The Mikron Mill S 600 U five-axis machining centre for die- and mould-making applications is now equipped with the new StepTec HVC140 spindle featuring OptiCool technology.

Available from Coventry-based GF Machining Solutions (www.gfms.com), the machine combine direct-drive technology with integrated software that is said to ensure thermal stability, high precision and process optimisation.

These ‘Smart’ software modules include: Ambient Robust, which monitors and regulates thermal variation detected in the machine’s base and drives; OSS (Operator Support System), which helps customers optimise their machining processes based on workpiece specifications/dimensions and specific machining priorities such as speed, accuracy and surface finish; and ITC/ITC 5AX (Intelligent Thermal Control), which eliminates the need for, or reduces the time required for, warm-up cycles.

The new StepTec HVC140 spindle is a 13.5kW 42,000rev/min unit that features OptiCool technology. The manufacturer says this offers ‘enhanced polar thermal balance’ that controls the temperature of the spindle and spindle bearings to improve part accuracy and surface finish.

Also contributing to the spindle’s performance is a new type of high-precision ceramic hybrid bearing. As a result, radial and lateral stiffness are increased by 16% and 60% respectively.

Furthermore, a radial and axial run-out, as well as repeatability, of less than 2µm is achieved at the tool interface.