Vertical Machining Center Designed for Fast and Easy Five-Sided Parts

Milltronics Europe B.V. will unveil its VM250IL-5x five-axis vertical machining center at EMO 2019. Utilizing the Milltronics Series 9000 control, the VM250IL-5x is designed for fast and easy five-sided parts. The company will also demonstrate its ChipBoss milling software, along with its bi-directional turning software.

ChipBoss milling software, which will be shown on a VM4020 vertical machining center, uses proprietary algorithms to calculate tool paths and control maximum cutter engagement. The idea is to use the entire length of a tool rather than just the tip, enabling the machinist to cut profiles at full depth rather than taking multiple depth passes. This optional software works by automatically controlling the tool’s chip load, keeping it constant and creating the optimal chip and resulting in faster cycle times, better tool life and more accurate parts. Cycles times (depending on geometry) can be reduced by as much as 50% percent with up to 3-5 times better tool life. The software also improves part accuracy through reduction in tool deflection.

The bi-directional turning software, which will be demonstrated on a SL8II CNC lathe, effectively reduces the time it takes to turn parts by 50% as it eliminates the need to cut in one direction, rapid back to the start position and then take another pass. The bi-directional cycle allows for “zig-zag” (or bi-directional) turning, which results in significantly shorter cycle times.