YCM's next-gen 5-axis VMC: A workhorse for roughing, finishing and machining larger parts
The YCM Alliance, part of YCM Technology (USA), Inc., has introduced the RX65+, a next-generation 5-axis vertical machining center (VMC) designed to deliver speed, rigidity, and accuracy with advanced structural, spindle, and control technologies. The RX65+ provides precision machining across industries such as aerospace, medical, die & mold, and automotive.
"Capable of roughing and finishing operations, the RX65+ is a workhorse in a small footprint. Suitable for machining larger parts with efficiency, it comes standard with an 18,000 RPM HSK63A GMN Spindle with thermal sensors for stabilization, a direct drive trunnion table with tailstock, and the Heidenhain iTN7 control," said Tony Pekalski, President of YCM Technology.
The RX65+ offers 24.40" x 20.47" x 18.11" linear axis travel, with 220 degrees of motion in the B-axis and a full 360 degrees in the C-axis. Its robust ram-type structure and trunnion rotary table allow fast, accurate machining of complex parts while minimizing setups. Built on rugged MEEHANITE™ castings poured in YCM's own foundry, the machine ensures stiffness, vibration dampening, and long-term thermal stability.
To further enhance rigidity, fixed, pre-tensioned, double nut ball screws and roller guideways are featured across all axes. This configuration improves machining performance, surface finish, and service life when compared to conventional linear ball-type systems. Hand-scraped joints maximize alignment and geometry, reducing reliance on electronic compensation while delivering superior accuracy.
High-Performance Spindle Technology
At the core of the RX65+ is a high-precision 18,000 rpm spindle with an HSK63A taper.
Built with air-oil lubrication, vibration sensors, and an integrated spindle chiller, the system provides the thermal stability and stiffness required for even the most demanding applications. Manufacturers can cut tough materials with fine finishes, while supporting high-pressure 1000 psi coolant-through-spindle for optimal chip evacuation.
Maximum Accuracy with Scales and Closed-Loop Feedback
To meet the strictest machining tolerances, the RX65+ integrates linear scales in X, Y, and Z axes, and rotary scales in B and C axes. This fully closed-loop feedback system continuously measures axis positioning, minimizing thermal and mechanical error while ensuring repeatable high-accuracy machining.
A state-of-the-art direct-drive trunnion rotary table provides a B-axis tilt range of +110/-110 degrees and full C-axis rotation. With a maximum part diameter of 650 mm (25.59") and a height of 450 mm (17.71"), the trunnion design reduces the need for multiple setups and improves efficiency.
Advanced Automation, Calibration, and Probing
The RX65+ is delivered with a Blum kinematics package that includes the TC52 spindle probe, LC50 laser tool setter, calibration ball, and Blum Axis Set software. Operators can easily calibrate and re-set all five axes when needed. The integrated BLUM KinematicsPerfect™ software simplifies rotary axis pivot point calibration and alignment checks, ensuring consistent multi-axis performance.
Supporting efficient workflow, the machine comes equipped with a 40/60 tool cam-type automatic tool changer (ATC), delivering 1.8-second tool-to-tool times with heavy tool and big tool functionality. An automatic ATC door reduces chip and coolant contamination, while inverter-driven cam-box motors allow quick recovery in the event of mishaps.
Efficient Chip and Coolant Management
To maintain uptime and part quality, the RX65+ incorporates multiple coolant management systems.
A spindle coolant ring with adjustable lock nozzles, air blast, washdown gun, and air gun work together for effective chip evacuation. A unique shower coolant system with up to 10 nozzles ensures thorough flushing of chips into the Jorgensen chip conveyor with EcoFilter, reducing maintenance while improving machine uptime.
Control Technology for Advanced 5-Axis Applications
The RX65+ is powered by the Heidenhain TNC7 control, the industry benchmark for simultaneous 5-axis machining.
Offering 0.5ms block processing time, 1000-block lookahead, and intuitive real-world setup tools, the TNC7 enables operators to achieve superior surface finishes and accuracy, particularly in die & mold applications. With modern connectivity options including Ethernet, USB, and RS-232C, the system supports integration into smart factory environments.
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