Meeting the demand for complex geometries, tiny sizes and flawless surface finishes isn't easy-but the new NTX2000 mill-turn center is up to the challenge. With a maximum workpiece size of 660 millimeters by 1,540 millimeters, the machine is suitable for a number of small-parts applications within the aerospace, medical equipment and semiconductor industries. First, Direct Drive Motor (DDM) technology transmits the drive power directly to the rotary axes without using gears to eliminate backlash, improve transmission efficiency, and reduce maintenance and wear. Octagonal Ram Construction (ORC) allows for more symmetrical distortion in the face of heat, for better precision and superior damping. Last, but not least, the Built-in- Motor Turret (BMT) minimizes heat generation and vibration and significantly increases cutting power, speed and accuracy.

The efficient, high-speed spindle design of the NTX2000 significantly contributes to its productivity. For example, both spindles have the same specifications, offering greater flexibility, and the tool spindle allows for Y-axis movement. What's more, design measures in the spindle and ram alleviate thermal displacement, making for more precise operation. A three-point support system- rare in multi-axis machines, but made possible thanks to a robust machine bed that offers long-term, high-precision machining that is less susceptible to secular change. Despite its large standard distance between centers-1,500 millimeters-the NTX2000 manages to achieve a remarkably compact footprint. Engineers have reduced the machine width by nearly 1,000 millimeters compared to previous models. This amounts to a 30 percent reduction in the installation area size compared to conventional machines-for shops in which space is at a premium. The high-performance MAPPS IV operating system provides automatic programming and ESPRIT CAM software. The technology allows for complex machine programming while maintaining ease-of-use and flexibility. The software also monitors collisions of spindles, workpieces, soft jaws, tools, holders and turrets-stopping the machine in the event of interference.