The Engineering Technology Group (ETG), based in Wellesbourne, has risen the bar on cost-effective machining centres with the launch of the new Vulcan VMC650B. It is the smallest machine in the range of machines that are built-upon a box way design that has been optimised with Finite Element Analysis to deliver impressive levels of rigidity and performance.

The new three-axis VMC650B is a robust workhorse capable of handling extreme cutting forces and weight loads while maintaining smooth motion with increased dampening and cutting force characteristics. This smooth axis movement and vibration dampening are enhanced by an extra-wide saddle and base design that is complemented by each axis using grade C3 precision-ground ballscrews and a pre-tensioned design.

From a specification perspective, the compact new VMC650B has a work envelope of 650 x 500 x 500mm in the X, Y and Z axis with a spindle nose to table surface distance of 125 to 620mm. This spacious work envelope works over a machine bed of 800 x 470mm that can accommodate workpieces up to an impressive 500kg. The BT40 spindle taper is provided with cutting tools from a swing-arm type tool facility that can hold up to 24 tools.

Cost-effective high-speed machining
The Vulcan VMC650B is available with a variety of different spindle options that include a 5.5/7.5kW motor or a 7.5/11kW spindle motor. Additionally, ETG can support customer requirements with direct-drive BT40 spindle motors with the option of a 10,000rev/min, 12,000rev/min or 15,000rev/min spindle speed or the belt-driven spindle with speed options that include 8,000rev/min, 10,000rev/min or 12,000rev/min.

For manufacturers looking to undertake cost-effective high-speed machining, the Wellesbourne machine tool experts can configure the VMC650B with a 20,000 or 30,000rev/min BT40, HSK-E40, 50 or 63. The compact machine can achieve rapid traverse rates of 25m/min in all three axes to guarantee productive machining within a solid build construction that boasts an overall weight of 4,800kg in a compact 2,180 x 2,040mm (LxW) footprint. Adding to this weight and stability is the reinforced rib design in the Z-axis that delivers structural strength through the entire casting length.

As standard, ETG is providing the Vulcan VMC650B with a 20bar coolant pump, belt-type chip conveyor, LED work light, levelling blocks and bolts, spindle bearing air purge, Z-axis motor with a brake system, spindle chiller, tool kit and rigid tapping.