New Industry Products

GE Fanuc Adds Series16i-B CNC to its i Series

February 28, 1999 by Jeff Shepard

GE Fanuc Automation (Charlottesville, VA) has expanded the i Series of computer numerical controls with the addition of the Series16i-B CNC. An enhanced version of the Series 16i Model A, the new Model B is fully program-compatible with Model A controls and is designed to accomplish milling and turning with high-speed, multi-axis capabilities.

GE Fanuc reports that the new Series16i-B CNC provides nanometer interpolation and an improved high-precision contour control. Additionally, the speed of the PMC-SB7 machine-tool interface is claimed to improve productivity by reducing ancillary machining time with a speed of 0.033 usec/step. The new model also offers five-axis milling features that allow the CNC to rotate the tool length offset and cutter radius compensation while the tool rotates to a new vector. A new troubleshooting guidance software tool is included. The tool's on-board maintenance database can be customized, as well. In addition, a built-in Ethernet port in the basic system provides easier remote troubleshooting and program downloads.

“The new Series16i-B is the next step in the evolution of the popular i Series of CNCs," commented Jeff Kao, vice president of the CNC and laser business for GE Fanuc. “The Model B control gives machine tool builders the option to include more functions on a wider variety of machine types than ever before. The change will be transparent to machine operators, who achieve the performance improvements they need without the demands of learning a new control system."

The Model B controls are available for GE Fanuc's mid-range Series 16i and Series 18i CNCs, as well as the Series21i. All Model B controls are compatible with an extended line of motors and amplifiers, including the new Alpha i amps and motors.