Mazak will unveil its new VC-500A/5X AM HWD multitasking machine.
The VC-500A/5X AM HWD incorporates new and innovative HOT WIRE additive manufacturing (AM) technology that Mazak developed in collaboration with Lincoln Electric. With HOT WIRE laser deposition technology, the VC-500A/5X AM HWD not only offers a high-speed additive solution and programmable welding automation but also full 5-axis machining center capabilities.
As with conventional welding, an arc torch melts metal wire directly on to a base material and/or part, and the two materials (wire and workpiece) can be dissimilar. This allows shops to generate precise sealing coatings along with near-net shape part features or use the machine to repair costly complex components such as impellers and turbine blades along with tool and die parts.
The machine's HOT WIRE head has the same 5-axis capability as its milling spindle, which provides the maneuverability to build new part features or weldments on all of a workpiece's surfaces. It is suited for high-volume AM and helps minimize equipment and material costs.
The HOT WIRE laser cladding head incorporates an automatic wire feeder system that feeds welding wire to an Argon gas nozzle. The head delivers a deposition rate of three to four lbs. per hour with a 98% material utilization rate.
The VC-500A/5X AM HWD has a trunnion-style rotary/tilt table for the accurate, cost-effective processing of small complex parts via full 5-axis machining. The machine also features the MAZATROL SmoothX CNC and MTConnect capability that allow for easier programming and faster part cycle times - in either EIA or MAZATROL conversational language - along with digital connectivity.
On its milling side, the VC-500A/5X AM HWD comes standard equipped with a high-performance CAT-40, 12,000 RPM spindle that delivers enhanced metal removal capabilities in all common materials, including steel, aluminum and cast iron. Optional speeds of 15,000 RPM and 20,000 RPM are available to address a variety of part production requirements. A 30-tool storage magazine ensures continuous uninterrupted part machining, as does the machine's compact chip conveyor and mist collector with smoke filter.
For more information contact:
Mazak Corporation
P.O. Box 970
Florence, KY 41022-0970
859-342-1700
www.mazakusa.com
IMTS 2018 Level 3, Booth W-432000