Methods Machine Tools Expands Capabilities With Yasda Machining Center

Methods Machine Tools Inc. has expanded its capabilities with the addition of the YASDA YMC 430 Ver. II. The new micro machining center is ideal for the manufacturing and high surface finishing of small, complex features in medical and semi-conductor components, according to the company. 

Linear motor-driven controlled axes and a highly rigid machine structure offer operators the highest speed, precision and surface quality machining in its class, Methods Machine executives noted in a news releast. The YASDA Micro Center YMC 430 Ver. II has a high-speed 40,000 RPM spindle and is available with 3-Axis or 5-Axis capabilities. 
 
“We are very pleased to offer our customers who manufacture molds and components with challenging, micro-sized angles and geometry with a hard milling solution from YASDA,” said Steve Previti, YASDA product manager for Methods Machine. “A highly rigid symmetric frame design and unique thermal distortion stabilizing system provide consistency and repeatability, to assure users unsurpassed high accuracy.”

The YASDA YMC 430 can achieve linear positioning and circularity accuracy of less than one micron (according to ISO 230-2 1997). In addition, the HSK-E32 spindle on the YMC 430 Ver. II is designed to minimize vibration and offer high reliability and repeatability in micro milling applications, including roughing to finishing on hardened steel and other exceptionally hard materials. A symmetrical H-shaped column and a low center of gravity structure provide high rigidity to the YMC 430 Ver. II machine structure, the company claims.
 
The YMC 430 X-Y table has linear guideways and a linear motor drive, enabling highly precise machining and excellent vibration dampening. Linear motor drives include optical scales that support and sustain submicron milling performance. 
 
In the optional 5-Axis micro milling capability, the YMC 430 is equipped with a direct drive motor-driven, high-precision tilting rotary table. This combination provides multi-face indexing and machining as well as simultaneous 5-Axis machining without re-chucking. Applying the direct drive motor to a tilted and rotary axis creates backlash-free, high-speed, high-precision positioning.
 
The YASDA Micro Center YMC 430 Ver. II has X,Y,Z travels of 16.5 inches by 11.8 inches by 9.8 inches (420 millimeters by 300 millimeters by 250 millimeters), respectively. The table work surface measures 23.6 inches by 13.8 iches (600 millimeters by 350 millimeters). An automatic tool changer holds 32 tools and is available in a 90-tool, large-capacity configuration. The FANUC 31i-Model B5 control is furnished standard.
 
In 2013, Methods Machine announced its new partnership with YASDA, the Japanese builder of machining centers and jig borers. Methods represents YASDA across the United States and provides local application, sales and support expertise to YASDA customers.

Methods Machine Tools is a supplier of precision machine tools, automation and accessories, providing extensive applications engineering support, installation, parts, service, and training through a network of large technology centers and dealers throughout North America. The company is based in Sudbury, Mass.