Tongtai VU Series – 3-5 Axis Rotary Ultrasonic Assisted Machining Centers
The Tongtai VU-5 is a 3-axis (5-axis with trunnion table) dual-function vertical machining center that offers rotary ultrasonic assisted machining capability. Rotary ultrasonic machining combines high speed spindle rotation with high frequency vertical vibration of the cutting tool. The diamond tool impacts the material with high contact speed, reducing cutting force and producing ultra-fine finishes three to five times faster than conventional machining. Typical applications include microhole drilling and machining of any material that is softer than the cutting tool, including glass, sapphire, silicon carbide, quartz, ceramic, hardened steel, high nickel alloys, and non-ferrous materials.
The compact, fixed column/moving table style VU-5 features roller type linear slideways and a Meehanite cast iron frame for fast, precise movement and high rigidity. X, Y, and Z axis travels are 20″ x 15.7″ x 13.8″ (508 mm x 398 mm x 350 mm) respectively. Class 3, double-nut pre-loaded 25mm (1″) diameter ballscrews permit a standard rapid traverse rate of 1,890 inches/minute (48 m/min) in all axes with acceleration of 1.2 G. An APS (Absolute Pulse Coder) servo system does not require zero return; the machine can be started from any position. A standard bed flushing system provides efficient chip removal.
A high-speed 30-tool arm-type automatic tool changer provides 0.8 sec. tool changes and 1.3 sec. chip to chip times. The 3 hp, 24,000 rpm direct drive spindle employs a dual contact Big Plus 30 taper (BBT-30) toolholding system. Through-spindle coolant capability is standard, as is a spindle chiller.
Automatic frequency search and lock via M-codes is standard for ultrasonic operation. Auto tuning range is from 15-45 kHz and amplitude range is 1 – 10 microns.
The 3-axis machine is equipped with Siemens 828D control with 10.4″ TFT and ShopMill software with an Advanced Surface package. The 5-axis version has a Siemens 840D control with 15″ monitor, the Sinumerik Mdynamics Techology Package for 5-axis milling, and ShopMill.
