Mazak Orbitec 20
Key Specifications
Max Spindle
Spindle Power
Max Turn Length
max turning diameter
spindle nose
bar capacity
Overview
The Mazak Orbitec 20 is a specialized CNC orbital turning center designed for non-round machining operations that conventional lathes cannot perform. Unlike standard turning centers that produce only round profiles, the Orbitec 20 uses a unique orbital tooling system to machine complex non-circular shapes including ovals, polygons, and eccentric profiles directly on the lathe.
The Orbitec 20 handles workpieces up to 200 mm (7.87 in) in diameter with a maximum turning length of 300 mm (11.8 in). The main spindle delivers 15 kW (20 hp) at speeds up to 4,000 RPM through an A2-6 nose. The orbital head operates independently, synchronizing with the main spindle to create non-round profiles through controlled tool path oscillation.
This machine fills a niche that most shops address with EDM, milling, or grinding. For parts like pump lobes, cam profiles, eccentric shafts, and polygon couplings, the Orbitec 20 can produce finished surfaces directly from bar stock in a single setup. The elimination of secondary operations on these specialized geometries is the primary justification for the machine.
The MAZATROL SmoothG CNC handles the complex synchronization between spindle rotation and orbital tool motion. Programming non-round profiles requires understanding the orbital geometry, but the conversational interface simplifies the process compared to manual G-code. The control supports both MAZATROL and EIA/ISO programming.
Competitors in the orbital turning space are limited, with Index and Traub offering similar technology on select platforms. New Orbitec 20 machines price between $200,000 and $300,000. The market for used units is thin due to low production volumes. Shops producing automotive cam components, hydraulic pump parts, and precision coupling elements find the strongest ROI from this specialized platform.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Max Turning Diameter | 200 mm (7.87 in) |
| Max Turning Length | 300 mm (11.8 in) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 4,000 RPM |
| Spindle Motor Power | 15 kW (20 hp) |
| Spindle Nose | A2-6 |
| Bar Capacity | 51 mm (2.0 in) |
| Orbital Head | Independent orbital tooling system |
| Turret Stations | 12-position |
| Rapid Traverse X | 30 m/min |
| Rapid Traverse Z | 30 m/min |
| CNC Control | MAZATROL SmoothG CNC |
| Non Round Capability | Ovals, polygons, eccentric profiles, cam shapes |
| Machine Weight | 4,500 kg (9,921 lb) approx. |
| Pallets Size | 24.8" × 24.8" |
| Tool Shank | CAPTO C8 |
| Max Spindle Speed | 600 min-1(rpm) |
Specifications sourced from mazak.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- Orbital turning produces non-round profiles like ovals, polygons, and cam shapes directly on the lathe, eliminating secondary EDM or milling operations
- Single-setup production of complex eccentric geometries reduces handling time, improves accuracy, and lowers per-part cost on specialized components
- Independent orbital head synchronizes with main spindle rotation for precise non-circular profile generation with excellent surface finish
- MAZATROL SmoothG handles complex orbital synchronization through conversational programming, reducing the steep learning curve of manual G-code for non-round machining
- 12-position turret handles conventional turning operations alongside orbital work, enabling complete part processing in one machine
Limitations
- Highly specialized platform with limited application outside non-round machining makes it difficult to justify unless the shop has consistent volume of these parts
- 200 mm max turning diameter limits the Orbitec 20 to small-to-medium components only
- Thin used market and limited competition mean fewer options for shops exploring orbital turning technology
- Programming non-round profiles requires specialized knowledge beyond standard turning, adding training requirements for operators
- Starting at $200,000 for a niche capability, the ROI calculation only works with sufficient volume of non-round parts
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
New Orbitec 20 machines price between $200,000 and $300,000 depending on configuration and tooling packages. The used market is thin due to low production volumes and specialized nature of the machine.
02
The Orbitec 20 produces ovals, polygons (hex, square, triangle), cam profiles, eccentric shapes, and other non-circular cross-sections. The orbital head synchronizes with spindle rotation to create these profiles through controlled tool path oscillation.
03
Standard turning produces only round profiles because the workpiece rotates against a stationary tool. Orbital turning adds a secondary oscillating motion to the tool that creates non-round shapes while the workpiece rotates. This eliminates the need for separate milling, EDM, or grinding operations on non-circular features.
04
Yes, the Orbitec 20 functions as a conventional turning center with its 12-position turret for standard OD turning, boring, drilling, and threading. The orbital capability is an addition to, not a replacement for, standard turning operations.
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