Tornos CT20: New entry-level Turning Centre Launched at AMB Show

17 September 2014

Tornos made its first foray into entry-level machines in 2008 with the Delta range, and this product very quickly won over the market with its ease of use and excellent value for money. Today, a new entry-level machine is ready to win its own converts, the new CT20. The new turning centre will be shown in the UK for the first time at the THINK: Production 2014 event at Tornos UK in Coalville from 14-16th October.

Commenting upon the introduction of the new machine, CT project manager at Tornos, Mr Christophe Tissot reveals: "The CT project aims to introduce a true 20mm capacity machine that will offer unprecedented flexibility for an entry-level machine. The machine should enable excellent machining performance whilst guaranteeing a competitive price. It is difficult problem to solve, but the CT20 machine solves it brilliantly. This very rigid machine will enable our customers to maintain their competitiveness with Tornos."

One product, two kinematics
The CT20 machine is an automatic turning machine with a sliding headstock and a bar capacity of 20mm. Two versions of the machine are available with 4 or 5 linear axes. It can be equipped as required with two C-axes that increase its machining capacity. The 5-axis version can take up to 26 tools (up to 10 rotating tools as an option), which makes it one of the best-equipped machines in its category. By adding a modular tool system on the platten, it stands out from other machines currently available. In contrast to competitor machines that are often content with one fixed driven block containing radial drills, the CT20 machine can accept other equipment in order to better adapt to the needs of the part to be produced. Components that until now, required more complex machines and a higher level of investment, can now be produced on the CT20 machine thanks to its excellent flexibility.

In order to guarantee a good surface finish as well as a secure fit for the tools, particular attention was given to the construction of the frame. As with the Delta and Gamma machines, the design of the cast iron frame has been calculated to support major machining operations. Even within the limits of its capacity, the machine acquits itself admirably and will not be found wanting.

Greater flexibility
The machine has four compartments that can house special devices such as radial drills and much more besides. The CT20 can also take frontal drills, a thread whirling tool and a polygon tool. "It is therefore possible to machine parts with high added value requiring, for example, a thread-whirling operation on entry-level machines," explains Mr. Tissot. The numerous options such as the fire protection system are the perfect complement to this flexibility. On the 5-axis model, it is possible to add two rotating tools on the secondary operation block, an option that even allows the 4 tools on this single block to be motorised.

Two high-power drills
In general, 5-axis kinematics have the disadvantage of being limited on deep drilling operations - a problem the CT20 also intelligently overcomes. In fact, the machine can house two driven drills for deep drilling with the device using the counter spindle motorisation. This allows it to benefit from a greater level of power.

Mr. Tissot finishes by saying: "Intended to replace the Delta 20 machine, the CT20 brings its own innovative features that enable it to offer much more than the Delta that has already seen much success. We are convinced that the CT20 will quickly establish a strong position on the market."

Whilst this machine has already been on sale in Asia for several months, the official European launch will be the the AMB trade fair and for the USA, the offical launch will be the IMTS show. For further details, please come and see the new CT20 at the Tornos event in October.