Test machining on a mill/turn centre usingtwo spindles, two turrets and Y-axis, has shown that times can be cut by over 40% and the work of four machines carried out by one machine.

Two spindles, two turrets, Y-axis control, and up to eight axes in one complete multi-axis turning package - it has to be the Mori Seiki ZT, which can be seen on stand 5340 at MACH 2006. Combining operations provides significant savings during manufacture. Components which previously required several turning and milling operations on separate machines can frequently be done in one operation on the ZT.

Not only does this reduce machining and handling times, but it also improves quality by eliminating resetting operations and their associated errors, as well as, making far better use of available space on the shop floor.

Test machining by Mori Seiki has shown that machining times can be cut by over 40% and the work of four machines carried out by one machine and one operator.

The ZT machines offer increased capacity.

The ZT1500YB has 1000mm between spindle large noses, a maximum turning diameter of 190mm, bar work capacity of 65mm and Y-axis travel of 100mm, the largest in its class.

Using the technology available on the machine, multiple operations can be carried out simultaneously, integrating processes and balancing machining times to achieve the optimum cycle time.

The ZT's dual turrets include a quick change type turret for VDI tools, dramatically reducing tool change times.

Fast setting further adds to the flexibility of the machine.

Smaller batch sizes are viable, helping users to offer shorter delivery times to their customers, and at the same time reduce inventory levels.

Castings for the ZT have been designed to maximise the stiffness of the machine structure using high quality Japanese manufactured castings, with carefully designed ribbing for optimum chip removal.

Combined with the high output oil cooled spindle, which is 18.5kW on the ZT1500, the machine can achieve metal removal rates of 162.7mlitre/minute at 6mm depth of cut and precision finishes of 1.07 micron Ry.

* MS Pollard at MACH 2006, NEC, Birmingham, UK, May 15-19, Hall 5, Stand 5340.

* About MSPollard - wholly owned by Mori Seiki Co, MS Pollard services and supports Mori Seiki and Hitachi Seiki machines in the UK.

Mori Seiki is one of the world's leading manufacturers of metal cutting machines.

It has its head office in Nagoya, Japan, and employs 3,300 people.

It is committed to innovation, quality, and service, with a range of machines to cover all industry sectors.