Machine Comparison
Mazak MEGA Series vs Mazak MU Series
Yamazaki Mazak vs Yamazaki Mazak · Horizontal Machining Centers
Summary
The Mazak MEGA Series and Mazak MU Series are both from Yamazaki Mazak's horizontal machining centers lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the Yamazaki Mazak ecosystem. The Mazak MU Series leads in max spindle speed (15,000 RPM (20,000 RPM optional) vs 4,000 RPM). The Mazak MEGA Series leads in x travel (1,300 mm (51.2 in) vs 560 mm (22.0 in)). The Mazak MU Series leads in rapid traverse (60 m/min (2,362 ipm) vs 36 m/min (1,417 ipm)). On paper, the Mazak MEGA Series edges ahead with advantages in 10 of the compared specifications, though real-world performance depends heavily on your specific applications and workholding. Both machines are proven performers in production environments and represent solid investments for shops in the market for a horizontal machining center.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Mazak MEGA Series | Mazak MU Series |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 1,300 mm (51.2 in) ▲ | 560 mm (22.0 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 1,100 mm (43.3 in) ▲ | 560 mm (22.0 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 1,200 mm (47.2 in) ▲ | 630 mm (24.8 in) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 4,000 RPM | 15,000 RPM (20,000 RPM optional) ▲ |
| Spindle Power | 85 kW (114 hp) at 15% ED ▲ | 22 kW (30 hp) |
| Spindle Torque | 1,249 Nm (921 ft-lb) at 15% ED ▲ | 119 Nm (88 ft-lb) |
| Tool Capacity | 60 tools standard (up to 348 optional) ▲ | 40 tools standard (60, 80 optional) |
| Rapid Traverse | 36 m/min (1,417 ipm) | 60 m/min (2,362 ipm) ▲ |
| Control | MAZATROL SmoothG CNC | MAZATROL SmoothG CNC |
| Spindle Taper | CAT 50 | CAT 40 (BIG-PLUS) |
| Pallet Size | 800 x 800 mm (31.5 x 31.5 in) ▲ | 400 x 400 mm (15.7 x 15.7 in) |
| Max Workpiece Size | 1,450 mm dia x 1,450 mm H (57.1 x 57.1 in) ▲ | 630 mm dia x 800 mm H (24.8 x 31.5 in) |
| Tool Change Time | 5.5 sec chip-to-chip ▲ | 1.3 sec tool-to-tool |
| Machine Weight | 35,000 kg (77,162 lb) approx ▲ | 8,500 kg (18,739 lb) |
| Price Range | $800,000 - $1,200,000 | $225,000 - $350,000 ▲ |
Advantages
Mazak MEGA Series
- Greater x travel of 1,300 mm (51.2 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater y travel of 1,100 mm (43.3 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater z travel of 1,200 mm (47.2 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- More spindle power at 85 kW (114 hp) at 15% ED for aggressive material removal in harder materials
- Superior spindle torque at 1,249 Nm (921 ft-lb) at 15% ED vs 119 Nm (88 ft-lb)
Mazak MU Series
- Higher maximum spindle speed of 15,000 RPM (20,000 RPM optional) enables faster cutting on aluminum and non-ferrous materials
- Faster rapid traverse at 60 m/min (2,362 ipm) reduces non-cutting time between operations
- More competitive pricing at $225,000 - $350,000 compared to $800,000 - $1,200,000
Verdict
The Mazak MEGA Series holds a spec advantage in this comparison, but the right choice depends on your shop's priorities. If the Mazak MEGA Series's strengths in areas like X Travel and Y Travel align with your work, it's the clear pick. The Mazak MU Series may still win on dealer proximity, existing tooling compatibility, or specific features that matter most to your applications. Request quotes from both dealers and, if possible, run your actual parts on each machine before deciding.