German machine tool builder Spinner has introduced a new vertical-spindle three-axis machining centre with a work envelope of 850 x 510 x 510mm but a footprint of just 1.8 x 1.85m.

This compactness is achieved by using a patented method for protecting the saddle’s Y-axis guideway from swarf and coolant ingress; this features a single wiper system that eliminates the need for a telescopic cover.

As a result, the depth of the machine is reduced, leading to a 30% reduction in the area needed for installation.

The machine is available in the UK through sole sales and service agent Whitehouse Machine Tools Ltd, Kenilworth (www.wmtcnc.com), which points out three other particular features of the Spinner VC850.

One is that the height of the machine with the spindle raised to its maximum is just over 2.4m, catering for users that have restricted headroom in their factory (a transport height of 2.3m without significant disassembly facilitates access).

The second feature is that the X-axis guideway also has a single wiper for protection, allowing the table to move to the extremes, so automated loading and unloading from the sides is simplified.

Thirdly, the short distance (160mm) from the table to the operator leads to ‘ergonomic use’ that is assisted further by a height-adjustable swivelling control panel. The latest-generation Siemens 840D sl CNC with 24in touch-screen is fitted (a Heidenhain TNC640 control will be available shortly).

The machine has an FEM-optimised cast construction designed to provide a high level of rigidity and vibration damping ‘for elevated cutting performance and high standards of surface finish on machined components’.

Further advantages are that tool life is extended and the accuracy of machining is enhanced.

The rapid-traverse rate and the maximum cutting feed rate are both 40m/min, contributing to high levels of productivity.

The maximum table load is 500kg, and two spiral augers to deliver swarf to a conveyor at the front of the machine.

There are two variants of spindle. Fitted as standard is a high-torque 18.2kW 12,000rev/min SK40 or BT40 version; available as an option is an HSK63 spindle rated at 18kW 18,000rev/min.

Either 32 or 48 pockets in the tool magazine can be specified. Other options include mist extraction, a rotary table to provide a fourth CNC axis, linear scales in place of rotary encoders, 22-bar or 70-bar high-pressure coolant delivery, and both workpiece and cutter measurement packages.