Who never dreamed of a machine that can be upgraded on demand to follow the increase of his production? At the start we can’t always buy the most productive solution, but this is tricky because once invested, it’s not easy to evolve. Mikron made that dream comes true! Meeting with Axel Warth, Head of Marketing and Business Development with Mikron.
The modularly constructed Multistep XT-200 transfer system can grow with the life cycle of the products. Each individual module is a self-contained production unit. Typical markets are automotive industry and its suppliers, hydraulic, valve and pneumatics industry, medical technology and chip removal metalworking (Picture: Mikron).
The new Mikron’s Multistep XT-200 is a productivity centre in every sense of the word. The machine delivers parts of up to 200 mm³ in size machined on 5 ½ sides. Based on up to four independent functional modules, the system can be extended or upgraded according to production requirements and the complexity of workpieces.
Tailored productive solution… The user works with precisely the machine and production capacity he actually needs. Or to put it in another way: He can follow the ups and downs of the market with this equipment. At the AMB 2010, Mikron will present the newest development of the XT-200 with an innovative virtual presentation. Mr Warth says: "The XT-200 is ideal for manufacturers looking for precision in the microns combined with high output, but who want at the same time keep their investment risk at a minimum. Due to its modular design, this machining system makes gradual production ramp-up and output expansion possible".
…to follow your need Hence it is not necessary to invest for maximum volume right at the start of a series. In fact, with the new Mikron machining system this is a gradual process and can be done entirely in accordance with actual production volumes. Whenever needed an additional module is attached, not requiring additional chip conveyors and cooling units or further personnel. Parts with maximum dimensions of 200 mm x 200 mm x 200 mm can be machined continuously on 5½ sides – entirely without reclamping!
Perfect integration Each module of the XT-200 is in itself a 5-axis machining centre. Up to four individual modules can be linked together and one single operator is sufficient to handle the entire system. A single loading and unloading unit supplies all machining modules. The flow of raw and finished parts is managed either by manual loading/unloading or with an integrated robot. Thanks to the universality of the system, there are no trouble-prone interfaces like those with conventional machining centers. Deburring and cleaning can take place in parallel to the primary production time in the loading module.
Each module is a 5 – axis machining center Flexibility and precision are not contradictory in the XT-200. This is based, among other things, on in-process gaging that precisely determines the position and alignment of the parts. The handling of multiple clampings and clamping devices thus becomes very easy. Dimensional differences of clamped workpieces are compensated without compromise. This reduces the costs of fixturing devices substantially.
High level of flexibility and possibilities The machine can be changed-over from one series to the next within 10 minutes. The chip-to-chip time is in each case less than 1 sec. Milling, drilling, thread milling, knurling, chamfering, turning and engraving can be performed on 5½ sides without re-clamping the workpiece. Five interpolating axes and up to 144 tools are used. Beside steel, cast metals and light alloys, difficult and exotic materials can also be machined without problem. The Multistep XT-200 is thus ideal for the complete machining of small and medium-size series in the automotive, hydraulic and pneumatic industries as well as for a wide variety mechanical engineering components.
Cost per part is reduced with each extension of the system The productivity of the machine increases and cost per part is lower with each extension of the system. Thus, a workpiece can be manufactured initially in one module in 100 sec, in a two-module machine in 56 sec and in a three-module machine in 42 sec. "With Multistep, we really offer a new way of thinking to the market, it’s a real quantum leap into the future and opportunities for users are wide" says Mr Warth.
Think green…and more High production output and high end capacities doesn’t mean waste of energy with Mikron. The latest version of the XT-200 works energy-efficiently. This is ensured by energy feedback systems that are integrated in the standard version. Despite the integrated automation and peripherals, the floor space required is compact and service accessibility is easy. This is also a future-proof advantage compared to conventional machining centers. The new version of the machine affords the same excellent rigidity like the previous models, because this is the only guarantee for the accuracy expected from such a highly sophisticated system.
The Multistep XT-200 can be discovered through the brand new virtual presentation at AMB from November 16 to 20.2010 on hall 3, booth 3D78.
Mikron Machining Axel Warth Head of Marketing & Business Development Postfach 115 CH 6903 Lugano Tel. +41 91 6106245 FAX +41 91 6106681 [email protected] www.mikron.com
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