The vertical pick-up turning machines in the VL series represent a new machine concept from the EMAG Group, modular machines.
22 Dec 2014 | 3693 Views | By Autocar Professional Bureau
The vertical pick-up turning machines in the VL series represent a new machine concept from the EMAG Group, modular machines. The concept of modular machines is based on the extremely successful vertical pick-up system invented by EMAG. Experience from over 20 years in the development and sale of machines has ...
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The vertical pick-up turning machines in the VL series represent a new machine concept from the EMAG Group, modular machines. The concept of modular machines is based on the extremely successful vertical pick-up system invented by EMAG. Experience from over 20 years in the development and sale of machines has been used in the new machine concept which now comprises one of the most flexible and also most effective manufacturing systems currently available on the market.
The aim was to develop a system in the form of the modular machines which is ideal for use in the manufacturing of medium and large series. One common feature of all modular machines is that they have a basic compact design. Their small footprint means reduced floor space costs and flexibility in machine layout (for example, Chaku Chaku or close linear arrangement). Then there is their integrated automation. Every VL machine features an O automation system (depicted below) for workpiece transport on its left-hand side.
When combined with self-loading pick-up spindles, this concept of integrated automation ensures short cycle times and therefore high productivity.
However, thought has also been given to the machine operators. For example, all the service units are easily accessible. All the units (electrics, hydraulics, cooling system, cooling lubricant and central lubrication system) can be accessed at any time so that the machines can be maintained with consummate ease. If we sum up the modular machine concept, we come to one central result – falling costs! Low maintenance costs due to the use of identical components, excellent accessibility, reduced floor space costs due to the compact design, integrated automation and short cycle/idle times reduce the cost per piece to an absolute minimum.
The VL series – developed for manufacturing precision chuck parts
The VL series vertical pick-up turning machines were specially developed for manufacturing precision chuck parts. VL machines are available in 4 versions to cover as wide a range of parts as possible. The smallest machine is the VL 2, which is designed for chuck parts up to 100 mm in diameter. Then come the VL 4, VL 6 and VL 8 machines in which the size of the workpieces that can be handled increases by 100 mm with each machine. This means that the VL series covers a range of workpieces up to 400 mm in diameter.
Every VL machine features a tool turret with up to twelve (driven) tools for machining chuck parts, which ensures short swiveling times and therefore falling cycle times. Furthermore, the machines can be fitted with a Y-axis in the turret to allow for the machining of complex geometries. The possible fields of applications for the machines are thus increased massively.
The entire machine concept is based on maximum component quality. The machine body is made of vibration-absorbing MINERALIT polymer concrete. Together with the self-loading high performance spindle which completely eliminates clamping errors, this ensures perfect machining. The vertical layout ensures ideal chip flow conditions, bringing an end to the times when operators had to give serious thought to chip clusters. Every VL machine can be fitted with an optional measuring station outside the machining area to allow quality to be checked at any time. The measuring station is installed between the machining area and the pick-up station. Measurement is carried out during transportation to the loading/unloading station, thus saving time.
Modern manufacturing with VL machines
EMAG’s VL series vertical pick-up turning machines are the perfect tool for reacting to the increased demands of the global market. The modular machines combine the latest manufacturing technologies with a smart design to ensure maximum productivity from every VL machine. Whether you choose the VL 2, VL 4, VL 6 or VL 8, every machine enables you to manufacture top-quality chuck parts using the very latest technology at minimum part costs.