Five-Axis HMCs launched for Aluminum Machining of Large Aerospace Parts

A-series five-axis HMCs from Makino are designed for high-speed, high-efficiency aluminum machining. The machines are well-suited for machining large, thin aerospace structural components including wing spars, wing panels and floor beams. The horizontal machining center family includes the A4, A8, A12 and A20, each intended for specific part lengths ranging from 4 to 20 m.

The machines are equipped with a 33,000-rpm HSK-F80 spindle with a high-power output of 107 hp (80 kW). At peak power, the spindle can achieve chip removal rates ranging to 5,600 cm³/min. (300 in³/min.). Autonomic Spindle Technology (AST3) uses displacement sensors to monitor forces against the spindle. During machining, the data from these sensors is evaluated in real-time. If an unsafe load condition is detected, the AST3 reduces the feed rate to prevent damage to the spindle and tooling.

With ±110 degrees of tilt in the A axis and an infinite degree of rotation in the C axis, the spindle and head design provides five-axis roughing and finishing capabilities and part accessibility for deep pockets and side walls. The machines share a common FEA column design to reduce weight while maintaining rigidity. Movement of the column along the X axis is powered by eight linear motors with 0.8-G acceleration. An extra-wide column base and dual-supported ballscrews in the Y axis ensure column and spindle stability during rapid axis movement, the company says. The machines also feature Volumetric Accuracy Compensation technology to improve tool-tip positioning accuracy.

The A-series can be equipped with an optional 120-kW spindle, enabling roughing rates to range to 6,550 cm3/min. (400 in3/min.) in aerospace-grade aluminum. Through-spindle coolant capability is available with a through-spindle coolant pressure of 1.5 MPa, or 217 psi.