Mazak VTC-800/20HD
Key Specifications
X Travel
Y Travel
Max Spindle
Spindle Taper
Tool Capacity
Table Size
Overview
The Mazak VTC-800/20HD is the heavy-duty variant of the VTC-800 5-axis traveling column machining center, equipped with a CAT 50 (No. 50) spindle for maximum tool rigidity and cutting force. The 'HD' designation identifies this as the heavy-duty model, designed for aggressive material removal in steel, titanium, and cast iron where the lighter CAT 40 SR variant would be outmatched.
The VTC-800/20HD provides X-axis travel of 2,000 mm (78.7 in), Y-axis of 800 mm (31.5 in), and a B-axis that swivels through 220 degrees total (+/-110 degrees). The 2,000 mm X-stroke handles long structural parts, aerospace components, and energy-sector workpieces that require angular machining access. The B-axis tilting head enables 3+2 and simultaneous 5-axis machining from compound angles.
The CAT 50 spindle turns at 10,000 RPM with 35 kW (47 hp), delivering the torque needed for large face mills, heavy boring operations, and aggressive roughing in difficult materials. The traveling column design keeps the table fixed while the spindle head moves, eliminating dynamic workpiece loads. The fixed table measures approximately 2,500 x 820 mm (98.4 x 32.3 in) with substantial load capacity for heavy steel workpieces.
The MAZATROL SmoothAi CNC manages all five axes with AI-enhanced thermal compensation for consistent accuracy across the full travel range. B-axis positioning in 0.0001-degree increments enables precise angular approaches.
New VTC-800/20HD machines run $450,000-$600,000. The machine competes with the DMG Mori DMF 200, Okuma MU-10000H, and Starrag Heckert machines. For shops that need 5-axis angular access on long parts with heavy-duty cutting capability, the VTC-800/20HD combines traveling column convenience with BT 50 power.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 2,000 mm (78.7 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 800 mm (31.5 in) |
| B Axis Swivel | +/-110 degrees (220 total) |
| B Axis Indexing | 0.0001 degree increments |
| Max Spindle Speed | 10,000 RPM |
| Spindle Taper | CAT 50 (No. 50) |
| Spindle Motor Power | 35 kW (47 hp) |
| Tool Capacity | 30 (arm-type ATC); 60 optional |
| Table Size | Φ19.69″ |
| Max Table Load | 3,000 kg (6,614 lb) |
| Rapid Traverse Rate | 50 m/min (1,969 ipm) |
| CNC Control | MAZATROL SmoothAi CNC |
| Machine Type | Vertical traveling column, 5-axis |
| Guide Type | Linear roller guides (all axes) |
| Tool Shank | CAT No.40 |
| Max Spindle Speed | 18000 min-1(rpm) |
| Max Workpiece Size | Φ32.28″ × 145.28″ |
Specifications sourced from mazak.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- CAT 50 spindle with 35 kW provides the torque for aggressive roughing in steel, titanium, and cast iron with large-diameter tools
- 2,000 mm X-travel with B-axis tilting head enables 5-axis machining on long structural and aerospace parts
- 220-degree B-axis swivel provides extensive angular access to workpiece features from compound angles
- Fixed table eliminates dynamic workpiece loads, critical when machining heavy steel parts at compound angles
- SmoothAi CNC with AI thermal compensation maintains accuracy across long travel distances and extended run times
- 50 m/min rapid traverse minimizes positioning time on long X-axis moves between features
Limitations
- 10,000 RPM CAT 50 spindle limits high-speed aluminum finishing; the SR variant with 18K RPM CAT 40 is better for that
- Starting at $450K, the HD variant commands a significant premium over 3-axis VTC machines
- CAT 50 tooling costs more than CAT 40 across all tool categories
- Large footprint and heavy machine weight require substantial foundation and floor space planning
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
New VTC-800/20HD machines run $450,000-$600,000 depending on configuration. Options like through-spindle coolant, expanded 60-tool magazines, probing, and rotary table integration push toward the upper range.
02
HD (Heavy-Duty) uses a 10K RPM CAT 50 spindle for maximum cutting force in steel and titanium. SR (Speed/Racing) uses an 18K RPM CAT 40 spindle for high-speed aluminum and composite work. Choose HD for heavy materials, SR for speed-oriented work.
03
It supports both 3+2 positioning and full simultaneous 5-axis machining via the B-axis tilting head combined with X, Y, and Z linear axes. For full 5-axis with a rotary table (SD variant), that adds a fifth simultaneous axis on the workpiece side.
04
The /20 designation indicates 2,000 mm X-travel, while the /30 provides 3,000 mm. Choose the /20 for parts up to about 6 feet long where the shorter travel is sufficient. The /30 adds significant cost and footprint for the extra 1,000 mm of reach.
Videos
Cottrill & Co
