The latest addition to the Mitsui Seiki Vertex range of five-axis vertical machining centres introduces a multi-sensor thermal-growth monitoring system named MAMS (Mitsui Accurate Milling Support).

This offers enhancements in accuracy by reducing Z-axis thermal displacement by up to 35% compared with previously used machine tool technologies, says the company.

The Vertex 55X III is available in the UK through Hinckley-based 2D CNC Machinery Ltd (www.2dcnc.co.uk).

Able to undertake five-axis cycles on workpieces within a work envelope that is 750mm in diameter x 525mm high, the machine offers rapid-traverse rates of 48m/min and positioning accuracies of ±1µm.

Workpieces are held on a 360deg 50rev/min C-axis table that is 400mm in diameter and accommodates loads up to 350kg. The A axis, which can tilt from +15 to -105deg, offers a positioning accuracy of ±2min and a repeatability of ±1.5min.

Weighing in at 9.5 tonnes, the Mitsui Seiki Vertex 55X III houses a 40-taper spindle rated at 18.5kW 25,000rev/min (28.6Nm torque). Its tool storage capacity is 40 positions for tools up to 90mm in diameter (125mm with adjacent pockets left empty) x 300mm long.