MDX-40 Milling Machine Features
1. SRP® Technology
Subtractive Rapid Prototyping (SRP) has several advantages over traditional additive rapid prototyping. SRP devices cost significantly less while producing prototypes out of a wider variety of non-proprietary materials with greater precision and better surface finish.
2. Functional Prototypes
Like all Roland SRP devices, the MDX-40 can mill a wide range of low cost, non-proprietary materials including ABS, delrin, nylon, and tooling board. This lets engineers create functional prototypes to test how well products will actually work. Handled by market focus groups, these prototypes must perform like the final manufactured product and survive a barrage of physical tests, including thermal and structural trials. For example, toothbrush prototypes undergo in-vivo testing for hand fit, brush reach and handle deflection.
3. 4th Rotary Axis
With its 4th rotary axis, the MDX-40 performs both unattended two- and four-sided milling. When one side is completed, the part is automatically rotated until all four sides have been milled. This saves engineers the time and reduces errors associated with rotating objects by hand.
4. High Precision
The MDX-40’s hi-precision spindle decreases vibration within the unit and produces extremely accurate models. It achieves resolutions up to 0.000039 inches per step and creates the most accurate prototypes for complex snap-fits. With ISO15448 standard collets, the MDX-40 also generates a smooth surface finish that requires little to no post finishing work. (Close up picture of milled model.)
5. Speedy Production
Roland SRP devices can mill parts in an average time of just over four hours. According to Todd Grimm’s independent study of RP systems, the SRP process saves time by producing parts that are smooth and precise right off the machine. Additive systems, on the other hand, typically require time-consuming post finishing processes.
6. Bundled Software
MODELA Player 4 is a CAM software application that accepts IGES, DXF and STL files exported from the most popular industrial 3D CAD software programs. It is used to generate proportional 3D scaling, identify milling direction and automatically generate and display the tool path. MODELA Player 4 supports tool changing when used with the Automatic Tool Changer (ATC) and automatic side cutting when used with the Rotary Axis Unit.
Virtual MODELA enables simulation of finished 3D models and accurately estimates machining production time. Lighting effects, material color or bitmap overlays can be added for accurate finished product representation.
7. Perfect Office Fit
The MDX-40 is a compact desktop mill that fits nicely in any office. It comes with an emergency stop switch that shuts down the machine at the push of a button. An optional safety cover makes the cutting mechanism inaccessible during operation and keeps dust out of the surrounding environment.
8. Reliable Performer
Roland's international ISO certification is your quality assurance. Like all Roland products, the MDX-40 was designed and manufactured at a state-of-the-art, ISO-certified facility. Roland builds all products at its advanced Digital Factory one at a time by a single assembler – just like a Rolls Royce. Attention to detail is given the highest priority.