Multifunctional Machine Tool Platform
Bourn & Koch’s MT3 increases productivity and quality. The one-and-done machine can perform grinding, milling, turning, and drilling/tapping machining operations on a workpiece in one setup.
Posted: September 29, 2020
The MT3 multifunctional machine tool platform from Bourn & Koch (Rockford, IL) is capable of performing grinding, milling, turning, and drilling/tapping machining operations on a workpiece in one setup. The machine is primarily designed as a value-engineered vertical cylindrical grinder, supplementing the company’s VBG offering in that arena.
The MT3 comes with a 42-inch-diameter t-slot worktable and precision grinding spindle with HSK-50A connection. The spindles are interchangeable via the HBK-200 clamping system, allowing for the correct spindle to be used for the application. The machine will be equipped with custom workholding from Advanced Machine & Engineering to manufacture a hob spindle cartridge from one of Bourn & Koch’s 400H hobbers in one setup.
The machine is expandable from a vertical grinder to a one-and-done machine tool system, incorporating various spindles and tools into an added optional cell that are automatically changed via Fanuc R2000 robot and Bourn & Koch’s alien claw end-of-arm tooling. This allows for quick changeover of most tools and spindles. A spindle rack and disc-style tool changer are incorporated into the cell to manage the various tools and spindles.
The machine is programmed via a combination of Bourn & Koch’s grinding HMI and Fanuc’s Manual Guide-i, employing a Fanuc 0i CNC control for all machine functions. A virtual Y-axis allows the machine to perform standard milling functions. The MT3 spindle features a Fanuc Beta-il 160M motor capable of producing 30kW from 2,000 RPM to 10,000 RPM, providing ample power and range for a wide variety of applications.
This machine platform is modular with future plans for a vertical gear hobbing machine and a 5-axis machining center.
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