Mazak Mega Turn
Key Specifications
Max Spindle
Spindle Power
max turning diameter
max turning height
max workpiece weight
spindle torque
Overview
The Mazak Mega Turn is a vertical turning center (VTL) series built for shops machining large, heavy workpieces that are impractical to swing on horizontal lathes. The vertical spindle orientation uses gravity to seat heavy parts naturally on the chuck, simplifying loading and improving concentricity on large-diameter work without complex fixturing.
The Mega Turn lineup spans multiple sizes from the 500 through the 1600, covering turning diameters from 500 mm (19.7 in) up to 1,600 mm (63 in). Maximum workpiece weights range from 1,500 kg (3,307 lb) on smaller models to over 5,000 kg (11,023 lb) on the largest frames. The main drive delivers up to 37 kW (50 hp) depending on model, with spindle torque exceeding 4,000 Nm for aggressive roughing in cast iron and steel.
Mazak offers the Mega Turn in standard turning-only and M-series milling configurations. The M variants add a milling spindle for drilling, tapping, and contouring, reducing the need to move heavy workpieces to a separate machining center. This done-in-one capability is critical when handling multi-ton parts that require crane loading for every setup change.
The MAZATROL SmoothG CNC provides conversational programming that simplifies setup for complex contours on large parts. The control handles both MAZATROL conversational and EIA/ISO G-code, letting operators choose the fastest path for each job. Rapid traverse rates of 20-24 m/min keep non-cutting time reasonable despite the large axis travels.
Competitors include the Okuma V-series VTLs, DMG Mori CTV series, and Doosan Puma V-series. New Mega Turn machines price between $250,000 and $600,000 depending on size and configuration. Used units from 2012-2022 trade between $100,000 and $350,000. The Mega Turn excels in energy, aerospace, and heavy equipment applications where large-diameter turning is the primary operation.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Max Turning Diameter | 500-1,600 mm (19.7-63 in) depending on model |
| Max Turning Height | 500-1,000 mm (19.7-39.4 in) depending on model |
| Max Workpiece Weight | 1,500-5,000+ kg (3,307-11,023+ lb) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 800-1,250 RPM depending on model |
| Spindle Motor Power | 22-37 kW (30-50 hp) |
| Spindle Torque | 2,500-4,000+ Nm |
| Rapid Traverse X | 20-24 m/min |
| Rapid Traverse Z | 20-24 m/min |
| Turret Type | 12-station drum turret |
| Chuck Size | Φ49.21" to Φ59.06" |
| Machine Orientation | Vertical spindle |
| CNC Control | MAZATROL SmoothG CNC |
| Machine Weight | 8,000-18,000 kg depending on model |
| Milling Option | Available on M variants |
| Model | 1: Diameter |
| 500 500s 500m 500ms | Φ19.69" × H18.11" |
| 600 600s | Φ24.8" × H21.65" |
| 600m 600ms | Φ23.62" × H21.65" |
| 900 900s 900m 900ms | Φ36.22" × H31.5" |
| 1600 1600m | Φ64.96" × H35.43" |
| Max Machining Diameter | Φ64.96" |
| Max Machining Height | 35.43" |
Specifications sourced from mazak.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- Vertical spindle orientation uses gravity to seat heavy workpieces naturally on the chuck, simplifying loading and improving concentricity without complex fixturing
- Series spans 500mm to 1,600mm turning diameters, letting shops select the right frame size without switching platforms or controls
- M-series milling variants eliminate secondary operations on heavy parts that require crane loading for every setup change
- High spindle torque exceeding 4,000 Nm on larger models enables aggressive roughing in cast iron and steel with high material removal rates
- MAZATROL SmoothG conversational CNC simplifies programming for large complex contours and reduces setup time for operators
- Open-top design provides excellent crane access for loading and unloading heavy workpieces in production environments
- Proven platform with decades of production history in energy, aerospace, and heavy equipment manufacturing
Limitations
- Low spindle speeds (800-1,250 RPM max) limit the Mega Turn to large-diameter work and preclude small-diameter high-speed turning
- Vertical orientation requires overhead crane infrastructure for loading and unloading, adding facility requirements for shops without existing crane coverage
- Machine weights from 8,000 to 18,000 kg require substantial foundation preparation and limit placement flexibility within the shop
- Starting at $250,000, the Mega Turn represents a significant capital investment compared to horizontal lathes in the same swing range
- Rapid traverse speeds of 20-24 m/min are slower than horizontal lathes, though less impactful given the large parts and long cycle times
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
New Mega Turn machines range from $250,000 to $600,000 depending on model size and configuration. Smaller 500-series units start lower, while 1600-series machines with milling capability reach the top of the range. Used units from 2012-2022 trade between $100,000 and $350,000.
02
The Mega Turn series spans multiple frame sizes from the 500 through the 1600, covering turning diameters from 500 mm up to 1,600 mm. Each size is available in standard turning-only and M-series milling configurations.
03
Parts are loaded from above using an overhead crane, which is standard in shops machining heavy components. The vertical orientation works with gravity so the workpiece seats naturally into the chuck. For automated production, the Mega Turn can be integrated with gantry loaders or robotic systems.
04
Both are capable VTL platforms in their respective size ranges. The Mazak offers MAZATROL conversational control that many operators find easier to learn. The Okuma V-series counters with the Thermo-Friendly Concept for thermal stability and the OSP open-architecture control. Choice typically comes down to control preference and dealer support.
05
The Mega Turn excels at cast iron machining. High spindle torque and rigid vertical construction support aggressive roughing cuts. The vertical orientation also provides excellent chip evacuation since gravity pulls chips away from the cutting zone naturally.
Videos
Mazak North America
Yamazaki Mazak Corporation [English]
Mazak North America
Mazak North America
Mazak North America




