News | April 4, 2000

Revolutionary Mitsubishi Milling Centers Out Machine CNC Vertical Machining Centers 4 To 1 for Small Lot Sizes

Source: Mitsubishi Machine Tools

The Mitsubishi Machine Tools V360/V500 milling centers which offer automatic programming functions coupled with the familiarity of a conventional knee mill, are the ideal and most economical choice for toolroom applications, one piece lot size jobs and prototypes. The V360 and V500 out machine vertical machining centers four pieces to one due to the milling centers' innovative PC-controlled teaching/playback technique which replaces the complex programming and tedious debugging necessary for CNC operations. They also outperform conventional knee mills with the ability to memorize and automatically repeat manual movements made during production of the first part in a lot.

Featuring a one-piece bed-column casting and compact footprint with high power 10 hp (V360) or 15 hp (V500) motors capable of aluminum and steel machining, the V360 40-taper and V500 50-taper milling centers offer an opportunity to upgrade or replace conventional milling machines for all general-purpose milling needs.

These milling centers eliminate the complexity of programming and increase productivity of small lots by allowing the machinist to cut the first workpiece by operating the handwheels--in the same manner as one would with a knee mill. Simultaneously, through the milling centers' teaching capability, the machining pattern is documented and memorized--just like a desktop computer macro. When that exact pattern needs to be activated to cut duplicate pieces, it can simply be recalled through the playback function on the PC-driven control. The milling centers then generate the program from memory and automatically repeat the cutting sequence (face mill, spot drill, drill, tap, etc.) exactly as the machinist did the first time. There's no need for further handwheel operation, which makes the V360/V500 a more time-efficient alternative to conventional milling. Consequently, for operators hesitant to try NC machining, the V360/V500 milling centers are an affordable solution to taking the first step towards introducing CNC machines. The user-friendly PC-control allows machinists to become familiar with computerized machining functions without the hassle of programming.

Plus, an on-line tutorial is included that can be used at any time to provide simple step-by-step operating instructions. When accessed, the tutorial displays an index of operational functions. Once a function is selected, an instructional video is shown on that specific procedure. With this easy-to-use format, the tutorial allows learning to be achieved at the operator's own pace.