Emag VT 4-Axes Lathes for Shaft Production Maximum Performance

The dual tool turrets of VT Series lathes, each with 11 stations (all of which can be equipped with turning tools along with driven tools), are said to guarantee flexibility. Photo Credit: EMAG

Manufacturing large quantities of shafts requires fast processes. Emag’s VT 2 and VT 4 lathes are said to provide not only precise and efficient machining, but their integrated loading and unloading systems also deliver optimum speed and performance. With short cycle times, high-precision machining and safe processing, the turning machines of the VT series are said to literally turn the classic horizontal machining process on its head.

In addition to employing four axes, short travels and a powerful main spindle, these modular lathes are twin-sided, enabling large batch components to be manufactured quickly. The dual tool turrets — each with 11 stations, all of which can be equipped with turning tools along with driven tools — are said to guarantee flexibility. Automation is fully integrated on these lathes. The turret loads and unloads work pieces into the machining area. While one gripper, occupying the twelfth position of the turret, conveys a new raw part into the machine, the other removes the finished component. The loading process can take as little as six seconds, depending on the workpiece.

The VT 2 can handle workpiece diameters up to 4" (100 mm) and lengths up to 15.5" (400 mm). The VT 4 accepts shafts up to 8" (200 mm) in diameter and up to 25" (630 mm) long.

Some advantages of the VT series include shorter cycle times through four-axes machining, less expense for automation and peripherals, and reduced idle times through cycle time-concurrent loading and unloading, the company says. The machine can be used as a stand-alone or in a production line. Easily accessible and operator-friendly workpiece areas mean short setting and resetting times. And less operator intervention because tailstock and steady are CN-controlled, and turrets can be accessed directly.

The company says the vertical construction of the machine and the resulting free chip flow prevent the creation of chip clusters. Raw part and finished component storage are said to form an integral part of the machine.