One Setup and Infinite Possibilities Thanks to Multiaxis Machine Centers
Multiaxis machining centers are powerhouses of versatility that allow operators to tackle intricate geometries from nearly every angle in a single operation. By consolidating processes and maximizing tool access, these machines deliver unique value propositions and are a fundamental necessity for any shop looking to stay relevant.
HMC Platform Delivers Modular Precision for Complex Components
The Fives (Hebron, KY) Giddings & Lewis Horizontal Machining Center (HMC) platform supports precision machining of large, complex components through a modular horizontal platform designed for flexibility, rigidity and performance.
Developed with direct customer input, Giddings & Lewis HMCs allow OEM manufacturers and job shops to configure the machine to match specific application requirements. The Giddings & Lewis HMC 1250 and 1600 refers to size configurations defined by enclosure dimensions, available travels, and part swing capacity. A wide range of options, including customizable travels, controls, tool magazines, headstocks, attachments, and coolant systems, allows manufacturers to align machine capability with current production needs while maintaining flexibility for future work.
Designed for large-part machining, Giddings & Lewis HMCs are capable of swinging parts up to 3,000 millimeters with a shuttling capacity of up to 7,000 kilograms. Rugged construction supports demanding cutting applications, while a high-performance drive and way system delivers high thrust and traverse speeds of up to 40 meters per minute to help reduce cycle times.
Machining accuracy is supported through hydraulically preloaded ball screws that enhance axis stiffness, along with a hydrostatic rotary table that provides precise positioning during multi-axis operations. The platform includes a standard 10,000 rpm spindle, with optional high speed, high torque, tilt and live spindle configurations available to meet a range of cutting requirements.
Advanced software functions monitor spindle load, compensate for spindle growth and adjust feed rates based on cutting conditions to maintain consistent machining performance. The machine is available with Siemens or FANUC controls, allowing manufacturers to integrate the system into existing shop environments.
With integrated multi-functional contouring heads and programmable boring bars, the machining centers support efficient machining strategies that reduce setups and improve productivity. The platform is used across aeroengine and aerospace, agriculture, construction and mining, defense, energy and rail industries where accuracy, durability and flexibility are essential.
Powerful Multifunctional Machining Center
With the introduction of the new UMILL 1000, EMCO (Salzburg, Austria) is strategically expanding its range of universal machining centers in the 5-axis simultaneous machining sector, thereby creating the ideal bridge between the UMILL 750 and UMILL 1500 models. The new model was developed to meet the growing demand for versatile, compact and powerful solutions that combine milling and turning operations in a single machine, opening almost unlimited application possibilities.
As a result of the synergy between the expertise of the Italian subsidiaries EMCO, EMCO MECOF and EMCO FAMUP, the UMILL 1000 represents a logical technical development of the proven UMILL 750. The project was developed in response to market demands for high productivity, application flexibility and easy integration into automated production lines. Thanks to the 55 mm roller guides on the X and Y axes and the standard direct drives in the linear axes and torque drives in the A and C axes, this universal machining center guarantees precise machining even with demanding workpieces. With generous travel distances (900 mm in X, 1,000 mm in Y and 700 mm in Z), a large swivel range of the A-axis (+/- 125°) and a load capacity of up to 1,000 kg. The motor spindle with 15,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 138 Nm at a power output of 38 kW, standard with HSK-A63, enables effective material removal and perfect surfaces.
The tool magazine of the UMILL 1000 comes standard with 30 positions and can be expanded to 60 or 90
stations if needed. The UMILL 1000 is available with the latest control technology from Siemens (Sinumerik ONE) or HEIDENHAIN (TNC7).
5-axis Mill-Turn Machining Center Saves Space and Time
Manufactured in the United States, the G750T mill-turn machining center from GROB Systems (Bluffton, OH) is designed for complete machining of large parts from diverse materials by milling and turning in single clamping with incredible stability and high precision. This allows production facilities to save time, space, and investment costs.
The G750T features a unique retractable spindle that provides unmatched accessibility to the workpiece and is the most rigid when extended to the workpiece and allows for upside-down machining providing superior chip control. The Z-axis tunnel design allows tool changes to happen outside of the work area, enabling users to machine the largest part that fits in the machine regardless of tool length. The G750T can also be semi- or fully automated for lights-out machining with GROB custom pallet and part handling solutions, which are also designed and built in the United States.
The G750T offers reliability and productivity for machining a broad range of complex parts and challenging materials across a variety of applications and is suitable for a wide range of industries, including aerospace, mechanical engineering, medical, energy, die and mold and more.
Vertical Machining Center is First Step into 5-axis Machining
The VARIAXIS C-700 Vertical from Mazak Corp. (Florence, KY) is a user-friendly, compact machine that fulfills demands for speed, stability and power while it offers a range of tool capacities. This solid “first step” into 5-axis machining for some shops is a highly capable machine with a versatile sheet-metal enclosure ready for a comprehensive range of automation solutions. The design ensures seamless automation integration for facilities from job shops to large manufacturing plants.
As an initial automation option, shops can install a MULTI PALLET POOL with 2-, 4-, 6- or 12-pallet changers on the VARIAXIS C-700, a simple solution that virtually eliminates the non-cut time associated with part loading and unloading. To further enhance automation integration, the VARIAXIS C-700 provides both front and side automatic door operation. An optional automatic side door enables shops to load and unload parts at the side of the machine with a robot, which frees up the machine’s front work area and eliminates any interference between automation and operators at the front door.
The VARIAXIS C-700 also offers 30, 60, 90 and 120-tool magazines as well as random access magazines that eliminate the typical wait time with other types of fixed-address tool systems. This option is ideal for shops with workpieces that have short machining cycle times.
Mazak offers four spindle options for the VARIAXIS C-700 to help shops find the ideal balance of speed and power. The machine comes with the Mazak MAZATROL SmoothAi CNC, which is made specifically to maximize full 5-axis machining performance while running peripheral functions. Another benefit is the Ai Thermal Shield which ensures stable machining accuracy through machine-learning-enhanced heat displacement compensation.
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