Methods Machine Tools Introduces New FANUC D21 RoboDrill VMC Series Featuring Latest in Control Efficiency & High-Speed Processing.

SUDBURY, MA, December 16, 2012 (Press-News.org) Methods Machine Tools, Inc., a leading supplier of innovative precision machine tools, automation and accessories has introduced the FANUC D21 RoboDrill Vertical Machining Centers which include a new state-of-the-art control, the latest in the market today. The innovative FANUC 31iB control features extremely fast high-speed processing. This control offers streamlined electronics to reduce the number of components and provide a very ergonomic display. To significantly reduce the chance for downtime, the control provides efficient troubleshooting and maintenance capabilities, allowing users to analyze systems on the RoboDrills and receive notifications if any of the drives or electronics requires adjustment. (http://www.methodsmachine.com/)

"The high-speed processing provided by the new FANUC control greatly improves performance on the RoboDrill, especially in multi-Axis / 5-Axis applications," said Mr. Stephen Bond, National Sales Manager for FANUC RoboDrill, RoboCut & EDM Products, Methods Machine Tools, Inc. "And for unmatched dependability, this VMC series utilizes a high performance rotary ATC which can index up to five million cycles without requiring maintenance. RoboDrills continue to be the leading small machining centers in the market."

The automotive-duty-rated, versatile and reliable FANUC D21 RoboDrill VMCs are available in three models including the D21-S (small), D21-M (medium) and D21-L (large) sizes. The RoboDrills offer a 14-tool or 21-tool tool changer, torque to 56 ft-lbs, rigid tapping to 5,000 RPM (8,000 RPM optional), accelerations (in X, Y, and Z axes) to 1.5 G, rapid traverses to 2,125 IPM, feed rates to 1181 IPM (2362 IPM optional), high-speed reverse tapping, thread milling, 1,000 registerable programs, and 54 work offsets. Spindle RPMs range from 10,000 to 24,000 with the option to utilize tool changeable air spindles of up to 90,000 RPMs.

The D21 RoboDrill Series can be designed to meet customers' unique requirements including being configured for 3- to 5-Axis applications with fully integrated automation and pallet changes. Machine Tool Integration offered by Methods Machine Tools, Inc. provides manufacturers with highly automated solutions.

Methods Machine Tools, Inc. has been a leading supplier of precision machine tools, automation and accessories for over 50 years, providing extensive applications engineering support, installation, parts, service, and training through a network of large state-of-the-art technology centers and dealers throughout North America. Methods is the exclusive North American source of sales, service, and training support for FANUC vertical machining centers and wire EDM machines. For more information, contact Steve Bond, Methods Machine Tools, 64 Union Avenue, Sudbury, MA 01776, email sbond@methodsmachine.com, TEL: (978) 443-5388, FAX: (978) 440-9405, http://www.methodsmachine.com.