Mazak North America Showroom

AMT Elects New Board Leadership, Honors Outgoing Members

Michael Cicco, president and CEO of FANUC America Corp., has been elected chairman of the board for AMT. Markus Stolmar, president and CEO of United Grinding North America Inc., joins as a newly elected board member.

Five-Axis CAM Strategies Cut Cycle Time for Two Shops

After being acquired by the same parent company, two shops found that working together and sharing knowledge improved both of their bottom lines.

Mazak Turning Machine Enables High-Volume Production of Small Parts

PMTS 2025: The Syncrex 38/9 Swiss-type turning machine features a nine-axis configuration that includes five spindle motors.

Mazak Event Targets Job Shop Production

The Discover More With Mazak event — which features live cutting demonstrations, automation technology and application displays — takes place from May 6-8, at the company’s Midwest Technology Center in Schaumburg, Ill.

OEMs Showcase Hybrid Manufacturing Applications

Mazak and Mastercam worked together to demonstrate the viability of hybrid additive/subtractive machining techniques at a recent event held in Florence, Kentucky.

JIMTOF 2024 Report: EVs, AI and Autonomous Robots Abound

The 2024 Japan International Machine Tool Fair (JIMTOF) showed how the manufacturing industry is adapting to the needs of electric vehicle manufacturing and adopting new technology including AI and autonomous robots.

Mazak Recognized for 50 Years of Manufacturing Innovation

Mazak’s facility in Florence, Kentucky, currently produces more than 70 machining solutions with a local workforce that exceeds 600 employees.

Navigating Large-Scale CNC Machining: Suburban Tool’s Niche Strategy to Stay Competitive

Facing increasing competition from lower-cost imports, Suburban Tool made a move toward large-scale, in-house machining. By identifying a niche in large, precision angle plates and tombstones, the company has strengthened its ability to control quality and protect its reputation.

Mazak Device Enhances Machine Connectivity, Security

SmartBox 2.0 integrates advanced communication protocols and edge computing for enhanced productivity and security, ensuring safe data export from machines to factory networks.

Mazak Multitasking Turning Centers Feature Stabilizing Control

Mazak’s HQR 200/3 NEO and HQR 250/3 NEO turning centers are equipped with Mazatrol SmoothG3 control technology for optimal stability and accuracy.

How to Meet Aerospace’s Material Challenges and More at IMTS

Succeeding in aerospace manufacturing requires high-performing processes paired with high-performance machine tools. IMTS can help you find both.

Mazak Custom Machining Solutions Feature Automation, Digitalization

IMTS 2024: Mazak features advanced machining solutions designed to boost productivity in automation, multitasking capabilities and machine tool technology.

Mazak Celebrates 50 Years of Manufacturing

Mazak is celebrating its 50th anniversary of manufacturing operations in Florence, Kentucky.

New Releases: Manufacturing Machines, Tools and Technology

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How Machining Makes AM Successful for Innovative 3D Manufacturing

Connections between metal 3D printing and CNC machining serve one Indiana manufacturer in many ways. One connection is customer conversations that resemble a machining job shop. Here is a look at a small company that has advanced quickly to become a thriving additive manufacturing part producer.

Mazak Partners With Cybersecurity Manufacturing Innovation Institute

The Cybersecurity Manufacturing Innovation Institute brings together manufacturers and research institutions to drive innovation in digital infrastructure and security for advanced manufacturing, supply chains and workforce development.

Shelton Machinery Launches TSM Group

Shelton Machinery, Concept Machinery and Municipal Machinery have partnered to form TSM Group, a new parent organization under which the three companies will now operate.

Additive/Subtractive Hybrid CNC Machine Tools Continue to Make Gains (Includes Video)

The hybrid machine tool is an idea that continues to advance. Two important developments of recent years expand the possibilities for this platform.

Mazak VMC Provides Versatile Machining of Complex Parts

The VC-Ez 20X vertical machining center features a 25-hp 12,000-rpm CAT-40 spindle with a 30-tool-magazine automatic tool changer.

Briquetting Manufacturer Tools Up for Faster Turnaround Times

To cut out laborious manual processes like hand-grinding, this briquette manufacturer revamped its machining and cutting tool arsenal for faster production.

Mazak Horizontal Turning Center Enables Versatile Machining

The QT-Ez 8MSY horizontal turning machine integrates seamlessly with bar feeders and robots, and accepts many additional options to tailor it to the needs of any shop.

3 Lessons Job Shops Can Learn From Laser Cutters

This laser-cutting “job shop” designs its processes to make high-mix, low volume work profitable.

Which Approach to Automation Fits Your CNC Machine Tool?

Choosing the right automation to pair with a CNC machine tool cell means weighing various factors, as this fabrication business has learned well.

Automation Plus Capabilities Beyond Machining Featured at Mazak Event

Friction stir welding is one example of a capability for emerging applications that changes the scope of the machine tool. Here are observations from Mazak’s Discover 2023 event.

Mazak MegaStir Becomes Exclusive Tooling Supplier for Meld Solid Deposition Technology

Mazak MegaStir will provide tooling specifically developed for the Meld process that incorporates the use of friction as part of its solid deposition process.

5 Tips for Running a Profitable Aerospace Shop

Aerospace machining is a demanding and competitive sector of manufacturing, but this shop demonstrates five ways to find aerospace success.

AMT Appoints Mazak President as Chairman of the Board

Dan Janka, an AMT member since 2005, last served as chairman in 2010.

Translating a Prototyping Mindset to Production

The experimental mindset that benefited BDE Manufacturing Technologies as a prototype job shop has given it an adaptable edge as a production facility.

Simulation and Tooling Secure High-Value Work

Simulation software and careful attention to tooling parameters have enabled Major Tool to take on ambitious projects with its complex machinery.

Mazak Expands Distribution Network With New Partnerships

Pioneer Machine Sales and longtime Mazak distributor A.W. Miller Technical Sales Inc. will expand the company’s territory.

Mazak Offers Horizontal Turning Center for Flexible Machining

The QT-Ez Series comes equiped with optional spindles, chuck sizes and tailstocks.

ESOP Solidifies Culture of Continuous Improvement

Astro Machine Works’ ESOP rewards all employees when the shop does well, inspiring many toward continuous improvement as Astro expands its capabilities.

Integration, Automation and Green Tech Highlight JIMTOF 2022

Known as one of the largest machine tool trade shows in the world, the Japan International Machine Tool Fair (JIMTOF) has a reputation for being a machining technology show more than a machine tool sales event. And this year’s show in Tokyo — the first in-person Japanese machine tool trade show in four years — did not disappoint.

Mazak Offers Horizontal Turning Machine With Multi-Tasking Features

Mazak’s QT-Ez 12MY uses a large A2-8 spindle nose with 3,300 rpm, 22 kW (30 hp) and 285 ft-lbs of torque, as well as a 3.0" (76 mm) bar capacity.

Shop Moves to Aerospace Machining With Help From ERP

Coastal Machine is an oil and gas shop that pivoted to aerospace manufacturing with the help of an ERP system that made the certification process simple.

Mazak Integrex i-100HS Multitasking Machine for Complex Part Applications

The Integrex i-100HS multitasking machine combines the abilities of a full-function machining center and a high-powered turning center to produce small- and medium-sized workpieces in single setups.

Mazak Adds New Syncrex Plant to Manufacturing Campus

The new facility combines engineering, production and applications support for the company’s recently launched Syncrex series of Swiss-style machine tools.

Veterans Play Key Role in Workforce Development at Mazak

Mazak currently employs a total of 87 veterans within departments ranging from field service and parts to production and purchasing.

Moving To Magnets Doubles Productivity

Moving from hydraulic to magnetic fixtures enabled this shop to reduce setup time, improve rigidity and eliminate manual operations. As a result, productivity doubled.

Formnext Chicago Secures Premier Exhibitors

The newly announced additive manufacturing show, Formnext Chicago, will take place at McCormick Place in spring 2025.

Mazak’s Brian Papke Receives M. Eugene Merchant Manufacturing Medal

The prestigious award recognizes exceptional individuals who have had significant influence and responsibility for improving the productivity and efficiency of manufacturing operations.

OEM Moves From Automation Implementation to Refinement

Automating challenging parts for full-weekend automation requires substantial process refinements that can significantly boost throughput.

IMTS 2022 Review: Attention to Automation Extends Beyond the Robot and the Machine

The advance toward increasingly automated machining can be seen in the ways tooling, workholding, gaging and integration all support unattended production. This is the area of innovation I found most compelling at the recent International Manufacturing Technology Show.

Top Shop Builds Upon Employee Ownership for Future Success

In its quest to become the Fox Valley’s best-in-class employer, A to Z Machine has adopted an ESOP, expanded benefits and invested in apprenticeships.

Mazak HR Director Named to Two Workforce Advisory Boards

Mazak HR Director William Weier was named to two northern Kentucky workforce advisory boards. In these roles, he assists with regional employment policies and aligns education to employer needs.

A Show That Bucks the Status Quo

IMTS 2022 - The International Manufacturing Technology Show will feature more than the latest metalworking technologies. It will provide a strong case to American manufacturers that now is the time to bring production back home to the United States.

Mazak's Syncrex Swiss-Style Lathe Provides Flexible, Versatile Operation

Mazak's Syncrex Swiss-Style series is designed for higher volume, small precision-machined parts.

Mazak Announces Key Distribution Changes

HEH Group subsidiary Motch & Eichele will provide sales and support for Mazak customers in Northern Ohio, while HEH Group subsidiary Crotts & Saunders will do so in the Carolinas, Southern West Virginia and Virginia.

A Career at the Top Helps Rebuild a Job Shop

A new approach to management propels expansion into Swiss-type and multitasking machining work.

Digitalization and Multitasking Accelerate Prototyping

Protolabs’ Mazak Integrex multitasking machines facilitate efficient automation of the prototyping company's high-mix, low-volume workload.

A New Player in the Swiss-Style Machine Market

Mazak has officially entered the Swiss-style market with its new line of Syncrex machines. Here’s what two of the company’s leaders had to say about the decision.

Mazak's Brian Papke Receives Al Moore Award

Throughout his career at Mazak, Papke has promoted, supported and expanded applications of machine tools and manufacturing technology.

The Culture Change of Large-Part Machining Automation

For Major Tool & Machine in its 75th anniversary year, confronting the skills gap involves a systemized approach focused on automation, and developing and retaining talent.

Mazak Launches New Line of Swiss-Type Machines

Mazak’s Syncrex models feature seven-, eight- and nine-axis configurations and are optimized for high-production of small parts. The machines accommodate a maximum of 35 tools.

Mazak Upgrades Vertical and Horizontal Machining Centers

According to Mazak, both the HCN-6800 NEO and the Variaxis i-800 NEO include a fully redesigned enclosure and improvements that enable fast, optimal solutions for a wide range of part-production applications.

Simulation Saves Money When Machining Expensive Parts

Jobs machining expensive materials mean Keselowski Advanced Manufacturing needs to be extremely cautious. The operations manager says Vericut not only prevents mistakes, it shortens cycle times.

Flexible Approaches to Gearcutting

Multitasking machine performs multiple gear-cutting processes without the need for a dedicated hobbing machine, providing high-mix gear producers with improved flexibility.

Mazak Appoints New Managers

Travis Kirby and Jesse Jones will ensure manufacturers receive applications and support to help their region keep pace with the industry’s surging production demands.

Meet the Automation That Makes Machine Tool Automation

A new manufacturing cell at Mazak’s North American headquarters is one part machine tool production unit and one part demonstration facility. And it’s here to provide a lesson about how automation can tackle skilled-worker shortages and supply chain issues at the same time.

The Case for Automatic Door Operation

Automatic door systems for stand-alone machine tools require periodic inspection and maintenance, but excel in environments with automation capability or frequent door use.

Mazak to Showcase Technology at PMTS 2021

Mazak will be exhibiting in Booth #3083 at 2021’s Precision Machining Technology Show (PMTS), highlighting its Ez Series.

Five Traits Define Top Performers in Five-Axis Machining

Benchmarking data reveal how elite manufacturers make the most of more axes of motion.

Shelton Machinery Owner Helps Finance School Engineering Lab

Nick Shelton, owner of Shelton Machinery, was named benefactor for new engineering lab at Cathedral High School after making a significant donation.

Let’s Finish Closing the Quoting Gap

Sharing accurate, timely and actionable data is the key to an effective, respectful relationship between a machining job shop and the subcontracting finishing shop. Software that streamlines the quoting process can make this happen.

Mazak VC-Ez 20 Provides Cost-Efficient Vertical Machining

Mazak’s VC-Ez 20 three-axis vertical machining center with onboard Mazatrol SmoothEz CNC offers an affordable, compact option for reliable, precise machining.

Mazak Takes Entry-Level Machine Tools to New Heights

A new machine series aims to address the immediate and longer term requirements of job shops by lowering cost barriers to acquiring manufacturing technology without foregoing capability or compromising performance.

Mazak Showcases Production Line with Virtual Campus Tour

Mazak Corporation has launched a 360-degree virtual tour allowing manufacturers to examine its production line and facilities from anywhere in the world.

Simulation Gets Real

Capability to generate something close to a true digital twin can significantly improve confidence in CAM program prove-outs.

Online Conference Provides Hands-On Experience With Machines

Mazak’s All-Axes Live teleconference provides shop owners with the opportunity to have as close to a hands-on experience as social distancing will allow.

When Machining Lights Out Leaves Nothing Out

A Top Shops honors program winner strives to ensure every part crosses paths with a robot, cobot or pallet changer.

Mazak Opens Expanded Spindle Rebuild Facility

The expanded department will keep upwards of 1,000 rebuilt spindles in stock and ready for exchange.

Standardizing on the Mazak Brand Eases Shop’s Training Process

Choosing a single brand of machine tools enables Ketchie Inc.’s operators to be self-sufficient. They can quickly learn to set up and program virtually any machine in the shop.

An Unusual Machine for an Unusual Time: Mazak Helps AquiSense Fight COVID-19 with PearlSurface

When a company that specializes in rendering viruses and pathogens harmless via UV light looked to produce a portable disinfection device, it turned to its neighbor Mazak to move from design into production.

Esprit CAM Software Integrates with Mazak's Smooth AI CNC

This development is an outgrowth of a collaborative partnership between DP Technology and Mazak Japan.

Mazak’s FJV-35/80 VMC Offers High Precision for Large Workpieces

Mazak’s FJV-35/80 double-column VMC is designed to provide high precision over extended periods of operation with intelligent CNC functions and rigid construction.

The Manifold Benefits of Standardization

By locking in on manifolds, investing in one HMC model and developing custom software used on iPads in every department, this shop has set itself up for continuous improvement and its new employees up for success.

Multitasking Forms Hub of Shop’s Propeller Production Efficiency

Outsourcing machining for complex hub assemblies resulted in months-long lead times and lack of control. A Mazak multitasking machine allowed Whirlwind Propellers to bring production in house.

Mazak's Mega Turn 900M VTL Handles Large Cast Iron, Steel Workpieces

Mazak’s Mega Turn 900M vertical turning center is designed to combine turning and secondary machining operations for efficient processing of large cast iron and steel workpieces.

Discovering New Machining Technology at Mazak

A recent event at the company’s North American campus attended by more than 2,000 manufacturing professionals highlighted a wealth of new CNC machining technology.

Mazak Offers Quick Turn 200/250 Turning Centers with Gantry Robot

Mazak offers the Quick Turn 200/250 series of multitasking turning centers configured with a GR100 gantry robot for “done in one” part processing and fully automated loading/unloading.

Precision CNC Supercharger Rotor Machining Means More Power

By developing a more accurate machining process for mating helical rotors, this company’s superchargers can more efficiently force air into an engine for higher horsepower gains.

5 Impressions of EMO 2019, from Automated to Autonomous Manufacturing

The robot show? Not quite that. But automation and the expectation of processes that can run unattended if needed are clearly core to manufacturing now.

Mazak's VTC-300C FSW Joins, Machines Alloys with Low Melting Points

A part of Mazak’s family of hybrid multitasking machining centers, the VTC-300C FSW combines milling capabilities with friction stir welding (FSW).

News of Note: August 2019

A market development agreement on a new finishing process, a conference on quick-response manufacturing, new robotics training centers in the United States, and other industry news.

Mazak's VTC-300 FSW Hybrid Applies Friction Stir Welding

Westec 2019: Mazak’s VTC-300 FSW Hybrid multitasking vertical machining center features friction stir welding (FSW) capabilities.

Climbing the Levels of Multi-Tasking Machining

The “done-in-one” concept is easier than ever to accomplish with turning and machining centers that can finish complicated parts in a single setup. Mazak helps explain which level of Multi-Tasking is right for your parts.

Artificial Femur Demonstrates Multitasking Machining

A part showcased at a recent industry event is based on a 3D scan of a real bone.

May 2019 Product Spotlight: Machining Centers

This month’s Modern Equipment Review Spotlight focuses on machining centers of varying capacities and configurations.

Using AI to Predict CNC Machine Spindle Issues Before They Are Issues

A machine tool builder is using artificial intelligence technology to predict when a spindle problem might occur, so shops can better prepare for and schedule necessary maintenance.

From-Scratch CNC Post Processor Lets Dual-Toolhead Mill-Turn Shine

A dual-toolhead multitasking machine made coordination of tool paths difficult, if not impossible. A new post processor for use with Mastercam Mill-Turn resulted in smooth programming of tight-tolerance tool paths using both toolheads.

Manufacturing News of Note: March 2019

Orbex contains largest single-piece rocket engine to be made with additive manufacturing, Absolute Machine Tools is owned by the employees, and other industry news.

Industry News of Note: February 2019

Additive Manufacturing Conference issues call for speakers, Mazak makes big “smart factory” investment and other manufacturing industry news.

Machine Shop Finds Opportunities with SLA 3D Printer

Adding a Form 2 desktop stereolithography 3D printer from Formlabs has enabled A&M Tool and Design to expedite workflows with 3D-printed prototypes, tooling and more.

Multitasking CNC Machines Cut Down on Work in Process

This pump manufacturer has integrated flexible multitasking machines and automation to maintain high production levels and flexibility.

How Mazak's Multitasking Machine Uses Welding for Additive Manufacturing

Mazak’s VC-500A/5X AM HWD multitasking machine incorporates a “hot wire” additive manufacturing technology that applies sealing coatings or produces near-net shape part features while the workpiece has been mounted for machining.

The HYBRID Additive Manufacturing and Multi-Tasking Machining Revolution is Here

It’s not just about additive vs. subtractive manufacturing anymore. A new class of machine tool combines multitasking machining with laser metal deposition as well as welding processes and gear cutting too.

Five-Axis Hybrid Machine Applies Hot Wire AM Technique

Mazak Corp.’s VC-500A/5X AM HWD multitasking machine reduces lead times and part costs, increases machining accuracy and part quality, and improves productivity, according to the company.

Mazak Announces Start of Operations at New Japanese Plant

The company celebrated the completion of the initial construction phase of its sixth Japanese facility and 11th worldwide with an open house event attended by customers and distributors from across Japan.

Using Data to Do Better in Manufacturing

Although the Smart Manufacturing Experience 2018 event in Boston may not have provided a simple, clear definition of “smart manufacturing,” it did provide a broad experience of what smart manufacturing can be like.

May 2018 Product Spotlight: Machining Centers

This month’s Modern Equipment Review Spotlight focuses on a variety of vertical, horizontal and five-axis machining centers, some with dual spindles.

Manufacturing Panelists Agree: The Industry Is Booming

At the Ohio Manufacturing Summit, four panelists fielded a variety of questions. Each found good reason for manufacturing optimism.

Five-Axis HMC Mills Aluminum for Aerospace, Superconductors

Mazak’s HCR-5000S five-axis, single-table HMC is designed for efficient small- to mid-sized aluminum component processing.

Compact Automation System Designed for Large-Part HMC

The HCN-5000 horizontal machine center (HMC) from Mazak is now available with the company’s Multi-Pallet Pool (MPP) system.

Machine Monitoring Enhances Human Resource Functions

Decisions about manufacturing processes are not the only business factors that can be improved by the insights derived from data collected by a machine-monitoring system. For this shop, using this information to strengthen and fine-tune its employee incentive program is a significant benefit, among many others.

Machining Centers Help Shops Increase Output, Reduce Inspection Times

Mazak machining centers reduced an Iowa shop’s setup and inspection times, enabling it to win an aerospace contract.

Five-Axis Machine Center Designed for Small Workpieces

Mazak has released the Ultimate Die & Mold (UD) 400/5X vertical machining center, which provides precise five-axis machining for smaller workpieces.

Hybrid Additive/Subtractive VMC Offers Five-Axis Motion

The hybrid multitasking machine combines laser metal deposition with five-axis machining.

Five-Axis VMC's AWC Enables Continuous, Unattended Operation

Mazak’s Variaxis i-300 simultaneous five-axis VMC includes a a high-capacity auto work changer (AWC) for flexibility and efficiency.

With Face Drivers, Shop Faces Long Cycle Times Head On

By switching from jaw chucks to face drivers, a manufacturer of large shaft components was able to reduce the number of setups, cutting cycle times on some parts from days to hours.

Hybrid Five-Axis Machine Builds Near-Net Shape Part Features

Smart Manufacturing Experience 2018: Mazak will exhibit its various Smooth Technology products in addition to live cutting demonstrations on its VC-500 AM and small-footprint Integrex i-100 Bartac-S machine tools.

Mazak Appoints General Manager to Northeast Region

Jim Rutan is tasked with managing Mazak’s sales and applications team in a booming region.

Turning Center Marketed to Precision Racing Industry

Mazak’s Quick Turn 200 is a two-axis turning center designed to efficiently process a range of part sizes and deliver high speed, performance and precision.

Establishing an Effective Hard-Turning Process

In devising its hard-turning strategy, this die/mold shop has been able to speed the production of its new deep-draw round tooling offerings by turning them instead of grinding them after heat treating.

Multitasking Machines Perform Gear Work, Traditional Machining

Gear Expo 2017: Mazak will demonstrate its multitasking equipped with the latest Mazatrol Smooth CNC and Mazak Smooth Gear Cutting Solutions for making precision gears of all shapes and sizes.

Multitasking Turning Center Offers 18" Chuck, Heavy-Duty Machining

Mazak’s QTN 450M turning center with multitasking “Done In One” capabilities is said to boost productivity and reduce cycle times for large-diameter, shaft-type part manufacturing in industries such as oil and gas.

Hybrid Vertical Machining Center Integrates Wire-Arc Technology

Hybrid combines five-axis subtractive capabilities with arc-welding head.

Five-Axis Machine for Small, Complex Parts

Mazak’s VC-500A/5X vertical machining center features a trunnion-style rotary/tilt table for precise, cost-effective five-axis machining of intricate work and a Mazatrol SmoothX CNC for easier programming and faster part cycle times.

What’s Behind Door Number Three?

While most shops are producing shorter aerospace parts on five-axis machines or larger parts on gantry-type equipment, this shop found its niche somewhere in the middle thanks to an advanced profiling machining system from Mazak.

Machining Centers Designed for Productivity, Reliability for Automotive

Mazak introduces the UN series of high-speed vertical and horizontal machining centers with the UN-600/30V, a VMC, and the UN-600/30H, an HMC.

JIMTOF 2016 Report: Exhibitors Show a Strong Embrace of IIoT

The recent Japan International Machine Tool Fair reflects the rapid move toward smart factories in which smart machines are fully networked.

Precision Profiler Opens Chances for Larger Aerospace Parts

Fort Walton Machining could only process smaller aerospace parts without investing in large, expensive-to-operate equipment. Mazak's Vortex 160 horizontal profiler increased the shop's part size capabilities.

Turning Center Features Direct-Drive Milling Spindle

Mazak’s Quick Turn-250MSY turning center offers several productivity-enhancing features including a direct-drive turret design, a higher-torque main spindle, a faster, more powerful milling spindle, and the Mazatrol SmoothG CNC.

JIMTOF: A Strong Embrace of IIoT

The recent Japan International Machine Tool Fair reflects the rapid move toward smart factories in which smart machines are fully networked. Japanese providers of manufacturing technology have clearly embraced the concepts of the Industrial Internet of Things.

HMC’s Control Enables High-Precision Honing, Orbital Turning

Mazak’s HCN-4000 automated, multitasking HMC features high-precision honing and orbital machining capabilities as well as Done-in-One processing, designed for producing pump and valve-type components.

When a Turn-Mill Doesn’t Turn

LeanWerks uses innovative probing, tooling and workholding strategies to enable its turn-mill to machine castings complete, in effect turning it into a five-axis machining center.

Five-Axis Machine Produces Medical Parts without Wasted Capabilities

.decimal Inc. needed to efficiently manufacture medical devices. Mazak's VCU 400A 5X machines met the company's need to precisely and reliably make devices quickly.

Mazak SmartBox at Cisco Live

Later this month, Mazak Corp. will present the next phases of its Mazak SmartBox at Cisco System Inc.'s Cisco Live event in Las Vegas. In addition, notable organizational changes in the top management positions at Mazak will be apparent.

NTMA Members Share after Japan Manufacturing Tour

U.S. shop owners and managers comment on the plants they visited, automation and culture, and the value of getting to see manufacturers far away in the company of other shop leaders.

Tool Magazine Stores 206 Large-Diameter Tools

Mazak’s compact Tooltech tool magazine is designed to store big, heavy and large-diameter tools in a small space on the shop floor.

Closed-Loop Gear Production

A familiar concept is now gaining serious traction, enabling manufacturers to develop closed-loop cells that automatically match the finished product to design concept goals.

Will Additive Manufacturing Subtract from Machining?

A panel discussion captured on video addresses this question.

March 2016 Product Spotlight Slideshow: Machining Centers

This month’s Modern Equipment Review Spotlight focuses on horizontal, vertical and five-axis machining centers.

Mazak to Build New Plant in Japan

The new plant in Inabe City will gradually replace operations in the current Mie Prefecture plant.

Inside Gear Expo 2015

Billed as “The Drive Technology Show,” this year’s event featured new machine designs and cutting tools, heat-treat processes, and materials and hardening processes for hybrid transmission applications.

December 2015 Product Spotlight Slideshow: Machining Centers

This month’s Modern Equipment Review Spotlight focuses on machining centers.

Increasing Production with Fewer Machines

Hanna Cylinders needed to shorten production lead times and speed deliveries. Replacing several of its legacy machines with Mazak machine tools helped to increase jobs shipped per month and brought production in-house, even with fewer overall machines.

What's So Smart about the Mazak SmartBox?

The Mazak SmartBox was showcased at this machine tool builder's Discover 2015 event. The company wants it to be the smartest (and securest) way to connect machine tools to the Industrial Internet of Things.

Punching Above Your Weight

A multitasking machine enabled this small shop to bid competitively against larger operations by eliminating setups and reducing cycle times, but it first had to learn what jobs work best using turn-mill equipment.

Cutting Gears with Multitasking Machines

Multitasking machines provide an excellent point of entry for machine shops interested in adding gear manufacturing to their list of capabilities, including power skiving.

Drawing Millennials to Manufacturing

The best endorsement for choosing advanced manufacturing as a career path may well come from those who have already entered the field and are now reaping the rewards.

Multitasking Levels, MTConnect and Additive Mrf. Part of Tech Center Event

A recent open house at Mazak’s Chicago-area facility included not just various machines but also various ideas for thinking differently about machining.

Big Multifunction Machines for Big Castings

Turn-mill technology enables this company to minimize lead times and handling for its large machined castings.

Big Screens—Big Results

This machine tool builder is getting the most from its machine monitoring system. Making data about machine utilization very visible is helping operators make better decisions about shopfloor activities.

VMC Enables Unattended Operations

Mazak’s Variaxis i-700 vertical machining center accurately processes long parts as well as those with complex profiled surfaces in single setups.

A Vision of the Data-Driven Factory

The Mazak iSmart Factory concept focuses on digital integration to achieve free-flow data sharing for process control and operation monitoring. This machine tool builder is implementing this vision in its factories now.

Smooth Technology Is New Concept for CNC

Smooth Technology is the umbrella term Mazak (Florence, Kentucky) is using to describe its new concept for the programming and control of complex, multi-axis machine tools.

Multitasking Five-Axis Machining Center for Large Gears

Mazak's Integrex e-1550V/10 multitasking five-axis machining center suits the production of large gears.

Manufacturing Cell Enables Large-Part Production

A "done-in-one" manufacturing cell for large part production consisting of an Orbitec 20 machine, an Integrex multitasking machine and a Palletech automation system is now available from Mazak.

Surprises from Machine Monitoring

When Mazak implemented an MTConnect-enabled machine monitoring system at its machine-tool factory in Florence, Kentucky, the data yielded some surprising results when analyzed. Read about what was discovered here.

Automated HMC Cell Powers Rod Production Flexibility

To quickly change rod connector types, automotive manufacturer Metaldyne installed a fully automated HMC cell of standalone Mazak HMCs and a FANUC robot.

Multitasking Machine Processes Large Shaft-Type Workpieces

Mazak’s Integrex e-420H II multitasking machine offers high-powered turning and full-function machining capabilities suitable for a range of industries, including construction machinery, marine and energy.

CNC Lathe Turns Long-Shaft Workpieces

Mazak’s heavy-duty Slant Turn Nexus 550 turning center is capable of turning large workpieces such as oilfield pipes, pipeline control valves and power-generating components for the aerospace, oil and gas, coal, and nuclear industries.

Discover More—And I Did

The time I spent at the Discover More with Mazak Midwest event in Schaumburg, Ill. was designed to help attendees discover new tools and techniques for staying ahead of the manufacturing curve. Here are four good ideas that caught my attention.

Data-Driven Manufacturing Moves Ahead at Mazak

“We thought we knew what our utilization was, but now we know for sure.

March 2014 Product Spotlight: Machining Centers

This slideshow features the machining centers we cover in the Modern Equipment Review Spotlight section in our March issue.

VMC Enables Simultaneous Five-Axis Capabilities

Designed for use in the aerospace industry, Mazak’s Variaxis j-500 5X vertical machining center offers simultaneous five-axis and multitasking capabilities.

Multitasking Turning Center Enables Done-in-One Operations

Mazak’s Quick Turn Nexus 250-II multitasking turning center features milling, Y-axis capability, and main and second spindles for done-in-one operations on medium- and large-sized components.

VMC Efficiently Processes Long Workpieces

Mazak’s Variaxis i-700 is designed to efficiently process long workpieces and those requiring precision-machined, complex curved surfaces in single setups.

Multitasking Vertical Turning Center for Heavy-Duty Machining

Mazak’s Megaturn Nexus 900M combines turning and secondary machining operations to efficiently cut large cast iron and steel workpieces such as those used in jet engine manufacturing, and construction and industrial machinery.

Mazak Invests in Production Capacity, Future Workforce

Next year, Mazak will celebrate 40 years of manufacturing in Kentucky. In time for that anniversary, the company will complete the latest expansion of its Kentucky manufacturing facilities—an expansion that is currently underway, and that aims at increasing the production capacity at this site from 140 machines per month to as many as 200.

Multitasking Turning Center for Medium, Large Gears

Mazak’s Quick Turn Nexus 250-II MSY multitasking turning center is said to handle virtually all gear production processes from raw material input through final machining.

Compact Multitasking Machine for Done-in-One Processing

Mazak’s Integrex i-200S multitasking machine is designed to efficiently and accurately process mid-size complex components from raw material to finished workpieces in single setups.

Mazak Implements MTConnect Factory-Wide

Mazak’s Florence, Kentucky machine tool plant will use the MTConnect open communications protocol for equipment monitoring and other applications.

Use the Machine Tool to Machine Tools

This shop has developed various time-saving tool components by creating them internally, including one tooling solution now being used by other shops as well.

Taking on Bigger, More Complex Work with Multitasking Machines

Using multitasking machines, Hartman Enterprises was able to increase its part-processing capabilities by taking on more jobs involving larger sized multitasking work.

Mazak’s Midwest Event Focuses on Multitasking

Mazak has been presenting a series of “Discover More With Mazak” customer events at its tech centers in select locations around the country. I attended the one in Schaumburg, Illinois (Chicago area). Here’s what I found.

Mazak Discover More Midwest Event

The “Discover More With Mazak” Midwest event included demos in the Schaumburg tech center’s spacious showroom.

The Five Levels of Multitasking

When it comes to multitasking equipment, one size by no means fits all. Mazak helps shops sort it out in their Multitasking Knowledge Center here on MMS Online.

Taking the Long View on Short Runs

Certain jobs require a processing strategy that strikes a balance between the needs of high-volume production and low-quantity toolroom work. Reorganizing material flows and investing in machining centers designed specifically for small lots helped this manufacturer find that middle ground.

HMC for Machining Inconel and Titanium

The rigid Mega-8800 HMC from Mazak is designed to efficiently machine tough materials such as Inconel and titanium.

What JIMTOF Had to Show Us

We present here some of the interesting and visually appealing snapshots from JIMTOF 2012.

HMC for Heavy-Duty Machining of Tough Materials

The MEGA-8800 HMC from Mazak is designed for heavy-duty machining of tough materials such as Inconel and titanium.

Moving in with a Customer

Shop owner Chris Nachtmann has established a close relationship with one of his biggest customers. In fact, he moved his operation inside that customer’s facility a couple years ago. Now, he’s making greater strides to invest in and grow his business.

Tooling, Technical Support Boost Machining Capacity

Technology and application support from cutting tool supplier Seco Tools has played a key role in various process improvements at this manufacturer of transmission and torque converter components.

Simultaneous Five-Axis Design Efficiently Machines Multiple Workpiece Surfaces

Mazak offers its versatile Variaxis i-800 machining center with full, simultaneous five-axis capabilities.

Making the Move to Multitasking

Implementing a done-in-one approach to production has to be managed carefully. This shop seems to have made all the right moves in what has turned out to be a truly transformative experience.

Mazak Showcases Kentucky Machines for Global Export

The United States is a great place to design and build world-class machine tools. That’s one of the messages Mazak Corp. hopes visitors to its Booth S-8300 will take home with them.

Does This School Have the Formula for Mfg Education?

A high school in Wisconsin runs its manufacturing vocational program as a business. Students make parts for paying customers. The program is thriving, cash flow is strong, and local manufacturers can now hire recent graduates who already have experience in meeting customer demands.

Mazak Expands Midwest Technology Center

Learn about the machine tool builder’s expanded facility in Schaumburg, Illinois.

Multitasking VMC Processes Long Workpieces in Single Setup

The Variaxis i-700 from Mazak is a simultaneous five-axis, multitasking VMC.

Multitasking Machine Combines Versatility and Accuracy

Designed for complex, mid-sized components, the Mazak Integrex i-200ST multitasking machine features a compact design, twin spindles, a lower turret and milling spindle for done-in-one productivity.

Quick-Change Chucks Offer More than Fast Jaw Changes

For this shop, eliminating the need for reboring is the most important benefit of QJR quick-change chucks from Kitagawa-Northtech.

Space-Saving VMC Efficiently Machines Complex Medical Parts

The Mazak Vertical Center Nexus Compact is a space-saving, high-speed, VMC designed for small, complex medical parts.

Quick-Change Chucks Boost Turn-Mill Benefits

At this Chicago-area manufacturer, quick-change chucks from Kitagawa added to the benefits of moving from multiple setups on multiple machines to producing parts in a single setup on Mazak turn-mills.

Why Mazak Supports MTConnect

Mazak has taken a lead in implementing and supporting MTConnect, the standardized communication protocol for machine tools and other production equipment. An exclusive interview with Mazak President Brian Papke reveals the company’s thinking behind this stance.

An MTConnect Q&A With Brian Papke, President of Mazak

Mazak has taken strides to support MTConnect. I spoke with Brian Papke, president of Mazak, to find out why.

Snapshots from Mazak’s T3 Event

Mazak’s recent “Tomorrow’s Technology Today” event in Florence, Kentucky showcased a broad range of new machine models, as well as machining processes engineered around challenging parts.

Industry Marks Passing of Mr. Teruyuki Yamazaki

Teruyuki Yamazaki, son of Yamazaki Mazak Corp. founder, was considered an industry leader and visionary. Mr. Yamazaki passed away September 15 at the age of 82.

The Need to Know Is Basic

An MTConnect-enabled monitoring system gives this shop a clear and simple picture of machine tool usage.

Automated Production on HMCs Requires Automated Gaging

An innovative approach to automated gaging helps deal with a fundamental challenge inherent to a flexible, multi-machine environment: Many machines with many operations multiply the chances for error.

Multitasking Machine Features Boring Capabilities

The Quick Turn Nexus 450-II MY is the largest of the company’s Nexus series of turning and multitasking machines developed for the oil and gas services and construction machinery industries.

The First One

This editor’s first article for 91��Ƶ��վ�� about machine rebuilds still has legs.

Valve Machining Video…Finally

Check out video of this interesting valve production machine.

The Real Starting Line

Die-hard NASCAR fans seem to know all there is to know about the sport. But do they know where the race actually begins?

Valve Production Machine with 20-inch Turning Capability

Mazak offers its Orbitec 20 for manufacturers of valves and similar large components.

Mazak “Re-Ups” in the Southwest

The machine tool builder, located in Houston for 30 years, has opened a new, larger Southwest Technology Center to reaffirm its commitment to that area’s machining businesses.

Going Lean in Order to Grow

This shop has a plan for dramatically expanding its contract machining business in high-value markets.

Multitasking is Multiple Choice

Different levels of multitasking machine tools address different types of parts.

Multitasking Calculator

Does it make sense to replace a series of separate machine tools with a single multitasking machine that performs turning, milling and drilling all in one cycle?

Making Customers the Focus of Customer Events

The format and focus of Mazak’s “Discover” series of events exemplifies how supplier-customer relationships have evolved over the years.

Disaster in Japan: A Spirit of Generosity Will Prevail

Despite last week’s horrendous disaster, Japan will carry on.

How Center Rock Sees Setups

The company that made the rock drills used to free the Chilean miners last year is exploring the right level of multitask machining.

High-Volume Part Production

Designed for high-volume production of small parts, the Hyper Quadrex 200MSY includes twin opposed turning spindles that deliver 30 hp and 5,000 rpm each.

HMCs, Turn/Mills Aid Diversification Strategy

This company had expanded its facility, implemented Lean practices and taken other steps to improve efficiency, but breaking into new sectors such as wind energy would require new technology. Two turn/mill machines and two HMCs from Mazak enabled the company to take on new jobs and win suppliers’ confidence for more opportunities in the future.

Last Glance at IMTS 2010

It would be impossible to cover all of the key exhibitors at IMTS 2010—even if every booth got merely a quick glance. However, the editors of MMS did get glimpses of some interesting technologies exhibited at the show...

Vertical Turning Center for Heavy Duty Cutting

The Megaturn Nexus 900 is a new generation CNC vertical turning center that is suited for heavy-duty cutting of large cast iron and steel workpieces found in the construction machinery, industrial machinery and jet engine industries.

The Right Fit Is In The Fixtures

Custom engineered workholding fixtures are key to the effectiveness of an unusual Automated Production System (APS) recently installed at Kurt Manufacturing. It helps that one of this company’s specialties is custom engineered workholding fixtures.

Turning Center for Large Part Turning

Mazak’s slant-turn Nexus 550M CNC turning center is designed for large parts such as oil field pipes, pipeline control valves, turbine wheels, aircraft and off-road parts.

High-Productivity, Two-Axis Lathe

Mazak’s Quick Turn Smart series of two-axis lathes is designed for high-productivity job shop environments.

VMC For High-Speed Operations

Mazak’s Nexus VCN 700D/40-II HS VMC is designed to maximize efficiency in high speed machining operations.

More Efficient Turbine Blade Milling

Video shows a multitasking machine milling a turbine blade in a cycle that few machining centers could replicate.

A Significant Cell

Manual loading of heavy housings was this manufacturer’s prime bottleneck. It had limited experience with automated cells, but decided to install a big one. A look at the manufacturer’s $13 million cell reveals an intriguing layout and blend of technologies.

Turning Center Automates With Gantry Loader

Mazak’s Hyper Quadrex200MSY features two high-performance spindles and upper and lower turrets to target balanced cutting for medium- to high-volume unattended applications.

Honing On A Horizontal Machining Center

A specially designed tooling package for honing operations, along with live, on-board gaging, allows critical honing operations to move to HMCs, thereby eliminating several separate steps on multiple dedicated machines.

If You Want to Improve Something, Measure It

This shop involves all of its employees in the daily exercise of analyzing just where time is being spent.

VMC Manages Long, Heavy Workpieces

Mazak’s versatile VTC-200G VMC is designed for part production of long, heavy workpieces. The 154.

See The Tool's Value Instead Of Its Cost

This company is embracing high-performance tooling on its turning centers. The "sticker shock" is no reason not to do this. In one case, though, the shop found a way to limit the cost of the tool and increase productivity at the same time.

Software Supports Cell-Based Production Process

Implementing advanced manufacturing cells can help a shop improve productivity, but the cells themselves may be only part of the solution. That’s the case at Wilcox Industries, which combined advanced manufacturing capabilities of automated machining with the flexibility of Mastercam CAD/CAM software to keep up with continuing growth.

Bringing It All Together

Shops that serve medical instrument and implant manufacturers face special challenges. Their customers typically want precisely machined parts plus the extras such as finishing, marking, assembly and expert handling of the regulatory paperwork. That’s why this shop is focused on providing more than just the machining.

The Basics Of Producing Big Parts

This Florence, Kentucky-based machine tool builder uses its own equipment to produce machine tools. Here’s how they succeed at big-part machining on a large five-axis machining center.

Video: Basics of Thin Wall Machining

To mill thin walls in aluminum using fast light cuts, machine on alternating sides of the wall all the way down, jumping the wall with each new pass.

Hole Making: Combination Tools

This video demonstrates hole making. Hole making often involves sequential operations such as drill-then-tap. Combination tools that perform these operations simultaneously can eliminate tool changes, saving cycle time. Many combination tools call for helical interpolation. The video shows the same series of hole

Striving To Be Partners, Not Shops

The two divisions within this business machine complex parts for the medical and aerospace industries. So in that sense they’re shops. However, in order to grow with their customers, they realized they had to be more than just providers of good parts. They needed to serve as their customers’ manufacturing partners.

Flexible Automation Process Helps Shop Reduce Costs

Despite hitting production goals, this shop had trouble meeting customer cost targets. It needed further automation. After purchasing Fanuc robots to service its flexible manufacturing system (FMS), the company has reduced costs enough to pay back its investment.

Lean Manufacturing For The Job Shop

Lean practices are not just for predictable production. Here are the common-sense ways this low-volume job shop has implemented a leaner process.

Macro Economics

Instead of NC programs that are dedicated to particular parts and machines, this plant now uses macro programs that react to geometric variations across broad part families. The plant wrote these macros itself, and the return on this investment has been dramatically greater productivity.

Simulation Saves Cost By Balancing Workflow

Although CAM programming had been automated for many years within the Morton Grove, Illinois, facility of the John Crane Inc. (JCI) Seals Division, the shop here found a way to make the process even more efficient. It found a way to get new, complex, multi-axis turning centers into production quickly, and to maximize the productivity of these CNC machine tools in cellular manufacturing.

CAM Software As A Creativity Tool

This job shop relies on its CNC programming software to unlock the productivity of its multi-axis, multi-tasking machine tools and CNC Swiss-type machines.

Ductile-Iron Towers Provide Needed Clamping Rigidity

Holding 0.001-inch tolerances while machining and removing large amounts of material from a brass part is a challenging task when the job is run at 10,000 revolutions per minute with feed rate of 240 inches per minute.

Machining’s Role In Making Cancer "History"

A machine shop in a new cancer treatment center produces components to precisely guide proton radiation to eliminate its target—cancerous tumors.

Cylinder Head Porting On A Turn/Mill Machine

This complex milling operation is performed effectively on a machine that does turning.

Re-envisioning Automation

The Future of Machining - 2005 Add vision systems to robots, and fundamental aspects of the process deserve a second look.

Multitasking Knocks Out Unnecessary Setups For Valve Manufacturer

Cla-Val is a 65-year-old manufacturer that designs and produces valves for fire protection, water works, aviation, ground fueling, marine, industrial waste and numerous other applications. Its valve sizes range from 3/8 inch to 24 inches. Most valve components are produced from precision castings delivered from its in-house foundry.

Machining Centers Reconsidered

A stable customer relationship gave this shop the chance to fundamentally change its equipment.

Mold Machining On The Move

Rethinking the mold machining process leads to concepts worth considering, even for applications outside mold making.

Custom Fixtures Off The Shelf

Using a new software system, custom 3D fixtures can be generated automatically. The software creates 2D fixture components that can be laser cut and assembled for a fraction of the cost and in significantly less time than other methods.

What’s Next For Nexus?

New models in the Mazak family expand the concept.

The Knowledge System

This company sees knowledge to be a vital production resource. Capturing and sharing information are now routine functions on the shop floor. Here are lessons the company learned.

You Can Automate More Than You Think

This shop expedites 3D milling work by reducing its dependence on employees for all of the information-related tasks that occur before the machining center can start to cut.

Prototyping Productivity

A manufacturer of hermetic compressors proves out a new strategy based on multi-process machining.

Manufacturer Slices Cycle Time 80 Percent

Most of this company's work is machined to tight tolerances and super-high finishes. It builds, assembles, tests and then ships a complete product. The many multi-faceted parts being machined typically required several setups on different machines, often with cumbersome pallet and indexing devices.

Breaking The CAM Logjam

A manufacturer of metal stampings bridges the gap between generations of hardware and software.

Up To 12 Tools In One Holder

Imagine a single cutting toolholder that can be used to perform 12 distinct metalcutting operations without a tool change. That's the concept behind a new cutting tool innovation designed and built by Mazak.

New Contours Of Competition

Toronto aerospace shops improve productivity with faster five-axis machining centers.

Controlling The Cyber Shop

In recent years, technological trends have taken the form of multi-process machines with sophisticated monitoring and control systems. The ultimate purpose of marrying advanced hardware and software is to achieve a fully automated and more reliable manufacturing process.

Manufacturer Halves Cycle Times With Machining Center

The complex shapes of the iron castings that make up the housings for this company's flow meters require machining on multiple faces. The castings undergo various types of machining operations, from drilling to helical thread milling.

Manufacturing Cell Boosts Profits And Flexibility

One machine shop owner in old New England, not far from where Paul Revere made his famous ride, saw a tight labor market as a call to revolutionize his company.

Making Short Work Of Small Lots

Multi-tasking is a word typically associated with the consequences of ever-changing human job descriptions. For the people at Mazak Corporation, however, the word applies equally to metalworking machines.

Cutting Time

This company modified its production process to cut not just metal, but also setup time, costs and the effects of the labor crunch.

Small Shop, Mighty Machines

Multitasking machines capable of completely machining complex, milled and turned parts in a single setup are powering this Chicago-area job shop's growth.

Three Steps To Succeed As A Minority Automotive Supplier

When Gary Malloy and Reggie Ball formed Sturgis Machining in February 1998, it was with the intent of becoming a premier minority machine shop to General Motors.

Manufacturer Takes Innovative Approach To Advanced Manufacturing Processes

Thousands of contract manufacturing shops across North America that produce commodity parts such as shafts, arbors, bearing races, gear splines, and so on, have one problem in common: how to do it faster and less expensively.

Unique's Approach To Mold Making

This Canadian mold making shop, Unique Mould Makers, is aptly named. Virtually every multi-cavity injection mold set made for the manufacture of caps, closures, vials and other packaging applications is indeed unique. One might think that automation and standardization would not be of interest to such a shop. Think again!

Six Keys To Success In Single Piece Production

The seventh key is that the profits often come later.

Consider Milling On Your Turning Center

Most shops are looking to reduce throughput time. One sensible method is to eliminate multiple part handlings and work-in-process time. Advances in machine tool capability and programmability enable more job shops and general-purpose manufacturers to take advantage of turn/mill machines. Here's a look at the state-of-the-art.

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