed spindle), the company says.

For more information, visit Makino.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.