Five microns maximum variation over time in the accuracy of a turned component is claimed by the Japanese lathe builder for its new, compact CNC lathe, selling at GBP 59,000.
Five microns maximum variation over time in the accuracy of a turned component is claimed by the Japanese lathe builder, Takamaz, for its new SX-07 lathe, available in the UK through sole agent, Yuasa Warwick Machinery. The 20mm bar machine (optionally 35mm) has a compact footprint for a twin-opposed-spindle lathe - just 1.8 square metres. Considering the attention to constructional detail to achieve high precision turned parts production, its GBP 59,000 price is regarded as competitive.

A new technique for Takamaz, which supplies 40 per cent of its output to Japanese automotive plants, is to mount the headstock symmetrically about the spindle centreline to equalise movement in all directions resulting from thermal changes.

In addition, to eliminate heat transfer from hydraulic oil to the headstock, air clamping of the 5 inch main spindle's collet chuck is provided (although hydraulic may be specified).

Again with minimisation of heat transmission in mind, Takamaz has designed the SX-07 so that the hydraulic tank, coolant tank and electrics are isolated from the bed casting.

Pre-tension is applied to the ballscrews in all axes, not just those that deliver the 100mm X and 140mm Z movements of the 12-station turret but also to A, the 250mm sub spindle traverse.

It is the X-axis that directly affects the radial accuracy of the component, so a heat-balanced construction has been provided and the screw has been made as short as possible to reduce thermal expansion.

Both main and sub spindles offer a generous 8,000 rpm so production rates may be maintained when dealing with small diameter, non-ferrous workpieces.

Contributing further to high productivity are 18m/min rapids in all axes.

For component ejection, a parts catcher and outfeed conveyor are supplied as standard.

Control is provided by the modern Fanuc 21i-TB, which helps to maximise the number of components in the bin at the end of a shift through its high speed processing capability and comprehensive help during shop floor programming.