When developing the AF160, maximum versatility was the key goal of the engineering department at the Swiss family enterprise Affolter Group, a specialist in high-precision gear-hobbing solutions. As a result, three gear-hobbing configurations are available.

With the optional quick-change system, machine operators can switch from one configuration to the next in only 30 minutes. In configuration I, both the C axis and the C’ prime axis are equipped with driven spindles. This set-up leads to increased cutting quality, more torque and higher rigidity. In addition, the set-up offers an A axis of±50° swing, making it ideal for the production of spur, helical, bevel, crowned and face gears.

With a tailstock on the C axis and a spindle on C’ prime axis (configuration II), the operator gets more flexibility. The A axis can move from -50° to +115°, making worm milling possible. This configuration is also suitable for all gear types mentioned above. In configuration III, the C axis remains empty and the C’ prime axis features a driven spindle. As a result, users can undertake thepower skiving of internal gears and the production of face gears.

TheAF72 part loader features a double gripper system for parallel loading and unloading, and a telescopic arm. Customers can select different configurations depending on the volume, product and application. It is possible to equipthe AF72 with up to five feeding rails, enabling users to preload more parts and let the machine work autonomously for more than 24 hours.

The AF160 is configurable for any application. Hobbing options include skiving by sensor detection, and integrating a deburring process into gear production with the addition of the AF54 deburring unit.
For further information www.affoltergroup.ch

The Engineering Technology Group (ETG) is introducing the new G8 machining centre from Axile. Since entering into an agreement with Axile to become the exclusive UK and Ireland technology partner, ETG is already enjoying a significant level of enquiries for the range of five-axis VMCs, heavy-duty double-column machining centres and mill-turn machine tools.

With a maximum loading capacity of up to 1300kg on a swivelling rotary table, the agility of the G8 enables the production of various large components. Also in the G8 Series is the G8 MT. This machine option offers both milling and turning in one machine, increasing operational flexibility, reducing set-up times and offering the potential to machine a wider variety of parts in a single set-up.

Axile builds the flexibility of the G8 and G8 MT upon a high-quality cast base that offers a structural foundation which optimises vibration damping and limits thermal behaviour.From an agility perspective, both models have direct-driven servo motors, double symmetrical and synchronised axes, linear scales with 0.1μm resolution,and double roller type linear guideways – all features that minimise backlash, vibration and elasticity.

Regarding specification, both the G8 and G8 MT offer a table size of 800 mm diameter with X, Y and Z-axis travels of 670 x 820 x 600mm and a maximum feed rate of 60m/min. The swivelling A axis moves to ±120° with a 360° continuous C axis. As standard, the built-in spindle come with a 20,000rpm asynchronous motor supplied with tools from two carousels that offer 32/64 position tool-change capability. The machine can also feature larger magazines with up to 120 positions.
For further information www.engtechgroup.com

Following the success of its M1 entry-level vertical machining centre, DMG Mori has introduced a larger version, the M2, with double the travel in the X axis at 1100 mm. The Y- and Z-axis travels are identical at 550 and 510 mm respectively, but maximum table load is nearly treble that of the M1, at 1700 kg.

The M2 retains the same fixed-table, travelling-column design, which minimises wear on the machine’s ballscrews and drives by not having to move the heavy table with its load to the spindle. Measuring 1400 x 600 mm, the clamping surface is sufficient to accommodate one large part or multiple smaller components set up in various fixtures (and even a 4th axis indexer) at the same time.

DMG Mori’s monolithic design of the thermally stable machine bed casting, which weighs 3400 kg, gives the M2 high rigidity and good damping properties. Minimal vibration, even when taking heavy cuts, protects the machine structure, provides long tool life and ensures good surface finish on machined components. The total installed weight of the machine is nearly 7 tonne in a compact footprint of only 7.3 sq m.

Users benefit from the choice of a 10,000 or 12,000 rpm inline spindle, of which the company has installed more than 4000 units worldwide, as well as a 24-pocket tool magazine and rapid double-gripper tool changer.

The M2 has roller guideways in all axes and machining dynamics are constant regardless of workpiece weight, report DMG Mori. A 20-bar internal coolant supply is optional. Control is via Siemens Sinumerik One touchscreen CNC, which has very few buttons, making it ideal for the new generation of setter-operators familiar with smartphones and tablets.
For further information www.dmgmori.com