PBS Machine Tools News & Articles

In January 2019 Tongtai turned  50 years old. And with that comes a push towards the future. Tongtai has released several new machines in the last 2 years including VMC with turning functionality (VMT-200), 5 Axis VMC with additive hybrid technology (AMH-350) as well as Ultra-sonic machining solutions (VU-5).
Tongtai have always and will continue to provide the “best productivity  vs cost ratio” solutions to their customers and the global market. With the ability to supply single functions CNC’s all the way through to mass production turnkey systems Tongtai are the ideal partner for any manufacturing organisation. No matter the volume.
With this is mind and Following several requests from satisfied customers, particularly in Europe and the USA,  the decision was made to introduce a B-axis head Multi tasking CNC Lathe.
 
Product placement
When comparing with competitors, Tongtai have focused on overall larger diameters with longer length capacities.
Tongtai TMS Series mill/turn machines are available in 4 different models, each available in 3 different configurations with up to 9 total axes. The standard TMS machine has a main spindle with programmable tailstock.
The TMS-S has a sub-spindle in place of the tailstock, and the TMS-ST features both a sub-spindle and a lower turning turret. Maximum turning diameter for the machine is 660 mm with bed lengths up to 2000mm
The TMS Series consists of the TMS-2000 (8” chuck, 51” bar), TMS-2500 (10” chuck, 76” bar capacity), TMS-3000 (12” chuck, 76” bar capacity), and TMS-3800 (15” chuck, 89” bar capacity).
With such a large working envelope and machine options, the target workpieces and industries include: Aerospace, Prototyping, Medical, Automotive, Tooling and Medium to mass production.
 
Machine Structure
TMS Series machines feature a one piece 75° mono-block slant bed that permits free flow of chips as well as easy access to the spindles and cutting tools. A true linear (perpendicular) Y-axis simplifies programming. Roller-type linear guideways in all axes and large-diameter pre-tensioned ballscrews provide precise position accuracy. Machine chassis are made of Meehanite cast iron for rigidity and vibration dampening.
 
Both main and sub-spindles feature dual-wound built-in motors with electronic high/low gears. Both spindles have a full Cs axis (0.001°) with braking system. Three-piece Hirth couplings rigidly lock the spindles in place in 1? increments for heavy milling and high accuracy. Spindle power ranges from 26kW on the TMS-2000 to 60kW on the TMS-3800. Both main and sub-spindles are liquid cooled for thermal stability.
The B-axis milling spindle features a zero-backlash roller gear drive with high-speed rotation of 33.3 RPM and +/- 120? of movement from the vertical position. It features a rigid 3-piece coupling to lock the spindle in place for heavy turning and can be indexed in 15° increments..
 
 
The integral spindle milling motor delivers 22kW, and 12,000 RPM. A 40 station with 80 optional arm type tool changer is standard, and an optional 10 station lower turret provides turning capability to both spindle as well as pinch turning ability with the B-axis. The automatic tool changer is available in either HSK-63T or Sandvik Capto C-6 tooling systems. These options mean the machine is especially suitable for small-volume, large -variety production
 
The extended Y-axis stroke of ±125mm mean less dependence on C-axis which results in shorter cycle times.
The standard Fanuc 31iT-B provides two-path control for simultaneous turning operations as well as 4+1 milling ability. The optional 31iT-B5 or Siemens 840D enables 5-axissimultaneous milling.
The benefits of multi tasking machining are proven time and again. However incorporating single clamping, easy tool set up and interchange ability means that machines become even more productive and increasing efficiency leads to a better cost per piece for the user.