Precise shell processing for 120 mm mortar ammunition

Precision is no coincidence – it is the result of a carefully designed manufacturing process. In producing 120 mm mortar ammunition, the machining of the shell is critcal to ensuring the projectile functions safely and accurately in use. At the same time, cost-effective mass production demands a stable, compact, and automated process.

Compact manufacturing system with VT 4, VL 8, and TrackMotion

With the combination of the vertical turning machines VT 4, VL 8, and TrackMotion automation, EMAG offers a comprehensive solution for machining mortar ammunition shells. The shell is manufactured in just two setups—OP 10 on the VT 4 and OP 20 on the VL 8—while the TrackMotion system manages automated part transfer between machines. The result is a compact manufacturing system that reduces cycle times and guarantees reproducible quality.

Manufacturing system with EMAG VT 4, VL 8 and TrackMotion for precise and automated machining of 120 mm mortar ammunition in two setups.
Compact production line for 120 mm mortar ammunition: Combination of VT 4, VL 8, and TrackMotion for precise machining in two setups.

Customer benefits at a glance:

  • Precise finishing in just two setups.
  • Minimized downtime and manual effort thanks to TrackMotion.
  • Compact line design saves space and reduces logistics costs.
4-axis machining of a 120 mm shell on the EMAG VT 4: Vertical lathe for stable, precise, and efficient machining.
The VT 4 enables precise 4-axis turning of the 120 mm shell – for high machining performance and optimum dimensional accuracy.

OP 10: Machining on the VT 4

Workpiece: Shell, 120 mm caliber
Machine: EMAG VT 4
Technology: Vertical turning

  1. Stable machine design for high machining performance.
  2. Vertical clamping prevents vibrations and reduces chip problems.
  3. Ideal for initial clamping for precise machining of shells.
120 mm shell being machined on the EMAG VL 8: Pick-up turning machine for precise, automated finishing in the second clamping.
The VL 8 takes over the second clamping of the 120 mm shell. With a pick-up spindle and high process stability, it ensures precise finishing.

OP 20: Machining on the VL 8

Workpiece: Shell, 120 mm caliber
Machine: EMAG VL 8
Technology: Vertical pick-up turning

  1. Automatic loading and unloading via pick-up spindle.
  2. High dimensional accuracy and shape accuracy in series production.
  3. Perfect for the second clamping for finishing the shell.

Automation with TrackMotion

EMAG TrackMotion is a modular automation system that can be used to link machines together to form lines. At its heart is the TransLift, a shuttle on a linear axis that transports workpieces quickly and precisely between the VT 4 and VL 8 machines. At the same time, the track serves as a buffer to ensure a continuous flow of parts and avoid machine downtime.

EMAG TrackMotion with TransLift: Shuttle system for the automated, precise transport and buffering of 120 mm shells between VT 4 and VL 8.
The TrackMotion system with TransLift transports 120 mm shells quickly and precisely between VT 4 and VL 8, ensuring a continuous flow of parts.

Advantages for ammunition production:

  • Shorter cycle times  thanks to fast parts transport.
  • Space-saving integration without separate interlinking conveyors.
  • High process stability, as manual intervention is no longer necessary.
  • Flexibly expandable  if additional processing steps or calibers are to be manufactured.

Machines

(2) macchine trovate

VL 8

Modular
  • Ø max. pezzo: 400 mm | 15.5 in
  • Lunghezza max. pezzo: 300 mm | 12 in
  • Diametro massimo mandrino: 500 mm | 19.5 in
  • Ø max. pezzo: 200 mm | 8 in
  • Lunghezza max. pezzo: 630 mm | 25 in
  • Diametro massimo mandrino: 250 mm | 10 in

Workpieces

Technologies

Tecnologie

Complex Manufacturing Systems from a Single Source thanks to a High Range of Technologies

Vertical turning is a machining process for metal components. EMAG was one of the first machine tool manufacturers to use the vertical turning process…

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