Cost-effective 5-axis solution brings high-speed, high-accuracy to complex parts production
FLORENCE, Ky., Oct. 8, 2013 – At DISCOVER 2013, Mazak showcased its new VARIAXIS j-600 5X vertical machining center with simultaneous 5-axis machining capability. A high-value solution for those considering 5-axis technology for the first time, the machine handles all processes from raw material input through the final machining to provide dramatic reductions in lead-times and improve workpiece accuracy through the elimination of multiple setups.For tackling a variety of part materials, the VARIAXIS j-600 5X comes standard equipped with a 12,000-rpm, 15-hp, CAT-40 milling spindle. An optional a high-speed 18,000-rpm spindle is also available. An ergonomic, front-loading 18-tool magazine provides fast tool changes to keep spindles in the cut and help reduce cycle times. And unlike other vertical machining centers, the VARIAXIS j-600 5X changes tools without having to return its table to the home position, thus further reducing cycle times.
An 1,181-ipm rapid traverse rate in the X, Y and Z axes further shortens non-cut times, while the machine’s high-precision rotary/tilt table provides a B-axis rotation of -120 degrees to +90 degrees and a C-axis rotation of 360 degrees, both in increments as small as 0.0001 degrees. By rotating the B-axis +30 degrees or more, it is unnecessary to reverse the C-axis 180 degrees, which leads to improved workpiece accuracy and productivity. Machine travels measure 33.46” x 21.65” x 20.07” for the X, Y and Z axes, respectively.
A table size of Ø23.6” x 19.69” accommodates workpiece diameters up to 28.74” and heights of 17.7”. An optional two-pallet changer provides simple automation and increased production by allowing workpieces to be loaded and unloaded while the machine spindle works uninterrupted.
Specifically for enhanced 5-axis machining, Mazak equips the VARIAXIS j-600 5X with the MATRIX 2 CNC control. The control incorporates both advanced hardware and software functionalities that make it easy to use while also delivering high accuracy and increased productivity for the machine. The control’s hardware performance is much faster with higher processing speeds for small increment operation, and a 5-axis spline interpolation function included in the control’s software provides smooth toolpaths from long block-by-block programs, easy tool vector control and shorter cycle times as well as superior 5-axis surface finishes.
The control also features Mazak’s Intelligent Machine Functions for ease of use and to further optimize machine efficiency. These CNC software functions include Intelligent Performance Spindle (IPS) for monitoring spindle status; Intelligent Maintenance Support (IMS) to prevent unexpected downtime; Intelligent Thermal Shield (ITS) that compensates for heat displacement; Intelligent Safety Shield (ISS) provides safe setup and manual operation; Active Vibration Control (AVC) to minimize vibration for high-accuracy machining; and Mazak Voice Advisor (MVA) for verbal support during setups and confirmation of safe conditions.