Decide Which 5-axis Or Multi-Tasking Machine Tool Is Best For You

We’re proud to offer the industry’s most advanced and comprehensive selection of 5-axis and Multi-Tasking machine configurations so that you can easily find a machine that will best meet your needs. When making a machine selection, it’s important to choose the right one. A good first step is to clearly identify the machine requirements most crucial to your operations by creating a thorough list that includes your business goals as well as the needs of the machinists who will work on the machine. Be sure to consider these key factors:

• How complex are the parts you are producing?
• Consider the size of your facility. Is workspace an issue?
• Are you looking to increase your part-processing versatility and shorten your cycle times?
• Do you need to keep milling and turning operations separate?
• Do you need to reduce part inaccuracies that result from moving parts across multiple workstations?
• Do you require periodic access to your workpiece?
• Are you producing large volumes of parts and require increased spindle utilization?
• Is completely automated manufacturing a goal for your business?

Once you answer these questions, consult our Four Quadrants 5-axis andMulti-Tasking Machine Tool Selection Guide. This guide will help direct you to the best platform to meet your complex part processing needs. It breaks down the characteristics of different machines into four quadrants that represent different levels of machining capabilities.

Quadrant 1
The first quadrant encompasses single-table 5-axis machines without turning capabilities. Machines that fit into this quadrant are ideal for manufacturers who need to process less complex part geometries. These machines offer larger machining zones than automated machines, which makes it easy to access parts, and they are the most affordable solutions within the four quadrants. An example of a machine in this category is the VORTEX i-800V/8S vertical machining center that features a tilting spindle for the 5-axis simultaneous machining of complex contours on large parts, such as jet engine casings, airframe components and gearboxes.

Quadrant 2
Quadrant 2 includes automated 5-axis machines without turning capabilities for processing less complex part geometries with the added bonus of unattended operations. Within this quadrant, you’ll find automated VORTEX and VARIAXIS 5-axis machining centers that enable you to perform high-volume production. The addition of a two-pallet changer or PALLETECH
System makes these machines great solutions for manufacturers who need to increase machine utilization through off-cycle part setup.

Quadrant 3
In Quadrant 3, you’ll find single-table 5-axis machines with turning capabilities that machine highly complex part geometries in a single setup. An example of a machine in Quadrant 3 is the INTEGREX e-1600V/10S Multi-Tasking machine which performs milling, turning, boring and drilling operations in single setups. This Multi-Tasking capability can help you reduce inaccuracies that occur when moving heavy parts across multiple workstations. Additionally, it eliminates work-in-process inventory and will boost your overall throughput.

Quadrant 4
Quadrant 4 also includes 5-axis machines with turning capabilities for processing more complex part geometries, but the machines in this quadrant are automated for unattended operations. Examples are automated INTEGREX and VARIAXIS machines. Because these machines offer the highest possible performance of all four quadrants, they require the most investment.

We know selecting a new machine tool of any level is a big investment, and we want to make sure the one you choose meets your current and future part-processing requirements as well as your overall business growth plan. To learn more, check out our Four Quadrants Machine Tool Selection Guide or contact your Mazak representative.

About Mazak Corporation
Mazak Corporation is a leader in the design and manufacture of productive machine tool solutions. Committed to being a partner to customers with innovative technology, its world-class facility in Florence, Kentucky, produces over 100 models of turning centers, Multi-Tasking machines and vertical machining centers, including 5- axis models. Continuously investing in manufacturing technology allows the Kentucky iSMART Factory to be the most advanced and efficient in the industry, providing high-quality and reliable products through its “Production-On-Demand” practice. Mazak maintains eight Technology Centers across North America to provide local hands-on applications, service and sales support to customers. For more information, visit www.mazakusa.com.