Mazak HCN-4000

The Mazak HCN-4000 is the smallest frame among the HCN horizontal machining centers: a 40-taper machine with 22 in (559 mm) of X travel and 25 in (635 mm) on both Y and Z. Mazak lists it with a 2 pallet changer and files it in the group of models whose pallets are 19.69 in × 19.69 in or less, so one pallet can be loaded at the setup station while the other is in the cut.

The spindle is CAT No.40 and runs to 12,000 rpm. Mazak rates it at 18.5 kW (25 HP) at 40% ED and 15 kW (20 HP) continuous, with 82 Nm (60 ft-lb) at 40% ED and 60 Nm (44 ft-lb) continuous. That torque sets the character of the machine. It suits aluminium, cast iron and lighter steel work with small and medium cutters far better than big face mills or large drills in steel. The series page names high-torque and high-speed spindles as options in the HCN line but gives no figures for them, so ask for the option data before judging the machine on the standard rating alone.

The magazine holds 40 tools. A tool can be Ø4 in (102 mm) with both neighbours in place or Ø7 in (178 mm) with the adjacent pockets empty, up to 17 in (432 mm) long and 26 lb (12 kg). Set that 17 in (432 mm) tool length against 25 in (635 mm) of Z: a long boring bar takes up most of the stroke before a part is on the pallet, so check reach on deep bores. The spindle centre sits between 3 in (76 mm) and 28 in (711 mm) from the pallet, which tells you how low on a tombstone the first row of parts can go.

All three axes rapid at 2,362 ipm (60 m/min). With the MAZATROL SmoothG control the machine takes 94 in (2,388 mm) × 215 in (5,461 mm) of floor, stands 107 in (2,718 mm) high and weighs 23,633 lb (10,720 kg). Mazak's table for this model states no pallet size, pallet load or maximum workpiece, so get those in writing before designing fixtures.