Radical structural-design enhancements and the introduction of high-performance spindle options have improved the machining effectiveness and efficiency of the Hartford range of Super-HCMC heavy-duty vertical machining centres.

Available from the manufacturer’s exclusive UK distributor — T W Ward CNC Machinery Ltd, Sheffield (www.wardcnc.com) — the machines feature a re-designed and lighter head that provides increased machining rigidity and higher positioning accuracy, as well as lower acceleration stresses.

The open-fronted Super-HCMC range also features a re-designed and wider column base that ensures high levels of stability under heavy cutting conditions. Moreover, all the design changes are underpinned by Hartford’s ‘optimum force flow structure’, which sees machining forces directed so as to reduce vibration and maximise accuracy.

The spindles use FAG bearings that ensure a run-out of just 0.005mm per 300mm; they also feature an innovative gearing design that accommodates both heavy-duty cutting and light cutting. The result is a range of machines that can undertake single-set-up machining using both high removal rates as well as fine finishing routines. The spindle is rated at 15/26kW and has a maximum speed of 10,000rev/min.

Within the machine range, table capacities extend from 1,450 x 800mm to 2,000 x 920mm (they accommodate loads of 1,600 and 3,000kg respectively). The axis travels range from 1,300 to 1,800mm for X, 800 to 920mm for Y, and 660 to 700mm (optionally 820mm) for Z.

The traverse rate is 16m/min, and tool capacities range from 20 to 32. The machines can be supplied with Fanuc, Heidenhain or Mitsubishi CNC systems. These feature: short-message sender (ensuring that users are immediately aware of any issues); servo overload detection (to avoid potential collisions); and a thread-milling macro for the production of wide-pitch threads.