Mazak HCN-4000 NEO
Key Specifications
X Travel
Y Travel
Z Travel
Max Spindle
Spindle Taper
Tool Capacity
Overview
The Mazak HCN-4000 NEO is the latest generation of Mazak's compact 400mm horizontal machining center, upgrading the proven HCN-4000 III platform with the NEO designation that signifies enhanced digital connectivity, improved energy efficiency, and the latest MAZATROL SmoothAi CNC. The NEO generation maintains the same core mechanical platform while adding Mazak's latest smart manufacturing features.
The HCN-4000 NEO retains the 400 x 400 mm (15.7 x 15.7 in) pallet size and 560 x 560 x 560 mm (22 x 22 x 22 in) axis travels of its predecessor. The standard twin-pallet APC enables continuous production with one pallet cutting while the operator loads the other. Maximum workpiece size reaches 500 mm (19.7 in) diameter by 800 mm (31.5 in) height with 400 kg (882 lb) load capacity.
The 15,000 RPM HSK-A63 spindle delivers 22 kW (30 hp) with 120 Nm (89 ft-lb) of torque, handling both high-speed aluminum machining and production steel cutting. Rapid traverse reaches 60 m/min (2,362 ipm) across all axes for minimal non-cutting time. The standard 48-tool ATC expands to 160 tools for high-mix production.
The NEO-specific upgrades include MAZATROL SmoothAi with AI-based cutting condition optimization, Intelligent Thermal Shield for thermal compensation, and enhanced IoT connectivity for real-time machine monitoring. Energy consumption is reduced through on-demand hydraulic and cooling systems.
Competitors include the DMG Mori NHX 4000, Makino a40, Okuma MA-400HII, and Brother Speedio H450. New HCN-4000 NEO machines price between $500,000 and $750,000.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Pallet Size | 400 x 400 mm (15.7 x 15.7 in) |
| Number Of Pallets | 2 (standard, PALLETECH expandable) |
| X-Axis Travel | 560 mm (22.0 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 560 mm (22.0 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 560 mm (22.0 in) |
| B Axis Indexing | 1-degree increments (0.001-degree CNC optional) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 15,000 RPM |
| Spindle Taper | HSK-A63 |
| Spindle Motor Power | 22 kW (30 hp) at 25% ED |
| Spindle Torque | 120 Nm (89 ft-lb) at 25% ED |
| Max Workpiece Size | 500 mm dia x 800 mm H (19.7 x 31.5 in) |
| Max Workpiece Weight | 400 kg (882 lb) |
| Rapid Traverse Rate | 60 m/min (2,362 ipm) |
| Tool Capacity | 48 tools standard (80, 120, 160 optional) |
| Tool Change Time | 1.3 sec tool-to-tool |
| Machine Weight | 13,500 kg (29,762 lb) |
| CNC Control | MAZATROL SmoothAi CNC |
Specifications sourced from mazakusa.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- SmoothAi CNC with AI-based cutting optimization automatically adjusts feeds and speeds for improved surface quality and extended tool life
- Standard twin-pallet APC drives spindle utilization above 80%, dramatically outperforming single-setup VMCs in production environments
- 15,000 RPM HSK-A63 spindle balances high-speed aluminum capability with adequate torque for production steel cutting
- 60 m/min rapid traverse minimizes non-cutting time across programs with frequent tool changes and repositioning
- Intelligent Thermal Shield thermal compensation maintains tight tolerances through temperature fluctuations across shifts
- PALLETECH integration path enables scaling from 2-pallet to full FMS without changing the base machine
Limitations
- $500,000-$750,000 entry price is 2-3x the cost of comparable VMCs, requiring high-volume or complex multi-face work to justify
- 400 mm pallet limits maximum workpiece size compared to 500 mm and 630 mm horizontal machining centers
- 400 kg maximum workpiece weight restricts fixture complexity for heavier tombstone configurations
- HSK-A63 tooling investment is required for shops transitioning from CAT 40 or BT 40 systems
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
New HCN-4000 NEO machines range from $500,000 to $750,000 depending on ATC capacity, spindle options, probing, high-pressure coolant, and automation. PALLETECH integration adds $150,000-$400,000+ depending on system size.
02
The NEO generation upgrades the control to MAZATROL SmoothAi with AI-based optimization, adds Intelligent Thermal Shield for better thermal stability, improves energy efficiency through on-demand hydraulics, and enhances IoT connectivity for machine monitoring. The core mechanical platform remains largely the same.
03
Both are 400mm compact HMCs targeting similar production applications. The NHX 4000 offers CELOS control with Siemens or Heidenhain options. The HCN-4000 NEO counters with MAZATROL conversational programming, PALLETECH automation integration, and typically broader North American service coverage. Both are excellent machines -- the choice often comes down to control preference and service network proximity.
04
Yes. The twin-pallet APC provides basic unattended capability. Adding tool breakage detection, tool life management, and expanding the ATC extends unattended run time. PALLETECH integration enables full-shift lights-out operation with multi-pallet queuing and automated scheduling.
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