The new CTX beta 1250 4A from DMG offers two Y-axis turrets and transverse movement of a combined counter-spindle and tailstock assembly for highly productive turn-milling of complex components in one hit. In conjunction with the ShopTurn 3G control system and backed by intelligent handling solutions, this concept results in a flexible and productive, twin-spindle turning centre that allows very economical machining.

Harry Junger, managing director of Gildemeister Drehmaschinen GmbH said: "Seventy per cent of parts used in the construction of the CTX beta 4A machines are common to pre-existing CTX models; and we also use proven components from our TWIN lathe range to maintain high reliability and keep the price low.

"In combination with the versatility of the machine for manufacturing small batches of 50-off through to large series production exceeding 100,000, the new CTX beta 1250 4A offers our customers maximum flexibility of production as well as investment security."

The turn-mill centre can machine components from bar up to 102 mm diameter and 1,200 mm in length in both the main and counter spindles, as well as chucked workpieces up to 300 mm long. Both spindles have an integrated spindle motor that delivers a torque of up to 360 Nm at up to 5,000 rpm, while rapid traverses of 45 m/min allow short machining times.

Two fast-indexing VDI 40-DirectDrive turrets with 12 stations (optionally 16 stations) each deploy live tools rated at 14.2 kW (40% duty cycle), supplying a torque of up to 34 Nm at up to 10,000 rpm. In addition, both turrets have a Y-axis (top ± 60 mm, bottom ± 40 mm) as well as a DMG Trifix precision interface at all tool stations to reduce set-up times and increase tool precision and stability.

The new ShopTurn 3G control maximises performance from design through to finished workpiece. One of the innovative features of this Siemens CNC system is the possibility of multi-channel programming, for which the user can choose either DIN programming or WOP (workaround-oriented programming).

Graphical 3D shop floor programming directly on the machine, together with process simulation and convenient cycles, is possible via the ShopTurn 3G user interface, as well as time-optimised programming of complex milling contours and integration of customer cycles, externally generated program modules or additional technologies via DIN code. ShopTurn 3G also makes it possible to combine ShopTurn cycles with DIN functionality.

In addition, the control system provides an Ethernet port for fast data exchange, simple troubleshooting based on diagnostic messages, and functions for preventative service and repair. The large 19" screen of the DMG ERGOline control promotes reading comfort.