Makino iGrinder G5

The G5 is a full 5-axis machine, with a B-axis of .5/1.5 sec (90/180), a C-axis at 100 rpm, a 60-tool automatic tool changer that will hold up to a 8.7 inch (220mm) diameter grinding wheel.

A unique two-axis coolant nozzle allows the G5 to accommodate variations in wheel diameter and changes in cutting direction while maintaining ideal cutting conditions. It also allows for intermittent rotary dressing, an NC controlled, hydraulically powered feature that redresses the wheel to reestablish profile geometry on the cutting wheel. For added reliability, the G5 features one-piece X , Y and Z -covers, proven 1-Series tool changing systems, and 10 micron cyclonic secondary filtration.

Thermal growth and stability are areas which Makino pays special attention because high speed machining and hard milling are techniques many shops are implementing to cut down on lead times and costs. Features that allow the machine to be thermally stable include an integral spindle with the cooling jacket linked to the bed temperature for part consistency, a coolant chiller to maintain high precision machining, core-cooled ball screws in all axes, and the use of high volume high pressure coolant. Coolant is applied to the grinding process at the ideal orientation to achieve better cooling than traditional grinding processes. These and other features achieve superior part consistency.

As far as stability is concerned, the stepped column machine construction provides optimum rigidity and speed, with close proximity of the ball screw to the column center of gravity, large LM guides, reduced column weight, and dual supported pre-tensioned ball screws. Also, the NC rotary table has a large diameter bearing surface, assuring rigidity.