Methods Machine Tools introduces a new line of Methods branded 3-Axis vertical and 5-Axis bridge-type machining centers

Methods Machine Tools has introduced a new line of Methods branded 3-Axis vertical and 5-Axis bridge-type machining centers. The machining centers offer an affordable, accurate and reliable best-in-class mid-range machining option.

Methods 3-Axis Vertical Machining Centers include four initial models: MV 800H, MV 1000H, MV 1100H, and MV 1600H. All VMC machines feature a 15,000 RPM, 30 HP BIG-PLUS 40-taper Direct Drive Spindle with Oil-Air Lubrication and Spindle Oil Chiller. Rigid box-way construction in the Z-axis utilizing Turcite B ensures cutting performance and machining accuracy.

The MV 800H and MV 1000H have 1.378 inch (35mm) roller guideways in the X and Y-axis with 2,362 IPM rapids. The MV 1100H has a larger structure with 1.77 inch (45 mm) roller guideways in the X and Y-axis with a 1,890 IPM rapid rate, and its Z-axis box ways are over 3 inches wider (side-to-side) than the MV 800H and MV 1000H. The MV 1600H is a heavy-duty 41,888 lb. machine designed for exceptional cutting performance on large, diverse, complex parts. The MV 1600H has a 21.85 inch distance between Z-axis box ways (side to side) and offers 2.17 inch (55 mm) roller guideways in the X and Y-axis with 1,417 IPM rapid rates. Automatic tool changers range from 24 tools to 40 tools, depending on the machine.

Methods MB 650U 5-Axis Bridge Type Machining Center is designed for the high-accuracy, 5-axis simultaneous machining of complex parts and significantly reduces the need for multiple setups. Equipped with standard linear scales on the X, Y, Z-axes, rotary scales on the B & C-axes, and thermal compensation results in stable, high precision part production.

The bridge-type machining center has a 15,000 RPM, 25 HP BIG-PLUS 40-taper Direct Drive Spindle with Oil-Air Lubrication and Spindle Oil Chiller. This performance package also includes a Calibration Ball, TCP Software, and Probe System for setting/calibrating precise tool center point. A Laser Tool Measurement System detects tool wear, damage, and breakage, reducing non-productive time and enabling automated operation.

Methods VMC's have the FANUC 0iMF Control with 10.4 inch LCD screen, manual guide I, AICC II, 2 m/ sec Block Processing Time (BPT) and 200 Block Look Ahead. The MB 650U Bridge Type Machining Center features the FANUC 31iMB5 Control with 15 inch TFT screen including a data server, manual guide I, AICC II, 1 MB of NC memory, .4ms BPT, 600 Block Look Ahead, Collision Detection (built in 3D interference check), Fast Package III, Ethernet and 2GB CF card.

Methods Machine Tools