Combination Lathe Enables Both Manual, CNC Operations
IMTS22: Milltronics showcases its ML16II/40 combination lathe, as well as its VM3018IL performance vertical machining center.
Edited by
Chris Pasion
Managing Editor, Modern Machine Shop | Production Machining
ML16II/40. Photo Credit: Milltronics
Milltronics showcases its ML16II/40, a combination lathe that offers both manual and CNC operations for tool rooms and job shops. The ML Series, which features X/Z travels of 11/44.5", can be configured with many options and other features such as bore sizes and bed lengths — including live tooling and C-axis. The ML16II/40 tool room lathe has 17" swing and 40" length with a 2.04" spindle bore. With an 18 HP, 4,000 RPM spindle, it reportedly generates 124 ft-lbs of torque. It comes standard with an eight-station, electro-mechanical turret full enclosure.
VM3018IL.
Photo Credit: Milltronics
The company also showcases its VM3018IL, a performance vertical machining center equipped with a 40-taper Big-Plus dual-contact inline spindle. Inline spindles are said to run smooth and quiet with minimal heat and reduced vibration, providing better surface finish and longer tool life. The 12,000 RPM inline spindle on the VM3018IL has a dual-wound spindle motor for faster acceleration/deceleration and more torque, and it provides 24/15 hp. The VM3018IL features XYZ travels of 30" × 18" × 22". The Milltronics IL Series machines also have bigger castings, faster rapids and more standard features.
The VM3018IL has a table size of 34" × 18", a table load of 30,140 lbs and a rapid feed/cutting feed of 1,200/1,000 IPM.
Both Milltronics ML and IL Series machines are equipped with the 9000 Series control that includes 120 GB disk storage, 4 GB memory, improved graphic performance, mid-travel tactile keys, and a 15" LCD touch screen. The 9000 control allows operators to run parts programmed conversationally or by toolpaths generated by a CAM system.
The 9000 Series control also supports the optional ChipBoss feature that uses proprietary algorithms to calculate toolpaths and control maximum allowable cutter engagement. ChipBoss reportedly enables use of the whole length of a tool rather than just the tip, which means users can cut profiles at full depth rather than taking multiple depth passes. This new optional software works by automatically controlling the tool’s chip load, keeping it constant and creating the optimal chip, which results in faster cycle times, better tool life and more accurate parts. Cycle times (depending on geometry) can reportedly be reduced by as much as 50% percent with up to three-to-five times better tool life.