Methods Introduces its Own Brand of VMCs

Methods Machine Tools Inc. line of Methods branded three-axis vertical and five-axis bridge-type machining centers are all engineered and built to Methods' highest specifications and quality standards. 

Methods machining centers are made to Methods' design and engineering standards by Litz Hitech Corp., and are backed by Methods service and support. All of its machining centers are inspected to meet strict quality and design specifications and also be in compliance with ISO/ASME standards. Laser and ball bar testing ensures performance and accuracy of each machine.

Methods three-axis VMCs include four initial models—MV 800H, MV 1000H, MV 1100H and MV 1600H—featuring a 15,000 rpm, 30-hp Big-Plus 40-taper direct drive spindle with oil-air lubrication and spindle oil chiller. Rigid boxway construction in the Z axis using Turcite B ensures exceptional cutting performance and machining accuracy, according to the company.

Additional features include thermal compensation using three thermocouples to allow the software to compensate for actual thermal growth. The MV 800H and MV 1000H have robust 1.378” (35-mm) roller guideways in the X and Y axis with 2,362-ipm rapids. The MV 1100H has a larger structure with 1.77” (45-mm) roller guideways in the X and Y-axis with a 1,890 ipm rapid rate, and its Z-axis boxways are over 3” wider (side to side) than the MV 800H and MV 1000H. The MV 1600H is a heavy-duty 41,888-lb machine designed for cutting performance on large, diverse, complex parts. The MV 1600H has a 21.85” distance between Z-axis boxways (side to side) and offers 2.17” (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.

All Methods machining centers feature FANUC controls. The VMCs have the FANUC 0iMF control with 10.4” LCD screen, manual guide I, AICC II, 2 m/sec block processing time and 200 block look ahead.