Multi-spindle CNC sliding/fixed headstock turning machine for precision machining of small workpieces

Four turning spindles - four times the productivity

The TRAUB MS12-4 is a revolutionary multi-spindle sliding/fixed headstock turning machine that combines the singlespindle mindset with the high productivity of a multi-spindle turning machine. It enables cost-efficient precision manufacturing within an exceptionally compact footprint. The machine is designed for small workpieces with diameters ranging from 3 to 13 mm.

Unlike conventional INDEX multi-spindle turning machines, the four main spindles are not arranged in a drum but stacked vertically in four levels. Each main spindle is assigned a tool turret; depending on requirements, up to four flexible tool carriers can be added as an option. Two or four counter spindles handle simultaneous back end machining. The main spindles with integrated Z axis allow machining in either fixed or sliding headstock operation. As a result, all tool carriers and counter spindles can be flexibly adapted to the respective machining task.

The machine is equipped with a Mitsubishi control system with dual NCU, further developed on the basis of the TRAUB TX8i-s V8.

The modular design of the TRAUB MS12-4 allows for customerspecific configuration.

Compared with four single-spindle turning machines, the TRAUB MS12-4 delivers four times the productivity within the same footprint. The control system and all peripheral components, such as the bar loading magazine, chip conveyor, cooling lubricant cleaning, mist extractor, etc., are required only once. In addition, the machine, including the control cabinet and bar loading magazine, forms a single unit.

Thanks to its exceptional productivity and flexibility, the TRAUB MS12-4 is ideally suited for users in precision mechanics and robotics, electrical engineering, the watch and jewelry industry, and above all the medical technology sector.

Machine concept TRAUB MS12-4

Four times the productivity
Four main spindles for bar stock up to 13 mm
Two or four counter spindles
Four tool turrets and up to four Flex tool carriers can be used simultaneously
Large tool pool for setup-friendly production
Easy changeover from sliding to fixed headstock operation
Very compact machine design with small footprint
Generously dimensioned and ergonomic work area
Automation via integrated bar loading magazine, remnant removal, and either oriented or non-oriented workpiece unloading
Hydraulics-free machine: no heat input from hydraulic components - which also means lower energy consumption
Rigid cast iron bed and temperature compensation for high precision

TRAUB MS12-4 - Flexible by design

The TRAUB MS12-4 combines the advantages of a single-spindle sliding/fixed headstock turning machine with the productivity of a multi-spindle system. Thanks to the main spindles with integrated Z axis installed in all four levels, the machine can be converted from fixed headstock to sliding headstock operation in no time at all.

Each level is equipped with a turret featuring an X axis, an interpolated Y axis, and an optional Z axis. Each turret provides eight live stations, all fitted with KPS36 tool stations with W serration.

For simultaneous machining or special processes such as whirling and gear cutting, a Flex tool carrier can be added. Back end machining via the counter spindle can be performed using tools mounted on the turret, on the Flex tool carrier, or on additional stationary and/or live back working units.

The counter spindles and Flex tool carriers are designed as 3-axis systems in X, Y, and Z. All tool carriers are supplied with high-pressure cooling lubricant of up to 120 bar, delivered in an energy-efficient manner via frequency-controlled pumps.

Depending on requirements, workpiece unloading is carried out either by flushing or by pick-off at the counter spindle.

Versatile configuration options for customized applications

The TRAUB MS12-4 can be deployed in a wide range of applications to meet specific customer requirements. In addition to a fully equipped version with all components and axes, further equipment variants are available, allowing the sliding/fixed headstock multi-spindle turning machine to be configured cost-efficiently and precisely to match the requirements of the workpieces to be machined.

Depending on workpiece complexity, for example, two counter spindles instead of four can be configured. In this case, each counter spindle performs back end machining for two main spindles. Depending on tooling requirements, a fixed back working unit can also be installed between two levels.

Zero, two, or four Flex tool carriers can be configured and flexibly deployed on the main spindle and/or counter spindle. In the version with two Flex tool carriers, each tool carrier - similar to the counter spindles - machines two main spindles.

For special machining operations (e.g., gear cutting, whirling, deep-hole drilling, etc.), appropriate special components can be installed on the Flex tool carrier.

Machine Configuration Examples

Configuration 4:4:4

In the fully equipped configuration, all four levels are fully populated.

Main spindles and turrets: 4
Counter spindles: 4
Flex tool carriers: 4
Additional back working units: 0

Usage:
Workpieces with an equal share of machining on the main and
counter spindles and/or special operations on the main spindle
(e.g., production of bone screws using a whirling unit).

Configuration 4:2:2

The equipment variant with four main spindles and turrets, as well as two counter spindles and two Flex tool carriers, offers a very high degree of flexibility. In this configuration, the two counter spindles and the Flex tool carriers can each operate across two levels.

Main spindles and turrets: 4
Counter spindles: 2
Flex tool carriers: 2
Additional back working units (stationary): 2

Usage:
For example, typical sliding headstock parts in which back end machining accounts for 30 to 60 percent of the machining time of the main side. In this case, the main spindles operate with a time offset, and the counter spindles handle back end machining for two main spindles each. Despite the reduced equipment level and lower acquisition costs, the machine still achieves four times the output of a single sliding headstock turning machine.

Configuration 4:2:0

The equipment variant with four main spindles and turrets, two counter spindles, and zero Flex tool carriers, but with multiple back working units.

Main spindles and turrets: 4
Counter spindles: 2
Flex tool carriers: 0
Additional back working units (stationary): 2
Additional back working units (live): 4

Usage:
Workpieces with lower technological requirements on the back end and without special machining operations. In this configuration, the machine can be set up in a particularly cost-efficient manner. Instead of flexible tool carriers, back working units for stationary or live tools are installed. This allows the machine configuration to be optimally matched to the workpiece requirements with maximum cost efficiency.

Best performance for applications in precision mechanics and medical technology

INDEX provides optimal solutions for flexible and efficient production. Its engineers have integrated years of experience leveraged from many industries into the product development process. Products and processes are then tailored to specific customer needs through feasibility studies, efficiency analyses, and, above all, close collaboration with the customer.

INDEX products are modular in design and highly flexible, giving customers access to an extensive modular system for a solution that perfectly matches their application. The TRAUB MS12-4 multi-spindle sliding/fixed headstock turning machine delivers outstanding performance for users in precision mechanics, electrical engineering, the watch and jewelry industry, and medical technology - combining high productivity, top quality, and process reliability. It is the complete solution for high-performance machining of small workpieces.