Two new models of high performance 3-axis milling machines are aimed at precision manufacturers in aerospace, medical, motor sport and general precision.

Market-leading milling machine tool specialist - Mikron - part of GF AgieCharmilles has launched two new models in its successful ProdMod range of high performance milling machines. The two new models - the HSM 600 ProdMod and HSM 800 ProdMod - are both 3-axis versions of the the ProdMod series of machines launched by Mikron in 2004 - and are aimed at precision manufacturers operating in the aerospace, medical, motor sport, general precision engineering sectors etc. The machines, similar to their high-speed 5-axis ProdMod counterparts, are production oriented machines and are equipped with features that deliver 24/7, high-speed and reliable performance.

The machines' technology is proven - and specific features include: To ensure that users can benefit from unattended and lights-out operations - both machines are equipped with workpiece palletisation systems.

These systems comprising four pallets (800 x 600mm) - each with a load capacity of 800kg - means that jobs can be set up on the pallets and machined in sequence without intervention by an operator.

To further ensure that machining is both uninterrupted and ultra productive - both ProdMod machines have high-capacity tool changers, with up to 220-positions, and a tool change time of 5 seconds.

In such production environments it is critical that machine tools have effective swarf/chip removal capability.

Failure to remove the chips from the workpiece, cutting tool and spindle area can create significant machining problems - amongst these are - a loss of accuracy and finish, and increased tool wear.

To prevent these problems - the new ProdMod machines are equipped as standard with a continuous rinsing system for the entire work area and the spindle nose - leaving both chip-free.

With the production of a high volume of chips it is essential that the machines have a strong spindle and robust tool interface.

Both ProdMod machines can be equipped with the latest spindle technology from Steptec and can be supplied with either a HSK-A63 (22kW/24,000 rev/min) or a HSK-A50 (32kW/36,000 rev/min) spindle.

In addition to the high-performance (and high-speed) spindle capability - the ProdMod machines have fast rapid rates - 40m/min and 1.7G acceleration/deceleration.

As with all new Mikron milling machines - the two ProdMods are equipped with Mikron SMART technology that helps users both optimise and customise the milling process - depending on individual requirements, machining criteria and parameters, etc.