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Designed specially for high-speed maching of graphite, a machining centre is built on a polymer concrete base, providing the best damping properties and exceptional stability

The Mikron HSM 300 GraphiteMaster machining centre from GF AgieCharmilles introduced a cost-effective system designed specially for high-speed machining of graphite. A fully integrated extractor unit, a sturdy polymer concrete base and state-of-the-art Heidenhain iTNC530 control system are some of the features that provide clean, precise, reliable machining said the company.

The Mikron HSM 300 GraphiteMaster is built on a polymer concrete base, providing the best damping properties and exceptional stability.

Zero-play linear guides and highly accurate drive spindles ensure precise positioning and high rigidity with axis acceleration rates of up to 1.7G.

The digital drive technology guarantees optimal machine dynamics when performing complex 3D machining.

In addition, the user-friendly cabin is designed for spacious access and maximum sound absorption.

Featuring the latest Heidenhain iTNC530 control system, the GraphiteMaster provides the necessary speed and control to perform the most complex applications.

* Clean and efficient machining of graphites - a powerful dust extraction system with suction frame is fully integrated into the machine bed of the GraphiteMaster.

Nozzles surrounding the machining spindle deliver compressed air directly to the machining point for optimal dust removal, making it possible to perform jobs without any interruptions.

The constant flow of fresh air protects the guides and the automatic tool changer from any contamination.

In addition, the table-mounted suction frame can be easily removed and installed again in only a few minutes, ensuring highly efficient machining.

This system is engineered specifically for optimal dust extraction when machining graphite and the control system provides the necessary speed to meet the requirement of very complex applications.

* High machining speeds and stability - the GraphiteMaster's heavy-duty spindle with its ceramic-hybrid bearing allows rotating speeds of up to 30,000 rev/min.

Designed for superb stability and a long working life, the spindle features constant grease lubrication, which eliminates oil drops from the spindle head - an important factor in the manufacturing of graphite electrodes, said GF AgieCharmilles to manufacturingtalk.com at EMO 2007.

The HSK-E40 tool holder delivers the highest rotation accuracy and enables precise finishing with the smallest possible cutting tools, up to 0.2mm diameter, as well as roughing with tools of up to 13mm diameter.

The standard machine is equipped with an 18 position tool changer and can be upgraded to 27 positions.

The GraphiteMaster is also designed for an easy interface for robot loading to allow unattended machining operations.

* Integrated pallet changer and Step-Tec spindle - the most recent edition to the Mikron HSM 300 range has been improved by the addition of integrated pallet automation.

This equipment was previously reserved for larger models.

In order to facilitate its integration into an automated production environment, a rotary table pallet changer with a capacity of seven to 48 pallets is now available as an option.

Machining performances are also on the agenda, since the 2007 version offers a new Step Tec spindle 30,000 rev/min / HSK-E40, specifically developed for graphite or metal applications with an increased power P(40% ED) of 8.5kW and torque T(40% ED) of up to 5.2Nm.

Use of the smart machine modules is now possible due to the integrated intelligence of the spindle.

Whether in its 'Mikron HSM 300 GraphiteMaster' version, specifically equipped for graphite electrode machining or in its 'Mikron HSM 300 MoldMaster' version, intended for copper electrode machining as well as the production of high value added parts, it is a tremendous production tool for the tool and mold industry and for other industrial sectors such as watchmaking or the medical sector, said GF AgieCharmilles.