Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Machine Tool, a Group company of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, has developed the micro V5 micro milling machine, the latest in its micro V series. The micro V5 has a bigger working surface table and wider process stroke than the current micro V1, allowing for machining with micrometer-level (1/1,000 mm) precision for large products or those that require fine milling using small diameter tools, such as molds for car optical components. The micro V5 meets demand for a range of applications such as precision automotive parts, large-scale molds for display casings and other products, separators⁽¹⁾ (the main component of fuel cells), and shaping blades for rotating machines.

The 30,000 RPM spindle incorporates a special jet lubricating system that circulates lubricating oil warmed to match the frame temperature to the internal part and outer casing of the spindles. The machine has a high rigidity symmetrical frame, with an optimal structure for heat resistance and machine rigidity, while providing attenuation with slide guideways for each axis, offering machined surface quality for a variety of materials. Thorough cooling of each heat source also minimizes thermal displacement, allowing for stable operation over long periods.

The primary spindle used in the micro V5 is a wide range spindle, which also ensures high precision with little thermal displacement. Further, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Machine Tool’s proprietary Optical Image-type Tool Measurement System can accurately measure the position of the rotating tool end using a CCD (charge coupled device) camera, allowing for tracked precision machining even for cuts with micrometer-level accuracy. The working surface of the table is 1,050×550 mm, and can accommodate large workpieces of up to 800 kg.

The micro V series lineup includes the three-axis micro V1, and the five-axis micro V1-5X machine with a tabletop inclined spindle and rotating spindle, expanding the range of applications to include cutting of non-ferrous materials, and producing various types of small tools. The introduction of the micro V5 allows for precision machining of larger products.

For more information, visit Mitsubishi Heavy Industries website.

^{(1)Separators are plates of metal or carbon with electricity flow properties, comprising the cells generate power in polymer electrolyte fuel cells. They are positioned between membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) with a catalyst applied to the solid polymer electrolyte membrane. The surface is etched with fine grooves that allow hydrogen and air to pass.}