Machine Comparison
Mazak HCR vs Mazak VTC-5
Yamazaki Mazak vs Yamazaki Mazak · 5-Axis Machining Centers
Summary
The Mazak HCR and the Mazak VTC-5 are both 5-axis machining centers, but they serve different jobs. The HCR is a compact machine with 29 in (737 mm) of travel in X, Y and Z, while the VTC-5 is a long-bed machine with 118 in (2,997 mm) of X travel for long workpieces or rows of fixtured parts.
The HCR carries 40 tools against 30 tools to 36 tools across the VTC-5 models, rapids at 2,362 ipm (60 m/min) against 1,968 ipm (50 m/min), and has 29 in (737 mm) of Z travel against 28 in (711 mm). The VTC-5 has more Y travel, 32 in (813 mm) against 29 in (737 mm), and offers CAT No.40 or CAT No.50 spindles. Its spindle range of 10,000 rpm to 18,000 rpm spans the HCR's 12,000 rpm, so speed does not separate them.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Mazak HCR | Mazak VTC-5 |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 29 in (737 mm) | 118 in (2,997 mm) ▲ |
| Y-Axis Travel | 29 in (737 mm) | 32 in (813 mm) ▲ |
| Z-Axis Travel | 29 in (737 mm) ▲ | 28 in (711 mm) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 12,000 rpm | 10,000 rpm to 18,000 rpm |
| Spindle Taper / Nose | CAT No.40 | CAT No.40 / CAT No.50 |
| Tool Capacity | 40 tools | 30 tools to 36 tools |
| Rapid Traverse | 2,362 ipm (60 m/min) ▲ | 1,968 ipm (50 m/min) |
Advantages
Mazak HCR
- 40 tools against 30 tools to 36 tools across the VTC-5 models
- Faster rapids: 2,362 ipm (60 m/min) against 1,968 ipm (50 m/min)
- Slightly more Z travel, 29 in (737 mm) against 28 in (711 mm)
Mazak VTC-5
- 118 in (2,997 mm) of X travel against 29 in (737 mm), for long workpieces or several parts along the table
- 32 in (813 mm) of Y travel against 29 in (737 mm)
- CAT No.50 spindle available alongside CAT No.40, where the HCR lists CAT No.40 only
Verdict
These machines serve different jobs. Choose the Mazak VTC-5 for long workpieces, rows of fixtured parts or two-zone loading with the optional center partition, where 118 in (2,997 mm) of X travel matters and a CAT No.50 spindle suits larger cutters. Choose the Mazak HCR for complex 5-axis parts that fit within 29 in (737 mm) of travel, where 40 tools and 2,362 ipm (60 m/min) rapids keep cycles short. Spindle speed is not a deciding factor.