Self-loading lathe picks up parts

St. Louis--The new Hessapp self-loading DV series vertical CNC turning machines save money by eliminating costly auxiliary part loading systems. The vertical orientation improves operator ergo-nomics, space utilization and chip removal, while an innovative downward-facing motorized spindle can pick-up parts up to 14 inches (350 mm) high and weighing up to 152 lb (70 kg). This integrated capability eliminates the cost, programming, floor space, and maintenance of a robot or other external handling device.

The DV series machines come in two models, both designed for machining components for the automotive, aerospace, compressor, and electric motor industries, among others. The DVH 150, 300, and 450 models are inverted spindle, self-loading, and unloading turning machines. The twin-spindle DV transfer 300 and 450 machines have direct spindle-to-spindle part transfer to maximize completion of both A and B turning operations. Both the DVH and DVT models can be equipped with either fixed-block tooling or 12-station DIN turret with live-tooling capability.

Three turning diameters are available: 6.5 inches(160 mm) on the DVH 150, and 12 and 16 inches (300 and 400 mm) on the 300 and 450 machines. Spindle drive is via integral liquid-cooled ac motors rated to 25 hp (20.5 kW) for the DVH 150, and 55 hp (43 kW) for the 300 machine. On the 450 machine drive is via a 75 hp (58 kW) with an optional 90 hp (68 kW) motor. Choice of CNC controls includes Siemens, Indramat, Fanuc, or Allen-Bradley.

X-and Z-axis travels are 6 and 8 inches (160 and 200 mm) on the DVH 150; 1 inch and 14 inches(250 and 350 mm) on the DVH 300; and 11 and 14 inches (280 and 350 mm) on the DVH 450 and DVT 300 and 450. Linear guides, scales, and fast-response digital drives provide traverse rates of 200 ft/min (60 m/min) for DVH 150 and 104 ft/min (32 m/min) on the DV 300 and 450. Repeatability is 0.000098' (2.4 (mu)); C-axis positioning accuracy is plus or minus 3 arc seconds, with plus or minus 1 arc second accuracy optional. Feedrates are fully programmable in increments of 0.00004 inch (0.001 mm). Short turret indexing times, tool-to-tool, of 0.7 sec for the DVH 150 and 1.1 sec for the 300 and 450, maximize time-in-cut.

Hessapp DV machines are rugged and compact, featuring a rigid mono-block cast-iron frame and footprints about two-thirds that of traditional turning equipment. Although capable of stand-alone use, DV machines are designed for integration into cellular systems linked by conveyors.