Compact system provides 5-axis machine with multiple pallets and robot loader
FLORENCE, Ky., October 18, 2016 – Mazak’s VARIAXIS i-600 full simultaneous 5-axis Multi-Tasking high-speed machine can feature a MULTI-PALLET POOL (MPP) 500 for self-contained compact automation that is well suited for areas with limited shop floor space. The carousel-style system maximizes utilization along with the machine’s high-performance for advanced part processing.
The MPP 500 features a three-pallet rotary stocker in a two-pallet-high configuration with two sections. The system houses 12 pallets along with an external load station and an internal robot loading section.
Mazak designed the MPP 500 as an expandable system, so shops can initially incorporate it with fewer pallets and grow the system in line with changing production needs. Plus, the MPP 500 retrofits to other existing VARIAXIS i-600 and i-700 machines (equipped with 2-pallet changers) in the field.
The VARIAXIS i-600 features Mazak’s MAZATROL SmoothX CNC, the fastest, most progressive control on the market and one that brings extreme productivity advantages to the most demanding of machining operations. For the VARIAXIS i-600, it ensures the shortest possible machining cycle times, especially in fine increment programs for simultaneous 5-axis operations and free-form die-mold machining.
To reduce workpiece interference and further increase machining efficiency through the use of shorter tools, Mazak outfitted the VARIAXIS i-600 with a compact spindle cartridge for a shorter machine spindle nose. Mazak’s also offers its SuperFlow V8A 213-psi high-pressure coolant system option for efficient chip evacuation and a 120-tool chain magazine conveniently located at the operator’s side of the machine.
With an extremely fast tool change time, the machine’s automatic tool changer reduces chip-to-chip times down to only 3.4 seconds as it keeps the machine’s water-cooled CAT 40, 18,000-rpm, 30 hp (22 kW) spindle supplied with tools. Plus, automatic tool changing is possible while the machine’s A-axis is in any position.
The VARIAXIS i-600 accommodates workpieces up to 27.56” (700 mm) in diameter and 17.72” (450 mm) high. Such capacity is ideal for those complex components, such as impellers, requiring ample Y-axis and Z-axis machine strokes.
Mazak designed the VARIAXIS i-600 with an extended Y-axis stroke of 35.83” (910 mm) and X- and Z-axis strokes of 20.08” (510 mm), which together expand the machine’s working envelope capacity. Rapid feedrates of 2,362 ipm (60 m/min) in X and Y axes and a 2,205 ipm (56 m/min) rate in the Z axis, allow the machine to quickly maneuver around large complex workpieces for shorter overall cycle times.
For increased accuracy, the machine’s tilting/rotary table is supported at both ends and fitted to a highly rigid base without linear axis overhang and uses roller gear cams for the A- and C-axis drives. The A axis provides a -120 degree to +30 degree range of movement, and the C axis rotates +/- 360 degrees for highly efficient 5-axis machining.