Yamazaki Mazak Horizontal Machining Centers

Mazak HCN NEO

$300,000 - $550,000 Updated 2026-03-13

Key Specifications

Max Spindle

12,000-25,000 RPM (CAT 40); 8,000-16,000 RPM (CAT 50 on 6800)

Spindle Taper

BIG-PLUS CAT 40 (4000/5000); CAT 50 (6800)

Tool Capacity

40 tools standard (60, 80, 120, 240, 330 optional)

Rapid Traverse

60 m/min (2,362 ipm)

Spindle Power

18.5-42 kW (25-56 hp) depending on spindle option

travel x 4000

560 mm (22.0 in)

Overview

The Mazak HCN NEO series is the latest generation of the proven HCN horizontal machining center platform, available in three pallet sizes: HCN-4000 NEO (400mm), HCN-5000 NEO (500mm), and HCN-6800 NEO (630mm). The NEO designation signals updated energy efficiency, enhanced thermal management, and the latest SmoothG CNC control.

The HCN-5000 NEO, the most popular model, delivers 730 x 730 x 800 mm (28.7 x 28.7 x 31.5 in) travel on 500 x 500 mm pallets. Spindle options range from a 12,000 RPM base configuration up to 25,000 RPM, with the sweet spot being the 15,000 RPM high-torque spindle at 46 kW (62 hp) and 200 Nm. The HCN-6800 NEO steps up to CAT 50 tooling with 10,000 RPM and 350 Nm of torque for serious steel and cast iron work.

Rapid traverse across all models hits 60 m/min (2,362 ipm), keeping non-cutting time to a minimum. Two-pallet changers come standard, and the entire NEO lineup integrates with PALLETECH for full FMS-level automation. The NEO platform emphasizes reduced energy consumption through regenerative drives, LED lighting, and optimized hydraulic systems without sacrificing cutting performance.

New HCN NEO machines start around $300,000 for a base HCN-4000 NEO and run to $550,000+ for a fully loaded HCN-6800 NEO. The series competes directly with the Okuma MB-H II, DMG Mori NHX, and Makino a-series horizontals.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
Travel X 4000	560 mm (22.0 in)
Travel Y 4000	640 mm (25.2 in)
Travel Z 4000	640 mm (25.2 in)
Travel X 5000	730 mm (28.7 in)
Travel Y 5000	730 mm (28.7 in)
Travel Z 5000	800 mm (31.5 in)
Travel X 6800	1,050 mm (41.3 in)
Travel Y 6800	900 mm (35.4 in)
Travel Z 6800	980 mm (38.6 in)
Max Spindle Speed	12,000-25,000 RPM (CAT 40); 8,000-16,000 RPM (CAT 50 on 6800)
Spindle Taper	BIG-PLUS CAT 40 (4000/5000); CAT 50 (6800)
Spindle Motor Power	18.5-42 kW (25-56 hp) depending on spindle option
Spindle Torque	81.9-200 Nm (CAT 40); 221-1,413 Nm (CAT 50)
Pallet Size 4000	400 x 400 mm (15.7 x 15.7 in)
Pallet Size 5000	500 x 500 mm (19.7 x 19.7 in)
Pallet Size 6800	630 x 630 mm (24.8 x 24.8 in)
Rapid Traverse Rate	60 m/min (2,362 ipm)
Tool Capacity	40 tools standard (60, 80, 120, 240, 330 optional)
CNC Control	MAZATROL SmoothG CNC
Pallet Dimension	24.8" × 24.8"
X Axis Y Axis Z Axis Stroke	41.34" / 35.43" / 38.58"
Pallet Size	24.8" × 24.8"
Tool Shank	CAT No.50
Max Spindle Speed	10000 min-1(rpm)
Max Workpiece Size	Φ41.34" × 51.18"

Specifications sourced from mazak.com — verified 2026-03-28

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

Three pallet sizes (400, 500, 630mm) cover the full range of horizontal machining applications from small automotive parts to large cast iron components
NEO platform reduces energy consumption by up to 30% compared to previous HCN generation through regenerative drives and optimized hydraulics
Spindle lineup from 12,000 to 25,000 RPM on CAT 40 models gives shops flexibility to match spindle characteristics to their primary material mix
60 m/min rapid traverse across all axes keeps non-cutting time minimal during pallet changes and tool-to-tool movements
Full PALLETECH integration for scalable automation from 2-pallet standard up to 120+ pallet FMS configurations
SmoothG control with 19-inch touchscreen combines conversational MAZATROL programming with full G-code capability
HCN-6800 NEO with CAT 50 and up to 1,413 Nm high-torque spindle handles heavy ferrous machining that smaller HMCs cannot manage

Limitations

NEO models command a 10-15% price premium over outgoing HCN models, which may not be justified for all shops
MAZATROL control ecosystem locks shops into Mazak-specific training and post-processing with no Fanuc or Siemens options
HCN-4000 NEO and HCN-5000 NEO are CAT 40 only, limiting heavy-duty roughing compared to CAT 50 competitors
Standard 40-tool magazine is adequate for production but constraining for high-mix job shops

Best For

Automotive production shops running high-volume aluminum and cast iron components with PALLETECH automation Job shops upgrading from older HCN models wanting improved energy efficiency and the latest SmoothG control Aerospace tier suppliers machining structural components requiring high spindle speeds and deep tool magazine capacity Shops standardized on Mazak horizontals expanding their cell while maintaining operator consistency High-mix manufacturers running 24/7 unattended production cells where PALLETECH maximizes spindle utilization

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What is the difference between the HCN NEO and the standard HCN?

The NEO generation features reduced energy consumption through regenerative axis drives, optimized hydraulic systems, and LED lighting. It also gets the latest SmoothG CNC control with enhanced process monitoring. The core mechanical platform is largely similar, but the NEO adds improved thermal management for better sustained accuracy.

02 Which HCN NEO model should I buy?

The HCN-5000 NEO is the volume leader and best all-around choice. The HCN-4000 NEO fits shops running smaller parts. The HCN-6800 NEO with CAT 50 is for shops cutting predominantly steel, cast iron, or titanium needing more torque and a larger work envelope.

03 What does a new HCN NEO cost?

Base pricing starts around $300,000 for an HCN-4000 NEO. The popular HCN-5000 NEO with high-torque spindle runs $375,000 to $475,000. The HCN-6800 NEO with CAT 50 and full options can exceed $550,000. PALLETECH adds $150,000 to $400,000+.

04 Can I retrofit PALLETECH to an HCN NEO later?

Yes. The HCN NEO is designed for PALLETECH integration from the ground up. The pallet interface, control software hooks, and floor-level access are all pre-engineered for later addition.

05 How does the HCN-5000 NEO compare to the DMG Mori NHX 5000?

Both are excellent 500mm-class HMCs. The NHX 5000 offers CELOS control with Siemens or Heidenhain options. The HCN-5000 NEO counters with deeper PALLETECH automation, wider spindle range including 25,000 RPM, and extensive North American service network.