For machining parts from bar up to 20 mm in diameter (optionally 25 mm), a third generation of the Cincom L20-LFV series of sliding-head lathes with a considerably uprated specification has been launched by Citizen Machinery UK. Now offered in five variants, VIII, IX, X, XII and XIIB5, the L20-LFV is a best-selling model with platen tooling as well as front and rear tool posts. All stations feature driven and static positions on the top three models, which also have additional Y-axis movement of the sub-spindle.

Simultaneous five-axis control for performing complex machining cycles is supported on the top two models, one of which has a B-axis tool post with optional ATC (automatic tool change) for tools up to 30 mm in diameter. Chip-to-chip time is 4 seconds. Cutters are driven by a 2.2 kW motor at up to 12,000 rpm, so even small diameter mills are capable of productive metal removal rates.

The Japanese manufacturer says it was the first to offer B-axis ATC on a sliding-head lathe to extend the machine’s versatility when executing angled cross-working or end-facing operations. The magazine accommodates 12 tools, while a 13th is fixed in the upper position on the live tool unit.

Another feature contributing to the lathe’s versatility is the ability to switch over quickly between Swiss-type operation and non-guide bush turning for more economical production of shorter components. This mode results in less bar wastage due to the shorter remnants.

The machine incorporates Citizen Machinery’s Eco II suite of energy-saving features, designed to optimise power consumption, reduce compressed air usage, minimise CO2 emissions and promote environmentally friendly manufacturing practices.

More information www.citizenmachinery.co.uk

Whether for food, beverages, pharmaceuticals, chemicals or water, anywhere liquids are processed will typically see a separator or a decanter at the heart of production. At GEA Westfalia Separator Group’s largest production site in Oelde, Germany, where 1900 people are employed, 120 centrifugal separators are produced every month with the help of 15 machine tools supplied by DMG Mori. These include turn-mill centres and five-axis machining centres and with a high degree of process integration.

One of the latest machines to be installed is a CTX gamma 3000 TC multi-tasking, twin-spindle, B-axis CNC lathe with MATRIS robotic loading and unloading, which supplies spindles to the drives production department in Oelde.

Various spindles undergo production, requiring combinations of turning, gear milling, deep-hole drilling, grinding and in-process measuring. The previous production route involved separate milling machines, turning centres and a cylindrical grinding machine, so work-in-progress and inter-machine handling were inherent in the process. The CTX gamma 3000 TC integrates all of the processes, including grinding, into one work area. Throughput times are considerably shorter and the original machines are free to perform other production tasks.

“The biggest advantage is the fully automated production of entire batches,” says Dennis Hartmann, head of industrial engineering in the Separators Business Unit. “The MATRIS system is designed to be served via four component pallets that are wheeled by pallet truck in and out of the loading area. The robot takes the raw parts and aligns them so that they can be clamped correctly in the chuck and steady rest. The finished parts are then placed back on the pallet.”

More information www.dmgmori.com

Spanish Lathe manufacturer CMZ has consolidated its presence in France following the acquisition of industrial premises in Haute-Savoie. After opening its subsidiary CMZ France 20 years ago in Isère, this new space will be used to provide direct technical support, delivery of parts and advice on applications for CNC lathes. 

Part of CMZ’s international expansion strategy, the new technology centre will have a team of aftersales technicians to provide assistance in the area, as well as sales engineers who will offer direct advice for all customers. The facility will also house an applications engineering service and stock spare parts available on short lead times.

The facility’s permanent showroom for customers will display the full range of CMZ products and host technical workshops demonstrating the capacities of the lathes.

Benoit Branchu, a professional with a long career in the industrial sector will be heading the project. Throughout his career, Branchu has held a variety of posts which have given him in-depth knowledge on the use and operation of lathes, as well as a solid vision of the machining world. He did not hesitate to take up the lead in this new adventure in which Branchu is supported by a team of aftersales technicians for direct assistance.

Haute-Savoie is a strategic market for CMZ because the Arve Valley is recognised as the epicentre of precision turning in France and worldwide. The company has been operating in the area for just over a year and with this move is seeking to strengthen its presence with a strong, solid sales structure.

More information www.cmz.com

In 1975, Okuma introduced its first multi-tasking machine, the LM70-AT. It was capable of turning, drilling and milling in a single unit, providing a complete machining process. Okuma has continued to develop this principle over the years in line with market requirements. Today, Okuma says its Multus range is synonymous with technological innovation and the highest standards.

The benefits of multi-tasking machines for manufacturers are huge: they reduce the number of work steps, minimise the risk of manual errors or material loss thanks to continuous processes, shorten set-up times, and require less floor space. Order acceptance has also become more flexible: even urgent jobs can be accommodated quickly, requiring only a program change to the user-friendly CNC software. The same applies to jobs from new industries or to meet new regulatory requirements: Okuma says its multi-tasking machines enable companies to respond quickly to new requirements. This improves competitiveness, especially for small and medium batch sizes.

The Multus range comprises Okuma’s most advanced multi-tasking solutions. While the Multus BII series includes various standard models for simple entry-level applications, Multus B machines are suitable for complex workpieces with diameters up to 1 m and lengths up to 6 m. The Multus U series offers a choice of three models with an optional lower turret for increased productivity.

Okuma can also upgrade its multi-tasking machines with Okuma Armroid or robot cells for automation. This increases productivity and efficiency while maintaining the customary user-friendliness and precision machining.

As a further point of note, Okuma’s modern machine tools are increasingly focused on low and sustainable energy use.

More information www.okuma.eu