Southern Gear Invests in Advanced Multi-Axis Machining Platform
Southern Gear will install an advanced INDEX G320 Turn-Mill Center to produce medium-sized aerospace gears with high complexity and precision on a single machine.
By performing multiple operations, including turning, milling, spline and gear cutting, OD/ID grinding, and even power skiving on just one machine, Southern Gear expects to significantly reduce cost and lead times. The consolidation of processes will eliminate multiple setups and non-productive time, while ensuring exceptional bore-to-tooth, spline-to-tooth, and other critical concentricity and geometric accuracies.
The modular design of the INDEX G320 offers a wide range of machining capabilities and configurations. The system includes advanced multi-axis functionality, integrated tooling systems and turnkey process development to support complex part production. The machine features main and counter spindles designed for bar diameters up to 102 mm and chuck part diameters up to 315 mm.
Up to three tool carriers, with storage capacity for as many as 141 tools, can be integrated into the work area, providing maximum flexibility for complete machining of complex workpieces. The spacious work area accommodates shaft-type parts up to 1,400 mm in length.
The INDEX G320 includes a high-performance motor-milling spindle capable of simultaneous five-axis machining, supporting advanced processes such as spiral-bevel gear manufacturing through five-axis interpolation. Its rigid, vibration-damping mineral-cast mono-block machine bed, combined with large-dimension linear guides and rapid traverse rates up to 50 m/min, delivers exceptional speed, stability and productivity.
“The INDEX G320 is tailor-made for the high-precision, mid- to higher-volume gear projects we specialize in,” Southern Gear National Sales Director Jim Granitsas said. “Bringing this level of capability into a single platform adds much-needed capacity and helps us shorten delivery timelines for an aerospace and defense supply chain that continues to face significant demand pressures. We’re excited to begin quoting new opportunities where cost efficiency and lead time are critical.”
