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The changeability of Shibaura’s mill-turn machine tools addresses a significant challenge faced by machinists – the need to switch between various machine tools, which can lead to errors and processing inefficiencies. To overcome these issues, multi-tasking machines have gained popularity as they can perform multiple operations within a single unit, enhancing efficiency, reducing lead times, and cutting costs. The mill-turn machine stands out, seamlessly integrating lathe and milling capabilities into a single device. Shibaura Machine’s MP-U and MCW series exemplify this concept, offering the ability to perform turning, milling, drilling, and tapping operations all in a single setup. This eliminates the need for transferring workpieces between different machines, resulting in improved precision, shorter setup times, and enhanced overall productivity.
The milling machine is equipped with a live spindle function, allowing the tool to rotate while the workpiece is stationary. It can be a vertical or horizontal lathe, with the recent versions offering a variety of options, such as a Y-axis movement and a tilting head for positioning. Giving one machine the functions of two or three machines can reduce the number of machinists required, resulting in significant cost savings.
The MP-U bridge-style and MCW gantry-style allow the machinist to perform a wide range of applications in a single machine. By attaching a lathe table with a table indexing mechanism to a gate-type 3-axis machine and exchanging attachments, it can function as a 5-axis machine. This means it can be used for various types of processing, including horizontal boring, lathe machining, and 5-axis machining, all with a single machine. It’s a multi-functional machine that can handle the processing that previously required two machines, resulting in significant time savings, reduced setup time and the number of machinists required.
The choice of machine will depend on the specific needs of the application, including the size and complexity of the workpiece being machined, as well as the required production volume. CNC milling machines can be used for a wide range of applications, including machining complex parts with intricate geometries, such as those used in the aerospace, automotive, and medical industries. The machines are capable of producing high-precision parts with tight tolerances, making them ideal for use in applications where accuracy is required. One example of a complex machining application that the mill-turn machine is well suited for is the machining of gas turbine and jet engine parts. The machining of these parts is intricate, requiring both lathe machining and 5-axis CNC machining. Additionally, these parts can be made from various materials, making a single machine capable of processing them a must-have. The mill-turn machine’s 5-axis capability and its ability to handle multiple types of processing with a single machine make it a valuable addition to any machine shop.
When selecting a mill-turn machine, it’s essential to consider the manufacturer’s experience in producing CNC 3-axis bridge mill machines, vertical turning lathes, 5-axis machining, and automation. With over 80 years of experience in the machine tools industry, Shibaura Machine is known for its high-quality and innovative machine tools designed to increase productivity, reduce cycle time, and improve accuracy. Mill-turn multi-tasking machines are a valuable addition to any machine shop and can handle complex machining applications that require lathe and 5-axis machining.
Reach out to the dedicated Shibaura team at Headland now to discuss your specific application requirements and get answers to any questions you may have about the MP-U and MCW series.
