Compact Milling Machine Built to Reduce Cutting Time

Hurco unveils the VM15Di (XYZ travels: 30" x 16" x 20"), which it says combines productivity, technology and value. The VM15Di three-axis machining center reduces cutting times and heat transfer. It boasts a table size of 35.4" x 16", with a table load of 1,500 lbs and rapid feed/cutting feed of 1,417/1,181 IPM. 

The quick and quiet direct-drive spindle and CAT40 Big-Plus tooling is said to provide improved surface finishes. It features spindle speed of 12,000 rpm, with 22.8 HP and 24 ATC stations. These are all mechanical features that benefit mold manufacturing users.

The Hurco VM Series milling machines offer versatility and productivity with a compact footprint, one-piece machine base and solid cast-iron frame. The company says these small CNC machines are loaded with big capacity, productivity and user flexibility.

The Hurco VM15Di is equipped with the Hurco control powered by WinMax software and the specialized motion system UltiMotion, a feature that is the most important for moldmakers across Hurco’s entire lineup of machines, according to the company. Hurco says UltiMotion enables faster programmable feed rates, smoother machine motion, faster acceleration and deceleration in direction changes and when cornering and provides up to 10,000 blocks of NC block look head — which allows the control to see far enough into the program that it can plan the most efficient toolpath for a particular process. This efficient toolpath planning is a significant benefit when running the long cycle times usually associated with mold cavities and other mold features.

UltiMotion can also reportedly provide a significant reduction in cycle time and improvements in surface finish quality, extended tool life and less wear and tear on the mechanical parts of the CNC machine due to the optimized motion it provides.