Methods Machine Tools, Inc., has announced the introduction of the new Fanuc RoboDrill EcoPlus, offering a larger 21 tool capacity and increased speed via an optional 24,000 rpm spindle. Two EcoPlus models are available including one with a larger X-axis travel and table size. 

These high-speed machining centers offer milling, drilling, tapping, deburring, and chamfering. Originally named for offering an economical price and an ecological spindle that returns energy to the machine in the intervals between cutting, the line is designed and built in Japan for years of continuous duty. Speed and versatility make the machining centers ideal for off-loading bigger, slower machines as well as for performing secondary options, regardless of production volumes. Easy-to-use, the high-speed machining centers are an excellent all-round workhorse solution for any job shop.

"The entire RoboDrill line is distinguished for its unsurpassed, exceptional reliability. We are pleased to continue this tradition with introduction of the EcoPlus," said Ken Corklin, RoboDrill product manager, Methods Machine Tools, Inc. "Building on the success of the RoboDrill Eco, which is known for heavyweight performance at an affordable price, our customers now have more options for machining larger parts faster and more efficiently with the

EcoPlus."

The EcoPlus D21MiB has a working cube of 19.7″ x 15.7″ x 13″ (500 mm x 400 mm x 330 mm).The EcoPlus D21LiB offers travels of 27.6″ x 15.7″ x 13″ (700 mm x 400 mm x 330 mm). Standard features on both systems include a 14.75 hp (peak) 10,000 rpm or 24,000 rpm direct drive spindle with precision-enhancing thermal compensation, HRV control and a 21-station tool changer. The EcoPlus D21MiB has a table size of 25.6 ″ x 15.7″ (650 mm x 399 mm) and the EcoPlus D21LiB offers a table size of 33.5″ x 16.1″ (951 mm x 409 mm). Both machining centers have rapid traverses to 1,890 ipm (41 m/min), accelerations/ decelerations to 1.5 G, 0.9-second tool changes (tool-to-tool), rigid tapping to 5,000 rpm; and high-speed reverse tapping (up to 20 times faster than infeed). Each are equipped with a Fanuc 31i-B Nano CNC with simultaneous 3-axis control. 

Options include high-speed indexers, a fourth axis, a signal lamp, and robotic automation packages from Methods.