Producing precision parts that are moderately complex and up to 20mm in diameter, a 'mirror image' CNC automatic has almost an equal number of tools for the main and counter spindle.

Tornos Technologies' new DECO 20s Swiss-type machine is targeted to medical, automotive, electronics, connector, and general manufacturing companies producing precision parts that are moderately complex and up to 20mm in diameter. 'The DECO 20s addresses a need in the marketplace for a versatile Swiss-type machine that sets up and produces parts quickly, and priced at under US$200,000, it also won't break the bank,' said Mark Saalmuller, Tornos' marketing and communications manager. This machine will be making parts at IMTS 2006 in Chicago.

According to the company, the DECO 20s is a 'mirror image' machine, having almost an equal number of tools available for both the main and counter spindle.

Both tool systems have three fully independent axes, for a total of six axes.

The company also refers to this versatile and flexible model as 'two lathes in one'.

The DECO 20s is the only machine in its range to have a counter spindle as powerful as the main spindle.

A total of 22 tool positions are available.

Quick-mount tooling reduces setup time.

The powered or 'live' tooling can perform milling and drilling operations in addition to turning, so that many parts can be completely produced in one setup.

Up to 15 different operations can be carried out on the 20s, such as internal and external turning, drilling along the axis, offset drilling, plus axial and cross milling, all on both spindles.

Further, special attachments can be added to perform operations such as thread whirling, polygon milling, etc Simplicity, power, versatility, and an excellent price-to-performance package are the primary benefits of this new offering from Tornos.

The cast iron frame imparts excellent stability and strength.

Ball screws and generously sizes linear guides provide fast movement without loss of accuracy.

An innovative shock absorbing system is another key element that contributes to the machine's rigidity.

'Because of the independent tool systems and spindles, operations can be overlapped to optimize cycle times,' said Saalmuller.

'Our customers are brilliant at grasping the concept and making it work to their profitable advantage.' Additional specifications include a maximum part length of 220mm (500mm possible).

Both the direct drive spindle and the counter-spindle offer power of 3.7kW (5.5 HP) and a maximum spindle speed of 10,000 rev/min.

The 20s features the popular Fanuc 30i control; programming software is via conventional ISO G-code or Tornos' dedicated TB-DECO.