Designed for the cost-efficient single-set-up machining of blades for aero engines, gas turbines and steam turbines, the new LX 021 machining centre from Starrag UK Ltd, Birmingham (www.starrag.com), can also process impellers and small blisks.

Furthermore, it can include a full capability for turning; there is also the option to include an automatic bar feeder that accommodates square bar or round bar up to 65mm in diameter — in a floor-space of just 3.2 x 3.1m. The machine can also be integrated into a flexible manufacturing system with automatic pallet change.

Developed jointly by Starrag and Bumotec (known for the machining of highly accurate ‘micro’ parts in industry sectors that include computer, medical and electronics), the LX
021 brings a new smaller-capacity capability to Starrag’s LX range. LX machines have been specifically developed for the simultaneous five-axis machining of blades in difficult-to-machine materials, such as titanium and nickel-based alloys (rather than blades with relatively simple geometries and made from forgings or castings).

The machine has X, Y and Z axes of 400, 200 and 410mm respectively, 360deg in the A axis and -45 to +95deg in the B (swivel) axis. It also has an NC-driven U axis (tailstock) that can accommodate three clamping elements (including a pneumatic device), allowing machining to be performed on all sides of a component.

Also featured are a 13kW (12.5Nm torque) 30,000rev/min main spindle and a 30-tool ATC (optionally 90 tools). Tool change is completed in 1.5sec. Like all machines in the LX range, the through-spindle cooling options include high-pressure water- or oil-based coolant, air, minimum-quantity aerosol, CO₂ cryogenic and aerosol plus CO₂.

Starrag LX machines extend to models having X, Y and Z axes of 2,800, 660 and 660mm; they also incorporate backlash-free rotary and linear axes with high stiffness and damping characteristics, as well as counter-balanced vertical axes that provide a high level of dynamic contour accuracy.