Florence, Kentucky, July 13, 2009 – Mazak is currently investing $9 million in new machines at its lean manufacturing plant in Florence, Kentucky. This investment involves installation of four new VERSATECH V-100N machines. Two of the machines have already been installed and put into production lines. The V-100Ns replace six of the older V-100 models from Mazak’s FMS line and allow for much higher levels of productivity.
The V-100N is a multiple surface 5-axis double column machining center that provides unsurpassed productivity in the machining of very large work pieces. The machines are equipped with a unique and powerful spindle head that can position to the vertical and horizontal positions and any angle in between. Depending on the part being produced, the new machines result in a productivity improvement between 40% and 70%
“Mazak really believes that for those who want to reap the benefits when the economy turns around, now is the time to invest in new technology,” says Brian Papke, president of Mazak. “These machines not only represent new technology, but also a new approach to production. Through higher productivity and efficiency, we are truly moving to a production-on-demand model. This allows us much greater flexibility in meeting customers’ needed product configurations. The old days of building to a forecast, accumulating inventory and then selling that inventory at reduced prices doesn’t work anymore. We need to be fast, responsive to change and build to the customer’s order specifications. We now manufacture over 35 basic product models including the well-accepted NEXUS vertical and turning centers with multi-tasking capability”
The technology investment follows a recent $3.5 million building expansion at Mazak’s Florence manufacturing facility. Customers will have the opportunity to view the new equipment, along with quite a few new products being introduced, at Mazak’s "Your Manufacturing Future? Refocus. Rediscover. Reinvent." (R3) event taking place in Fall 2009.