Conversational programming software that is equally useable for single part manual cycles or for full CNC repeat operation will be demonstrated on a CNC turning machine
The latest developments by Colchester Lathe to its Manual Guide i conversational programming software, that is equally useable for single part manual cycles or for full CNC repeat operation over a batch of parts direct from memory, will be demonstrated on the top-selling Colchester MultiTurn 2000. The competitively priced machine will be used to show how effortless 'at the machine' programming should be and how solid model 3D graphic simulation gives higher operator confidence before a part is turned. Launched at MACH 2006 on the Colchestersales (UK) stand 5334 the latest version of the mid-range MultiTurn 2000 enables parts up to 400mm diameter by 1250mm long to be swung over the bed.

However, by utilising the gap bed, a swing of 585mm by 165mm is available.

It is the Fanuc OiTc CNC TFT contouring control with the powerful but simple and quick to use Manual Guide i conversational programming that sets this machine apart enabling the operator to manually turn a part using its electronic handwheels with the control screen functioning as a digital readout for tool positioning.

To this, a series of canned cycles can be added to reduce the input required and the operator also has the facility to cut and paste or call-up his own prepared macros to create the toolpath.

Further help is at hand in building a program through an extensive tool library able to store up to 960 tools with the added supporting bonus of virtual tool and solid modelling programs.

There is also a simple teach/repeat memory plus on-screen CAD/CAM using icon-based commands.

For the advanced user, conventional CNC programming can be performed using G-codes.

And, in the same fashion as a normal CNC lathe, programs can be downloaded by DNC or input from a 'flash card' taken from a PC.

The MultiTurn CNC lathe is very competitively priced and provides high levels of functionality that takes full advantage of the 7.5kW spindle drive.

The spindle is carried on a cast iron flat bed with an eight-station 360mm diameter, bi-directional, electrically indexing disc turret capable of holding 20mm by 20mm tool section size and 30mm diameter boring bars.

Quick-change toolposts from Parat, Multifix or Dickson are available on request.

Three-jaw geared scroll or four-jaw independent chucks up to 250mm with a 54mm bore define the capacity of the machine which can also be supplied with travelling or stationary steadies.

The tailstock is No 5 MT and is available with heavy duty or general purpose centres.

The ergonomically positioned travelling Fanuc OiTC control has a large area to view TFT flat colour screen with a 10 GByte hard disk memory and can be moved totally independently of the fully interlocked enclosure which has twin, slide-aside guard doors.