The ACC-CAiQ range of surface grinders from Okamoto, which offers sizes from 600 x 400mm up to 1,000 x 600mm, has been extended with the addition of three new larger heavy-duty sizes. Available in the UK from Lutterworth-based
DF Precision Machinery Ltd, they are the PSG-126CAiQ (with a size of 1,200 x 600mm), the PSG-127CAiQ (1,200 x 700mm), and the PSG-157CAiQ (1,500 x 700mm).
The new larger models benefit from a robust heavy-duty main machine casting and a new moving-column design that features a high-level column cross slide that ‘further increases the rigidity and strength of the machine’. Furthermore, a double-V hand-scraped table slideway ensures that the lubrication oil is ‘perfectly distributed to ensure a flat surface and straight table movement’.
Starting with the 1.2m size, these larger machines also offer a heavy-duty wheelhead, together with a 15kW spindle motor and a 510mm-diameter grinding wheel; and despite having a longer table stroke than earlier models, the cycle time is reduced thanks to a ballscrew table drive with 40m/min feed rate.
The touchscreen Fanuc control as used on existing CAiQ Series machines has been further developed and made even quicker and easier to set, both in production and in tool room environments — and it offers a larger high-definition touchscreen with sharper graphics.
Graphical representation of common grind patterns and wheel shapes are quickly set up directly on the touchscreen view panel with the help of the iQ function; this can automatically set the optimal grinding conditions simply by entering the grinding wheel mesh/grit size; and whereas complex tasks in precision grinding had often depended on the experience of a skilled operator, Okamoto’s iQ touchscreen control and easy-to-use software allows even unskilled operators to use the machine ‘with maximum efficiency and precision’.
Furthermore, the fully enclosed table cover with interlocked sliding door allows modern large-volume high-pressure coolant systems to be used, thereby increasing productivity while keeping the workshop environment clean.