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How do you make a high-performance machine tool better? Jared Leick, product group manager with Mazak, says it is not just one thing. “We keep chipping away at everything that could be better about the machine,” he says, and the cumulative result is significant performance gain. This kind of improvement becomes more significant in a more automated machining environment in which users can see the cost and performance gains of a more optimized system.

Mazak is demonstrating its own next-level thinking about machine tool engineering in the Advanced Machining area of its booth, featuring two HCN Neo model horizontal machining centers — one standalone HCN-6800 Neo and one HCN-400 Neo in a Palletech flexible pallet system configuration — and the new Variaxis i600 Neo five-axis trunnion-style machining center. “Neo” is Mazak’s branding for more advanced machines with refinements for performance gain.

According to Leick, here are some of the improvements to be seen in the Neo machines:

1. Cell Controller Integration

Through software engineering, the PMC Neo cell controller governing the Palletech system now integrates far better with a shop’s ERP system. New sales for a manufacturer can now more seamlessly translate into scheduled machining work for the cell, Leick says.

2. Capacity for Unusual Tools

A new Tool Carry System allows long or large-diameter tools that do not fit the tool magazine to be stored and delivered via pallet change. The result is the capacity to keep running unattended with an even greater diversity of tools.

3. Faster Multi-Face Machining

A direct-drive table on the HMC means indexing the part or fixture from one face to another has less of an impact on cycle time. The table precisely pivots to the next position in little time.

4. Greater Dimensional Stability in Five Axes

Cooling the jacket of the trunnion on the five-axis machine has been augmented with now cooling the trunnion’s motor and lubricant as well, with the aim of holding accuracy even more constant than on previous machine designs.

5. Reduced Electrical Consumption

Power is another meaningful area of ongoing machine engineering, Leick says. More efficient accumulator-style hydraulics and an inverter-style chiller enable these elements to deliver consistent output without running at a consistent load, resulting in less electricity cost per part produced.