New machines, easy controls and a focus on environmentally friendly manufacturing are the headline-makers for Yamazaki Mazak at MACH 2022.
Mazak will exhibit a total of nine machines and three automation systems, that will include the UK trade show debut of Mazak’s new entry-level vertical machining centre, the VCE-600. The VCE is a high-specification machine available at a competitive price, that features a large Y-axis stroke offering maximum space for workpieces and fixturing.
A further entry-level UK machine is the QTE-300 MSY SG, a compact turning centre capable of high productivity that has been designed to fit into even the smallest machine shop. The QTE has a generous swing diameter of 695 mm and is equipped with milling capability, a Y-axis and a second spindle.
Mazak is also adding to its range of high-performance machines with the new VCN-700 vertical machining centre, the first of a range of performance-line machines that deliver exceptional productivity and the capability of performing dynamic milling operations.
The QTE Series machines on the Mazak stand are the first to be equipped with new SmoothEz, the latest generation MAZATROL CNC that is making its UK trade show debut at MACH. Featuring a 15-inch portrait touch screen, SmoothEz (pronounced ‘easy’) combines three features – Ez Machining, Ez Operation and Ez Setup – to deliver outstanding productivity, accuracy and, in turn, profitability.
Automation will also be a key focus with the UK-built CV5-500 5-axis machining centre appearing with an MA robot to provide a single source Mazak solution for customers, as well as the VARIAXIS i-300 AWC (auto work changer). Laser technology will be represented by the OPTIPLEX 3015 Fiber III, equipped with a high output 10.0k W fiber laser resonator.
The latest generation of Mazak’s phenomenally successful VARIAXIS technology, the i-800 NEO, will also make its UK debut. The VARIAXIS i-800 NEO is designed to deliver high-accuracy machining over extended periods and is equipped with an exceptionally wide machining area for handling large workpieces or jigs, along with a variety of spindles to meet every industrial requirement.
The VARIAXIS i-800 NEO is designed to deliver a carbon footprint 22.7% lower than its predecessor over the course of its operational life – a reflection of Mazak’s increased commitment towards environment-friendly manufacturing.
This commitment will be highlighted at MACH with the UK roll-out of Mazak’s ‘Go Green’ initiative that combines lower machine CO2 footprints with technology that can help machine users record, analyse and optimise their energy usage. This Smooth AX Energy Dashboards enable the precise reporting of energy usage for each part made on the machine.
Finally, Mazak will also be launching its new customer portal, iCONNECT, a highly secure platform that delivers advanced service offerings through digital connectivity. The new portal, accessible to registered Mazak customers, will deliver a host of benefits including remote machine diagnostics, monitoring and maintenance as well as parts ordering and professional training resources.
Alan Mucklow, Managing Director UK, Ireland and National Distributors at Yamazaki Mazak, commented: “MACH 2022 promises to be a window into the future of manufacturing for UK machine users. New affordable technologies alongside new high-performance machines, easy-program CNCs, plug and play automation, and an increased focus on environment-friendly manufacturing, all combine to deliver a blueprint for productivity improvement and enhanced profitability.
“The market for new machines and equipment remains strong in the UK and we are confident that MACH 2022 will offer a further boost to the UK manufacturing sector. I look forward to welcoming visitors to our stand and demonstrating the range of new technologies available to them.”