With the new extended version INDEX MS16 Plus of the MultiLine series, the Esslingen multi-spindle specialists present a CNC multi-spindle lathe featuring six spindles for up to 22 mm diameter parts. The six-spindle machine, built from a multi-spindle modular component system, is intended to replace the widely used but costly to set-up fast cam-controlled multi-spindle lathes that still dominate the market when it comes to machining workpieces of simple to moderate complexity.
The INDEX MS16 Plus scores not only because it combines the speed of a cam-controlled machine with the flexibility of CNC technology, but also because its extremely compact dimensions (1,300 mm width) require no more space than current cam-controlled multi-spindle machines. In addition, the MS16 Plus offers exceptionally high ease of setup and more versatile machining options compared to cam-controlled machines. To keep up with the speed and efficiency of cam-controlled multi-spindle lathes for small parts up to 22 mm diameter, the INDEX engineers have come up with a number of good ideas. In the full expansion of the MS16 Plus, each spindle position can optionally be associated with a highly stable grooving or boring slide with 1 NC axis and a cross-slide with 2 NC axes (X- and Z-axes) that are arranged around each work spindle in a V-shape, allowing easy use of several tools simultaneously on each work spindle. The NC-controlled synchronous spindle for gripping the workpiece and an NC cutoff and back-boring slide provide optimal conditions for efficient production of turned parts with simple to medium complexity and up to approx 70 mm length. Optionally, machining on the cutoff side can be divided between a cutoff slide and a separate rear machining unit to reduce cycle time. As usual with INDEX multi-spindle machines, all technologies that are available on turning centers and automatic lathes can also be used on this new six-spindle MS16 Plus, such as: turning, drilling, milling, tapping, deep hole drilling or slotting. Live tools and auxiliary equipment that can be mounted on all slides as well as the C-axes of the work spindles open up additional production options, such as: off-center drilling and tapping without compensating chuck, oblique and cross drilling, contour milling, hobbing and polygon turning.
