Vertical multi-function turning centres self-load shafts and forgings, complete-machine them - including bores and surface finish - and unload them.

The VTC Vertical Turning Center stands shaft machining on its head. Its 4-axis version VTC 250 machines workpieces of up to 180mm diameter and 630mm length (1000mm optional). The larger version VTC 315 machines axle-type components of up to 315mm diameter and 700mm length.

In its DUO version the VTC offers two stations for end machining and turning work.

Common to all the machines is their ability to self-load the shafts and forgings, complete-machine them - including bores and surface finish - and unload them.

The VTC Shaft Turning Center was developed under the same governing principles that led to the success of the turning machines for chucked components.

The cornerstone of the VTC, like that of all other turning and production centers from EMAG, is the sturdy machine base in Mineralit polymer granite.

Its vibration damping properties lead to a better surface finish and a longer tool life than those of conventional materials.

Spindle motor, work spindle, turrets and electrical cabinet are all fluid-cooled.

Its superior power rating, the high spindle speeds and the sturdy turrets that accommodate tools with 40 mm shank, make the VTC 250 a highly efficient turning center for 4-axis machining.

Tailstock and steadies are CNC-controlled.

In addition to the workpiece grippers, the remaining 11 positions of each of the two turrets can be equipped with stationary turning tools or with live tools for drilling and milling.

The VTC 250 turns workpieces of up to 180mm diameter and 630mm length (1000mm optional) and features VDI-40 workholding equipment.

The highest torque rate is 380 Nm, the maximum workpiece weight 20kg.

The machine is designed, primarily, for the manufacture of gear shafts for passenger cars.

The larger VTC 315 machines axle-type components of up to 60kg in weight, 315mm in diameter and 700mm in length and employs VDI 50 workholding equipment.

Its highest torque rate is 800Nm.

The machine is used, primarily, for the machining of HGV gear shafts.

Both centers work with four NC axes.

The VTC is available as a single-spindle machine and in a DUO version.

The latter combines the functions of two 4-axis turning machines and accommodates end working and turning operations in two machining stations.

The processes are integrated into one and the same sequence.

The two turrets carry out the cycle time-concurrent loading and unloading of raw-parts and finish machined components in the simplest way imaginable: 1) The gripper in turret no.

1 picks up the next workpiece from the raw-part storage section.

2) Conveys it to the clamping position, whilst - cycle timeconcurrent - the gripper in turret 2 picks up the finish-machined workpiece from the clamping position.

3) Removes it from the machining area and deposits it on the storage conveyor for finished components.

It has taken many enterprises only a very short time to opt for this new generation of machines, to machine short, medium size and long shaft-type components, using steadies for support.

The VTC machines are also increasingly converted to multifunctional production centers by including, for instance, end machining operations, such as sizing and centring, as a preparation for subsequent 4-axis turning, or as downstream machining operations - each of these steps as a fully automatic sequence on a single machine, of course.

The VTC design offers the following additional advantages: * 4-axis machining reduces cycle times - the cycle time-concurrent loading and unloading of the workpieces.

* Reduces idle times - the compact construction makes for a smaller footprint.

* A reduction in the cost of automation and peripherals (raw-part and finished component storage systems form an integral part of the machine).

* Less manual intervention (tailstock and steadies are CNC-controlled, whilst the operator has easy access to the turrets).

* Shorter setting-up and resetting times - direct-drive machine axes and modern control technology reduce the capital outlay for sensory equipment.