At MAG Fond du Lac in Wisconsin, the machine tool builder is ramping up production of a new series of machine tools for large-dimension parts. Here, MAG ram-type horizontal boring machines are shown being assembled there.
Machine tool builder MAG IAS LLC reports it is investing in new production capacity and capability at its Fond du Lac, Wis., production center to develop a new range of “larger and more versatile machine tools.” The new machines will be an addition to the products already manufactured there.
MAG is one of the world’s largest producers of machine tools and factory automation systems, and the largest U.S.-based machine tool builder. The new family of vertical turning centers (VTCs) produced at Fond du Lac will be used to produce components supplied to energy, heavy-equipment, mining, aerospace, defense, and other high-value markets.
The machine tool builder reports it has secured contracts from such manufacturers and is producing VTCs with table sizes from 5 to 8 meters, and facing capacity up to 9 meters in diameter. These dual-column machines will handle workpiece loads up to 250,000 kg, and feature fixed or adjustable rail styles. MAG Fond du Lac is ramping up production and will begin shipping these new machine tools during the first half of 2011.
Also, a new model of MAG’s large, ram-type horizontal boring machine (HBM) family is being built there. The company introduced the new-concept machining system recently for high-volume production of wind turbine hubs — an application specialty that MAG is developing.
“These machines will bring new dimensions in large-part production to MAG customers around the world and will be joined by many additional variations in the coming months," stated MAG Americas president Bill Horwarth. "I’m very pleased that we are able to continue aggressive investments in expanding our product portfolio and range of manufacturing solutions for these important industries. We are confident that our business will continue to improve and delighted that customers have put their trust in us with significant new orders from all global regions, including the U.S., Europe, Middle East, India and China.”
Howarth said MAG’s ground-up, modular designs allow for economical customization of large machines, as does its fast build and delivery. Customers producing extremely large work pieces can have a machine configured to match their needs from families of pre-engineered and optimized components, such as columns, tables, heads, tool changers, controls, etc.
MAG's new machines incorporate what the builder calls “unprecedented levels of flexibility” with new multi-functional capabilities and green design, all focused on the lowest total cost of ownership.
