Bigger Machines, Higher Loads and Acceleration Leads Mazak to Advanced Motion Control Strategy

(FLORENCE, KENTUCKY) – Mazak Corporation has adopted the use of Linear Motion Roller Guides in many of its models whenever high-static or dynamic loads are encountered. Compared with conventional plain guides, roller guides offer numerous advantages for high-performance machine tools.

The first is very low, consistent friction factors, which allow tighter control of positioning, small incremental moves and repeatability. There are very small differences in static (start-up) and dynamic friction, making motion control very reliable and energy efficient. In addition, low-friction linear guides allow increased velocity leading to improved machining efficiency.

Linear Motion Roller Guides also are known for their high reliability and long life. Rolling, as opposed to sliding, creates very little wear of raceways and rolling elements over long periods of operation. And, long life can be designed-in from the ground up as the life calculation formulas of roller guides are well established.

Finally, roller guides require a minimum of lubrication, which offers two distinct advantages. A thin film of lubrication helps preserve accurate linearity while conventional slides are sometimes affected by variations in oil film thickness. And lubrication is easy, requiring only grease lubrication in most applications, saving on maintenance tasks and reducing the need to dispose of hazardous lubricating materials.

A number of new and existing models utilize this linear motion technology including the new VCN 700D-II, the largest version to date of the NEXUS family of Vertical Machining Centers; the new HCN 8800-II, an extended range and capacity Horizontal Machining Center; and the new INTEGREX i-150 Multi-Tasking Center with integrated material handling and the most advanced Intelligent Machine Functions.

Existing Mazak machines with linear motion technology include the HCN 6800-II, a mid-range Horizontal Machining Center; the VARIAXIS 730-II, the largest member of the VARIAXIS five-axis Multi-Tasking centers; INTEGREX e-RAMTEC V/8, a large Multi-Tasking Center with a unique ram for machining the inside of large parts; and the VORTEX 1400-II, the large range, five-axis Vertical Machining Center for the Aerospace industry.

About Mazak Corporation

Mazak Corporation is a leader in the design and manufacture of productivity-improving machine tool solutions. Committed to being a partner to customers with innovative technology, its world-class facility in Florence, Kentucky recently increased its production capacity to 200 machines per month. Continuous training and development of the workforce has created a "lean" culture, which has created opportunities for continuing growth in America. Mazak maintains eight Technology Centers across North America to provide local hands-on applications, service and sales support to its customers. For more information on Mazak's products and solutions, visit www.mazakusa.com or follow us on Twitter at and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/MazakCorp.