Developed for general-purpose vertical-spindle machining-centre applications requiring heavy-duty cutting, three new AA90-series VMCs from Wele have X-axis travels of 1,800mm for the AA1890, 2,000mm for the AA2090, and 2,500mm for the AA2590; all have Y- and Z-axis travels of 900mm.

Represented in the UK by Hinckley-based 2D CNC Machinery Ltd (www.2DCNC.co.uk), Wele is part of the JTEKT group, which also owns Mitsui Seiki and Toyoda Machine. The company also makes advanced five-axis machining centres and large bridge-type machines.

Significant in the design of the AA machines are four hardened and ground box-ways with roller guideways on the Y axis; this arrangement provides full support for
demanding machining cycles needing both power and accuracy.

Indeed, as part of the build specification, some 62 surfaces on the machine bed, column, carriage and spindle head are hand-scraped.

Across the AA90 range, the geared BT50 spindle is powered by an 18.5kW motor that provides 469Nm of torque and a speed range of 65-6,000rev/min. The 30-tool magazine
can accommodate tools up to 110mm in diameter, or 200mm in diameter if the adjacent pockets are left empty.

Rapid-traverse rates are 18m/min in X and Y and 15m/min in Z. Accuracy is within ±0.005mm per 300mm of stroke; repeatability is ±0.003mm.