Targeting heavier component applications, Mitsui Seiki’s latest five-axis horizontal machining centre — the HU100-5X — for the complex machining of aerospace, power generation, compressor, off-road and mould-and-die sector components, has an ultra-high-torque spindle drive; the 8.5kW 4,500rev/min unit develops 2,710Nm of torque.

Furthermore, the machine accommodates components weighing up to 2 tonnes on the dual 1,000mm-square pallet-changing system.

The work envelope is 1,500 x 1,200 x 1,200mm, and the machine features automatic workpiece and fixture measurement with full compensation, non-contact laser-based tool setting, and 3-D tool compensation.

A dynamic feature-offset capability through the Fanuc 30iM control is also provided.

Hardened and ground steel boxways contribute to positioning accuracies of ±0.003mm on each main axis. Meanwhile, the accuracy of the A-axis is ±8sec; for the B-axis trunnion, the accuracy is ±4sec.

The six machines in the HU series are widely used for hard-metal production applications and the machining of titanium, Inconel, Waspaloy, special alloys and stainless steels.

Here, high rates of metal removal for roughing cycles are matched by the ability to finish-machine to high levels of surface finish, geometrical relationship and tolerance.

In the UK, this machine is available from Hinckley-based 2D CNC Machinery Ltd (www.2DCNC.co.uk).