Machining center design simplifies cell creation

Interchangeable pallets and a cell controller allow different machining centers to be easily integrated into a single cell in a new flexible manufacturing system. Makino says it can combine 5-axis machining centers with 4-axis machines into automated cells because its machines have a similar size and interchangeable pallets. At last fall’s IMTS, Makino featured a cell with a D500       5-axis vertical machining center and an a51 horizontal machining center, with the machines sharing the same 400-mm standard pallet, allowing them to be integrated into a single machining cell.

The company’s Makino Machining Complex (MMC) features automated modular material handling that can link Makino machining centers with pallet loaders and operators. The cell’s 5-axis component is Makino’s new D500 vertical machining center, which contains ultrahigh-torque DD motors for superior acceleration.

Makino Inc., Mason, OH, U.S.A.; +1 513-671-3800; www.makino.com