Five-Axis Machining Center With Integrated CAM Software Overcomes Skills Gap
At IMTS 2022, Jingdiao North America is presenting the GRA200 five-axis high-precision machining center which can program parts and measure them on the machine using its proprietary Surfmill CAM software.
Share






This LED mirror finished mold was machined on a Jingdiao GRA200. Photo Credit: Jingdiao North America
Jingdiao North America announces the GRA200 five-axis machining center designed to machine complex, tight-tolerance parts — including molds — for industries ranging from die and mold, aerospace, medical, energy or automotive. Highlighted in particular is the company’s Surfmill CAM software, which has been integrated to overcome the skills gap in places such as the toolroom.
In addition to providing a given set of directions for the machine, the company’s own integrated CAM system offers several features to aid the operator in navigating the GRA200. Prior to producing the NC code, for example, Surfmill is said to verify the program won’t crash during operation; an alert system has been included in the case a crash is imminent. To reduce machine downtime, an Auto-Alignment feature aligns the workpiece in the X, Y and Z axes. Surfmill is also able to compensate for tool length —measuring the length, in addition to the radius — and an On Machine Measurement feature uses a Renishaw probe to determine the critical dimensions of the workpiece and whether it’s within tolerance, providing a 3D image of the cut prior to removal.
The GRA200 five-axis iteself features X, Y, and Z axis travels of 20" x 11" x 12" and a 10" table. The machine is available with a 63-position tool magazine and an optional MHS30 material handling systems (pallet pool). The GRA200 mill is reported to offer a positioning accuracy within 0.000080" (2μm) and repeatability of 0.000070" (1.8μm). Its bridge style design and thermal cooling design system makes it highly stable, Jingdiao notes, and capable of machining micron-level part accuracy. It can also produce mirror finishes that eliminate the need for hand polishing. The five-axis can be programmed with Surfmill or users can integrate their own software programs to use in combination.
Related Content
-
Addressing the Manufacturing Labor Shortage Needs to Start Here
Student-run businesses focused on technical training for the trades are taking root across the U.S. Can we — should we — leverage their regional successes into a nationwide platform?
-
Solve Worker Shortages With ACE Workforce Development
The America’s Cutting Edge (ACE) program is addressing the current shortage in trained and available workers by offering no-cost online and in-person training opportunities in CNC machining and metrology.
-
Finding Skilled Labor Through Partnerships and Benefits
To combat the skilled labor shortage, this Top Shops honoree turned to partnerships and unique benefits to attract talented workers.