Taiwanese machine tool builder Leadwell CNC Machines has introduced the BC-600 at the smaller capacity end of its of BC series of five-axis machining centres. On all four models, the rotary axes are provided by a ±110° B-axis spindle and an integrated C-axis rotary table, both of which may be interpolated with X, Y and Z to allow full five-axis production.

The competitively priced machines, which are fitted with scales in the linear and rotary axes as standard, are available in the UK and Ireland through recently appointed sole sales and service agent WH-Lead, which moved into its new Towcester facility last month. The first batch of Leadwell machines for stock and demonstration will start arriving from this week.
A notable feature of the 12-tonne BC-600 is its generous working envelope for the nominal 4.7 x 3.8 m footprint. Travels in X and Y are 1100 and 610 mm respectively, while in the Z axis, components 610 mm tall can be machined with the spindle in the vertical orientation, rising to 790 mm with the spindle horizontal. Cutting feed rate is up to 10 m/min, while rapids are 36 m/min in X and Y, and 30 m/min in Z.
The flush, 600 mm diameter rotary table accepts workpieces weighing up to 400 kg, but the full 1280 x 610 mm fixed table is able to accommodate 1400 kg components for three- or four-axis machining. The C axis uses a direct-drive motor to provide high torque and rigidity, and to avoid the backlash normally associated with worm-gear drives. Maximum standard rotational speed of the C-axis table is 120 rpm, but there is an optional 800 rpm version to provide turning capability.
For further information www.wh-lead.co.uk