Large-capacity Mikron 5-axis milling machines from GF Machining Solutions are powerful, fast and accurate, and are ideal for machining large, heavy and awkward-shaped parts (and mould tools) used in the aerospace sector, among others.
The company’s MILL E 1000U, 1400U and 1900U are the largest machines in GF Machining Solutions’ milling machine tool portfolio, and are used extensively by OEMs, Tier One manufacturers and precision subcontractors throughout the world.
All models in the large Mikron milling machine series have a rigid design and build, including a machine bed cast out of one piece, that reduces vibration and ensures improved accuracies and repeatability’s.
Additional features that impact on performance include the machines’ thermo-stable structure, large work-tables with no overhang, a water-cooled, direct-drive ‘nodding’ spindle head configuration and scraped support surfaces on the machines’ linear guides.
The machines are equipped with advanced StepTec (HSK) direct-drive motor spindle technology making them ideal for all roughing and finishing operations, and feature a bearing design that comprises three pre-loaded hybrid ball bearings (at the front), and a thermally-robust hybrid cylindrical roller bearing (on the back) to optimise spindle performance even when using long tools to reach into, and get out of, deep cavities. Spindle speeds range from 10,000rpm to 24,000rpm.
Two models in the range – the MILL E 1400U ST and the MILL E 1900U ST – have integrated turning capabilities making them de facto mill-turn machines. This facility means that high-precision parts can be machined in one set-up and eliminates the need to transfer parts between machines.
All machines have generous-sized automatic tool changers (up to 336 tools), located on their sides, and accessed via ergonomically-positioned tool loading/unloading doors. The tool magazines also have their own operating panel in order to call up desired tools from the magazine.
The machines can be supplied with either the latest Siemens (Sinumerik One) or Heidenhain (TNC 640) control systems, as well as a range of onboard ‘smart’ technology functions all designed to improve productivity, process efficiencies and precision.
To increase and realise the machines’ productivity potential, MILL E series machines can be automated through the integration of different capacity pallet systems enabling their unmanned operation.
Customers with MILL E machines can also take advantage of GF Machining Solutions’ My rConnect ‘remote digital assistance platform. Fast, responsive and accessible, rConnect provides a virtual link between a machine and GFMS’ service and support team, often eliminating the need for a technician to travel to a customer’s shop.
If and when problems occur with machines, GFMS service engineers (operating remotely) can log in and ask for permission to access and view the machine via the live Remote Assist function to diagnose, and resolve, any machine issue.