Ideally suited to automotive applications, a 26kW inverted spindle turning centre can be used either as a stand-alone machine or combined into an automated two-machine cell.

Where the requirement is to turn and mill large volumes of components Yamazaki Mazak's IVS range is an ideal choice. Ideally suited to automotive applications, the inverted spindle turning centre can be used either as a stand-alone machine or combined into an automated two-machine cell to complete first and second operations in a seamless fashion. The design of the IVS machine delivers a solid platform that lends it to high-volume metal removal and/or hard turning of material in excess of 50 HRc.

The IVS-300M on display at MACH 2006 features a 26kW, 4000 rev/min spindle that can accelerate from standstill to maximum speed in 3.4s and the maximum machining envelope is 350mm diameter by 180mm long.

Rotary tools are driven by a 5.5kW spindle with a maximum speed of 4500 rev/min.

While the IVS 300 is an extremely stable machine it is also extremely agile, with rapid traverse rates measured at 60m/min in the X-axis and 45m/min in the Z-axis.

Acceleration in both cases is 0.9G.

To maintain the highest levels of accuracy and repeatability the IVS 300 employs a scale feedback system on the X-axis.

This system measures the actual distance moved and maintains accuracy over extended periods of operation.

The Z- (spindle) axis is also used to load/unload and facilitate component handling, which in turn eliminates the requirement for gantry load/unload systems.

This reduces both capital costs and the amount of floorspace required.

Also, reflecting the high-volume environment that the IVS machines are aimed at, the 12-position, drum turret can accept rotary tools in any position, and is of the non-lift design that results in a one position index time of 0.2s.

If it is required to index more than one position, the control automatically selects the shortest path to keep non-cutting time to a minimum.

To aid tool setting the IVS is supplied as standard with Yamazaki Mazak's Tool Eye, which can be used to measure tools, register tool data and adjust tool offsets.

Additionally, it can be used to check for tool wear and damage, helping to maintain the machine's up-time.