The French-built SMP Numaffut CA3+ five-axis universal grinding centre is now available in the UK from Milton Keynes-based NL Machine Tool Consulting Ltd (www.nlmtc.co.uk).

Suitable for both manufacturing and re-manufacturing special tools in small and medium volumes, the machine features a vertical-axis tool-holder that is designed to simplify the loading of tools.

Tools with diameters up to 150mm and lengths up to 300mm can be accommodated, while the maximum weight is 25kg. The 210deg B axis comprises a wheel-holder, electric spindle and cooling circuit. There is a choice of two spindles: HSKE40 (10kW 20,000rev/min and 18Nm of torque at 6,000rev/min) or HSKE50 (7.7kW 10,000rev/min and 34Nm at 3,000rev/min).

Also featured are a six-station automatic grinding-wheel changer, automated dressing of CBN and diamond wheels, and a Renishaw wheel-probing system with automatic correction. The A-axis tool-holder, which also allows users to perform cylindrical grinding, is driven by a brushless motor at 650rev/min.

A variety of tool-holders can be used, including types by Schunk and Schaublin. Tool-loading options
include a six-axis robot or carousel, while a manual tailstock allows the manufacture of longer tools. End-of-cycle air-blast cleaning and SMP’s EasyGrind software also feature.