Editor’s note: Wind turbines are trending toward larger systems to take advantage of the economy of scale. Hence, machining large parts will be essential and this vertical turning center will be needed for their production.

The VTC 5000 from MAG is an adjustable rail model offering a cross rail that is both an infinitely variable positioning and a machining axis, a combination typically not found on machines of this type.
The first of MAG’s giant vertical turning centers (VTC) in 5 to 8-m table sizes finished its runoff in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin and was shipped to a U.S. manufacturer of power-generation equipment. The VTC 5000’s 5-meter hydrostatic table can support extreme loads up to 150,000 kg (330,000 lbs), while turning parts at up to 75 rpm. “North American manufacturers in nuclear and wind energy, mining, and construction are all scaling up their equipment. We are taking our product development in that same direction,” said Helene Nimmer, Director of Proposals and Product Management for MAG. “The major components of our large VTCs weigh in excess of 25,000 kg (50,000 lbs) each and can be more than 14 m (48 ft) long. As a U.S. builder of these supersize machines, we can reduce the customer lead-time and simplify logistics, which can be a costly challenge for machines of this size built by offshore manufacturers. We are also positioned to provide quicker and more comprehensive service and parts support as an established global company,” added Nimmer.
The VTC 5000 is an adjustable rail model offering a cross rail that is both an infinitely variable positioning and a machining axis, a combination typically not found on machines of this type. The X/Z traverse rate is 20 m/min (787 ipm) and the rail-elevating rate is a brisk 2,000 mm/min (78 ipm). Full X-axis travel right and left of center allows machining from both sides and accommodates probing of diameters. W-axis machining provides improved part geometries, while the hydrostatic ram’s high dynamic stiffness allows heavy cuts and produces better surface finishes.
The VTC 5000 is part of MAG’s new series of large-table VTCs that includes 6-meter, 7-meter and 8-meter models. The 7 and 8-m table models have a load capacity of 250,000 kg (550,000 lbs). All models in the large-table VTC series have industry-leading power and speed performance, with S1 (continuous duty) table power of 200 kW (267 hp). The new large VTCs have a modular design, allowing various combinations of standard modules to create a machine tailored to specific customer applications.
VTCs can be equipped with an optional live spindle for grinding, milling, drilling, and tapping capabilities, as well as a C-axis for full contouring. Various tool tapers, including KM 80, Capto C8 and 50 taper are available. The tool magazine is ergonomically designed, allowing floor level tool changeout and eliminating the need for ladders or platforms.
MAG
www.mag-ias.com
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