Makino introduces the T1 5-axis horizontal machining center for high-efficiency productionMakino introduces the T1 5-axis horizontal machining center for high-efficiency production

Makino introduced the T1 5-axis horizontal machining center for high-efficiency machining across a wide range of large part applications. The machine's rigid design, versatile cutting capabilities and sizable work envelope make it an ideal fit for industrial component manufacturing and aerospace job-shop environments, where machining of both soft and hard metals is required.

"The T1 5-axis machining center is designed to handle parts of any shape, in any material," said David Ward, horizontal machining center product line manager. "The T1's unique casting and kinematic structure provide ideal accessibility to large prismatic or cylindrical workpieces."

The machine features a plus 45 degree to minus 110-degree A-axis tilting spindle, which, coupled with a deep chest column design, allows a minus 90-degree spindle centerline positioning to 550 mm (21.6") beyond pallet center. As a result, large workpieces that are 1-meter (3.2 feet) square by 500 to 800 mm (19.6" to 31.4") high can be machined in a single five-sided machining process.

The value of the T1's operation consolidating 5axis accessibility is compounded by its spindle capability. The torque and power of the 12,000-rpm spindle make it highly productive in the machining of non-ferrous, ferrous and hard-metal materials, giving shop owners a competitive advantage.

The high-volume nature of aluminum machining and high temperatures generated during titanium roughing present challenges for chip and coolant system designs. Considerations for these workpiece materials are inherent in the T1's systems. Key aspects include a high-pressure, high-volume through-spindle coolant system delivering up to 1,000 psi at 26 gallons per minute directly to the cutting tip. This system effectively eliminates heat from the cutting zone, extends perishable tool life and optimizes chip evacuation during heavy roughing operations.

Twin coolant tanks each store 264 gallons of water-soluble coolant. Standard cyclonic filtration and coolant temperature controller ensure continuously available clean and thermally stable coolant. Large chip volumes are quickly and efficiently removed from the machine via twin internal hinge conveyors and a dual-layer lift-up chip conveyor, enabling heavy roughing operations without limitation or concern.