A new machining centre from coventry-based DMG Mori UK Ltd (www.dmgmori.com) has a work envelope of 700 x 420 x 380mm yet a footprint of just 4.2m², which means that the DMP 70 takes up 10% less space than the MillTap 700 it replaces.

Available either as a three-axis CNC machine or as a five-axis simultaneous machine when fitted with the optional swivelling rotary table, the DMP 70 is suited to the manufacture of medical parts, as well as smaller components
for the aerospace sector and general sub-contracting; and provided that components fall within its working envelope, it can lessen the load on larger-capacity more-costly machines.

A high degree of rigidity in the machine construction, which includes a grey-cast-iron machine bed and 35mm-wide linear guideways, allows metal removal rates that are 10% greater than the maximum possible on the MillTap 700; and with rapid-traverse rates of 60m/min and accelerations up to 2g, the DMP 70 offers a ‘highly dynamic’ performance.

It has an in-line 10,000rev/min spindle (78Nm of torque) and a chip-to-chip tool-change time of 1.5sec from a magazine that can hold 15 cutters up to 250mm long; 25 tool pockets is an option.

Temperature stability and long-term accuracy are ensured by a thermo-symmetrical design and optimised cooling measures.

Linear scales provide high positioning accuracy, and the accuracy of machined components is said to be 60% better than is possible on the superseded MillTap 700.

Other features include steep covers for optimised chip evacuation, and a SLIMline multi-touch 3-D control with Operate 4.8 on a Siemens ‘platform’ that has a 19in display for ease of use and comprehensive cycle simulation.

Options include high-speed spindles, various tables, coolant systems and swarf conveyors, along with the manufacturer’s established WH 3 workpiece-handling system; this can be connected at the left, right or front of the machine to provide a compact automated cell requiring only 8.8m² of space.