5 Axis Reduces Lead Times by 73%

The advantages of advanced simultaneous 5 axis machining technology are being exploited to the maximum by UK based Dunlop Aviation Braking Systems in the production of highly
complex stainless steel & aluminium alloy components for commercial aircraft braking systems. These components are normally required in very short batches, & in some cases
one off’s of several related parts.

The challenge facing Dunlop & Matsuura was to significantly reduce non-cutting time, set up time & of course to minimise lead times. Due to the nature of the aerospace supply sector to civilian aerospace companies, reducing lead times was crucial to Dunlop.

Matsuura’s highly acclaimed UK Applications / CADCAM Department undertook a complete Turnkey Package on behalf of Dunlop, the resulting solution being found in the 5 axis, 40 pallet Matsuura MAM72-S40 which has eliminated set-up time completely, a key factor in reducing lead times by a massive 73%.

Machining times have also been greatly reduced, as the Matsuura High Speed Spindle made it possible to utilise the most up to date tooling, whilst prismatic machining allows several operations to be combined into “one hit” from one rapid loading & set-up.

The integrated multi pallet system on the MAM72 Series of machines offers users long periods of reliable unmanned running, incorporating Matsuura’s unique & proven technology,
when required. A remarkable advantage of the MAM72 Series, with space in most machine shops being a precious commodity, is the fact that they only require a total machine footprint size of 17m2.

Before the MAM72-S40 was purchased, Dunlop had implemented a process of continuous improvement to make the most of their existing three & four axis machining centre’s & turning
lathes. The limiting factors on optimum production was the inability of the existing machines to utilise state of the art tooling, & the impossibility of reducing set-up times on component
operations between machines any further. By contrast, the MAM72 delivered immediate & measurable results.

Matsuura’s range of MAM72 machines have been a clear market leader for machines in their class for nearly a decade, a trend that is set to continue with the launch of new additions to the MAM72 Series in all sizes being delivered to the global market in 2005 - 2006.