Five-axis machining centres, with their ability to machine complex parts in one set-up, are enhancing the cost-competitiveness of a wide range of manufacturers, from major OEMs to small sub-contract job-shops.

At MACH, there was a comprehensive array of these machines with different designs and layouts to suit a variety of applications.

Among these was the Doosan DVF 5000 simultaneous five-axis machine from Mills CNC (www.millscnc.co.uk) which is described as a rigidly built unit that provides precision-component manufacturers with a full simultaneous five-axis machining capability.

It features an 18.5kW 12,000rev/min direct-coupled spindle (an 18,000rev/min built-in spindle is available as an option), and it will initially be available from Mills with the Heidenhain iTNC640 control; Fanuc and Siemens controls will be available later in the year.

The rapid-traverse rate is 40m/min for the three linear axes, which are fitted with linear guides for optimised performance.

The machine features a 500 x 450mm table with a maximum table load of 400kg, but it can be supplied with a 630 x 450mm table as an option.

To maximise productivity, the DVF 5000 has a servo-driven ATC that can hold up to 120 tools and offers a 1.3sec tool-to-tool change-over time.

Tony Dale, Mills CNC’s technical director, said: “Judging by the positive reception the new machine received at MACH, I am confident that the DVF 5000 will become a ‘must have’ machine for component manufacturers looking to improve their productivity, performance and profitability.”