Precitech introduced a multi-axis machining system for precision part production earlier this month, explaining the Nanoform® L 1000 was designed for “ultimate productivity and flexibility in diamond turning and deterministic microgrinding of optical lenses, mold inserts, mirrors, and precision mechanical components.”
The source is a unit of Ametek Ultra Precision Technologies, part of a global manufacturer of electronic instruments and electromechanical devices.
The Nanoform L 1000 reportedly has the largest swing capacity of any standard-production ultra precision machining system presently available. It can be configured with two, three, or four axes to produce spherical, aspherical, and freeform surfaces, and will manufacture parts up to 1 meter in diameter.
The 500 mm of X-axis travel allows for a longer Z-axis tooling plate, which can accommodate multi-step processes in a single machine setup. There is enough room for multiple roughing and finishing tools, metrology devices, and milling, grinding, or marking spindles.
Even accounting for the Nanoform L 1000’s 1-meter swing capability and 375-lb/170-kg load capacity, its performance results are comparable to those of a small frame lathe, according to the developers. It is capable producing surface finishes of less than 1.25 nm Ra.
“By elevating the X axis with an enlarged granite base instead of simply putting a riser under the workholding spindle, we maintain the same separation from the X scale to the spindle centerline. With this arrangement the accuracy of the Nanoform L 1000 is nearly the same as our small frame lathes,” explained Precitech v.p. of Technology, Dr. Jeff Roblee,.
Emphasizing the new machine’s potential for increased productivity, Precitech business director Mike Tanniru said, “Its ability to accommodate multi-step processes into a single machine setup significantly reduces lengthy setup times. Additionally this machine can attain surface finishes previously thought impossible on such a large swing machine, opening up entirely new and more productive manufacturing possibilities for our customers.”
The Nanoform L 1000 also includes an integral TMC MaxDamp® self-leveling dual-chamber pneumatic isolation system, which reduces its sensitivity to vibration. TMC develops vibration control technologies, and like Precitech is a business unit of Ametek Ultra Precision Technologies.
Precitech has installed more than 1,500 ultra precision machining systems for turning, milling, and grinding worldwide These systems produce rotationally symmetric, asymmetric, freeform and sculpted geometries, achieving form tolerances in the sub-micron range and nanometer surface finishes.
