Hardinge has expanded its rotary line to include two-axis models for complex five-axis machining to eliminate second and third operations in shops. When used on a three-axis VMC, the positioning system is said to eliminate the need for sine plates and other fixtures for angular milling.

The two-axis unit is a combination of two of the company’s rotary systems. It can be used as a single component for five-axis machining or disassembled for separate operating use. The tilting A axis is the standard 16C rotary unit, while the rotating B axis is the standard 5C rotary unit. The base 16C rotary can tilt ±180 degrees from the 12 o’clock position for a full 360-degree tilt. Adjustable hardware limit switches and programmable software limits protect large workholding fixtures by limiting travel to reduce the risk of crashes. The 16C rotary system has a center height of 6" (152.4 mm), a clamping torque of 233 foot pounds (315 Nm), TIR of 0.0002" and a 40-arcsecond backlash.

The 5C rotary unit is precision aligned to the spindle center to provide tilting in a B axis. It can index as fast as 360 degrees per second and features 82-foot-pound (108 Nm) torque, TIR of 0.0002" and a 40-arcsecond backlash. The 5C threaded-nose spindle will accept collets, step chucks, manual chucks, expanding collets and face or fixture plates. Systems are available in single, dual, triple and quad configurations for multiple-part machining and increased productivity.