In order to meet increasing production requirements with smaller quantities and greater part diversity, DMG Mori is establishing a new series with the CLX TC, in which a B axis with CompactMaster turning and milling spindle replaces the traditional tool turret. On board are an automatic tool changer with tool magazine, the usual main spindle, and the tailstock or optional counter spindle.

The central element of the new CLX 450 TC is the B axis with the CompactMaster turning and milling spindle. A Y axis allows eccentric machining even in the standard version, while the tool magazine with up to 60 places – the standard is 30 – enables the production of several different components without intermediate tool set-ups. Tools can, of course, be loaded and unloaded in parallel with machining time, again reducing set-up times.

DMG Mori’s concept with a B axis requires only one tool for the main and counter spindles. In addition, the use of multitools and sister tools is possible, so that nothing stands in the way of flexible automation for unmanned shifts. The CompactMaster spindle offers similar advantages in CNC milling: there is only one tool for radial and axial milling, no special angle heads are required, and complex machining is possible with standard tools.

According to DMG Mori, the B axis also benefits process stability as it enables comprehensive measurement of the workpiece on the machine tool. In addition, there is an integrated tool measuring device above the main spindle outside the working area. The CLX 450 TC is equipped with a Siemens 840D Solutionline and a 19” multi-touch panel.

For further information
www.dmgmori.com

CMZ is building its third machining plant ready for full operations by the second half of 2021. At an investment of €17m, the new 8000 sq m Neoprec facility will give CMZ the capabilities it requires to achieve its desired goal of manufacturing 800 CNC lathes per year. The works are already at a very advanced stage and, once final commissioning is complete, CMZ will see a massive advancement in the company’s production capacity.

Neoprec, situated in Mallabia, in the Basque region of northern Spain, will focus on machining the small and medium-sized parts used in CMZ’s CNC lathes. Of the €17m invested, €10m has gone towards purchasing new machines and intelligent factory automation.

In terms of equipment, the plant will have an automated warehouse with capacity to handle 1752 pallets. Moreover, Neoprec will have eight horizontal machining centres aligned in two FMS set-ups, while the metrology room will feature three 3D measuring machines and temperature control to within 0.1°. The maximum variation in the temperature inside the building over any given 24 hour period will be less than 1°C

CMZ’s investment strategy follows its route map focused on finishing 2023 with an annual turnover of €100m. Neoprec is the latest in a series of milestones reached so far: Seuner, the second lathe assembly plant, established in 2016 and already at 70% capacity, and the recent move and expansion of Cafisur, the group’s industrial sheet metal plant, are examples of that.

In line with this trend for working towards sustained growth through strategic investments, work will soon begin on the expansion of Precitor which, alongside Mecaninor and Neoprec, make up the company’s three machining plants.

For further information
www.cmz.com