Mazak VC-Ez 16X

The Mazak VC-Ez 16X is a compact 5-axis machining center with 28 in (711 mm) of X travel and 16 in (406 mm) of both Y and Z. The B-axis ranges from -110° to +40° and the C-axis ±360°, on what Mazak describes for the VC-Ez X series as a roller gear trunnion and rotary table. The VC-Ez 20X is the step up, at 32 in (813 mm) of X and 20 in (508 mm) of Y and Z, with the same CAT No.40 taper, 12,000 rpm and 30 tools.

The spindle is a CAT No.40 unit turning at 12,000 rpm. Mazak's table gives one power figure, 19 kW (25 HP) on a 5 min rating, and no continuous rating or torque. A 5 min figure describes short bursts, so it should not be set beside the continuous ratings quoted for other machines, and the sustained power available for long roughing cuts is something to ask for.

For the series, Mazak describes Hybrid MX roller guideways on every linear axis and a pre-tensioned ballscrew system with support at both ends, and says the base, column, saddle and headstock castings were designed with high-speed and high-torque cutting applications in mind. A thermally controlled spindle and Thermal Shield technology deal with heat growth. On the control side the series lists MAZATROL Conversational Programming, QUICK MAZATROL and Intelligent Pocket Milling.

The table for this model is short. It gives no table size, table load, rapid rate, tool size limit or machine weight, all of which matter for fixturing and installation, so get those figures before committing a job. With 16 in (406 mm) of Y and Z, the usable envelope shrinks quickly once the table is tilted and a vise or fixture is in place.