Machine Comparison
Makino a120nx vs Mazak FF-5000
Makino vs Yamazaki Mazak · Horizontal Machining Centers
Summary
The Makino a120nx and the Mazak FF-5000 are both horizontal machining centers, but they serve different jobs: the Makino a120nx is built for very large cast iron and steel components, while the Mazak FF-5000 series is a production machine for mass-production lines fed by loaders or robots. The makers publish few comparable figures for this pair, and the FF-5000 figures are series spans.
The Makino a120nx carries 204 tools against 20 tools, and its standard taper is CAT50, with HSK-A100 as an option. Its standard spindle runs to 8,000 rpm, below the FF-5000 span of 10,000 rpm to 12,000 rpm; a 20,000 rpm spindle is available on the Makino a120nx as an extra-cost option. The FF-5000 series is offered with CAT No.40, BT40 or CAT No.50 tapers.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Makino a120nx | Mazak FF-5000 |
|---|---|---|
| Max Spindle Speed | 8,000 rpm (Optional 20,000) | 10,000 rpm to 12,000 rpm |
| Spindle Taper / Nose | CAT50 (HSK-A100 optional) | CAT No.40 / BT40 / CAT No.50 |
| Tool Capacity | 204 ▲ | 20 tools |
Advantages
Makino a120nx
- 204 tools against 20 tools
- Optional 20,000 rpm spindle, at extra cost
- CAT50 taper as standard, with HSK-A100 as an option
Mazak FF-5000
- Standard spindle speeds of 10,000 rpm to 12,000 rpm across the series, against 8,000 rpm on the standard Makino spindle
- 40-taper versions (CAT No.40 or BT40) as well as CAT No.50
Verdict
Choose the Makino a120nx for large frames, housings, turbine casings and die sets that need many tools in one setup, where 204 tools and a CAT50 spindle suit large-part work. Choose the Mazak FF-5000 for mass-production lines in aluminum, iron and cast iron, where a 10,000 rpm to 12,000 rpm spindle and up to 20 tools per machine suit short drilling and tapping cycles.