Methods Introduces Reliable, High Performance FEELER VMCs

[Pam Laite]

FEELER VMCs Include Extensive Design & Engineering by Methods Machine Tools.


Sudbury, MA, U.S.A. (July 22, 2010) – Methods Machine Tools, Inc., a leading supplier of innovative precision machine tools, has introduced High Performance FEELER Vertical Machining Centers featuring extensive engineering by Methods, designed to provide users unsurpassed performance and value. The FEELER VMC line is backed by Methods’ application expertise, support, and extensive network of technology centers. The Methods-FEELER vertical machining center line includes the HV-Series, VB-Series and VMP-Series.

“The rugged, reliable FEELER VMC line is now further enhanced with design and engineering by Methods,” said Mr. Paul Hurtig, FEELER Product Manager, Methods Machine Tools, Inc.

The FEELER HV-Series VMCs, including HV-800 and HV-1000 models, offer high performance machining featuring 1G X-Axis acceleration and 1.9 second tool change time in 800mm or 1,000mm x-axis travels. Roller guideways are on the X and Y-Axes. A 15,000 rpm, 30 HP direct drive, 40 taper spindle, FANUC 18i-MB Control with 4th Axis prep. and 30-tool automatic tool changer are standard.


The FEELER VB-Series VMCs are heavy duty boxway machines featuring a high torque two stage gearbox and spindles from 15 HP – 30 HP, available in 40 or 50 taper. Models include VB-900, VB-1100, VB-1300, VB-1400, VB-1650, VB-1900 and VB-2200. X-Axis travels range from 900mm - 2,200mm (35" - 87"), Y-Axis travels range from 610mm – 1,000mm (24" - 39") and Z-Axis travels are from 600mm – 800mm (24" – 31.5"). A 30-tool automatic tool changer and FANUC 0i-MD control are standard.

The FEELER VMP-Series includes the VMP-580, VMP-800 and VMP-1100 models with 10,000 rpm spindles ranging from 15 HP – 25 HP. The VMP-580 machine is also available in an APC pallet changer version. Machines feature linear guideways on X and Y-Axes and boxways on the Z-Axis. X-Axis travels range from 580mm – 1,100mm (23" - 43"), Y-Axis travels range from 420mm – 610mm (16.5" - 24") and Z-Axis travels are from 510mm – 600mm (20" – 23.6"). The VMP-580 features a 24-tool automatic tool changer and the VMP-800 and VMP-1100 use a 30-tool automatic tool changer. A FANUC 0i-MD control is standard on the VMP-Series machines.

The rigid FEELER VMCs range in weight from 6,600 lbs. (3,000 kg) – 48,400 lbs (22,000 kg) and include a two year warranty. The full range of FEELER machines encompasses Vertical Machining Centers, Turning Centers, Bridge Mills and Boring Mills. A complete lineup will be on display and under power at IMTS in Booth #’s S-9126, S-9119 in Chicago, IL, September 13–18, 2010.

FEELER machines are manufactured by Fair Friend Group (FFG). Established in 1979, FFG is one of the world’s largest machine tool builders and has major manufacturing operations in Taiwan, China, Japan and the U.S.A. FEELER is known for rigorous quality control and has invested significantly in highly advanced manufacturing equipment and research and development.

Methods Machine Tools, Inc. has been a leading supplier of precision machine tools and accessories for over 50 years, providing extensive applications engineering support, installation, parts, service, and training through a network of large state-of-the-art technology centers and dealers throughout North America. For more information, please contact Methods at 65 Union Avenue, Sudbury, MA 01776, TEL: (978) 443-5388, FAX: (978) 440-9405, Email: sales@methodsmachine.com or visit their website at www.methodsmachine.com.

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