VARIAXIS i-700 efficiently processes long workpieces in single setups
Florence, Kentucky, June 11, 2012 - Mazak will showcase more than 20 high-performance machine tools in booth S-8300 at IMTS 2012, taking place Sept. 10 - 15 in Chicago, Ill. Among those machines is the new versatile VARIAXIS i-700 5-axis machining center, which, in single setups, efficiently processes long workpieces and those requiring precision machined complex curved surfaces, such as on various aerospace, automotive and marine components.
The VARIAXIS i-700 is a full simultaneous 5-axis Multi-Tasking vertical machining center that falls within Mazak's Done-In-One concept as it incorporates all processes from raw material input through final machining in just one machine. As such, the VARIAXIS i-700 reduces production lead times, improves machining accuracy and lowers operating expenses. Furthermore, it can tackle a wide range of applications, from heavy-duty cutting to high-speed cutting of aluminum and other nonferrous materials.
With a spacious Y-axis travel of 43.30" (1,100 mm) and X-axis of 24.80" (630 mm), the VARIAXIS i-700 easily accommodates workpieces measuring up to 33.46" (850 mm) in diameter and 19.68" (500 mm) high. Its roller gear cam-driven rotary/tilt table, with 360 degrees of rotation in the C-axis and +30 degrees through -120 degrees of tilt in the A- axis, is supported at both ends and provides stable high-accuracy machining.
The VARIAXIS i-700 comes standard with a fast, high-rigidity 12,000-rpm, 30-hp 40-taper spindle with a compact nose design that helps increase the machine's Z-axis stroke to 23.62" (600 mm) and overall machining stability by allowing for the use of shorter tools. An optional 18,000-rpm spindle is also available. A 30-tool automatic tool changer adds part processing flexibility and contributes to continuous non-interrupted machining operations.
The VARIAXIS i-700 comes with a reliable cam-driver tool changer. It is able to meet the machining requirements of a wide variety of workpieces thanks to its tool magazine capacities, from the standard 30 tools up to the maximum of 120 tools.
Speed and increased productivity are gained through the fast rapid traverse rates of the VARIAXIS i-700, as well as from its use of Mazak's MX Hybrid Roller Guide System in the X-, Y- and Z-axes. The machine rapid traverses as fast as 2,362 ipm (60 m/min) in the X- and Y-axes and 2,205 ipm (56 m/min) in the Z-axis.
The MX Hybrid Roller Guide System delivers levels of durability and reliability that result in long-term accuracy. Mazak's MX Hybrid Roller Guide System increases vibration dampening to extend tool life, handles higher load capacities, accelerates and decelerates quicker to shorten cycle times, consumes less oil for "Greener" operations, and lasts longer with less required maintenance.
The VARIAXIS i-700 features Mazak's new MAZATROL MATRIX 2 CNC control. Within the control are both enhanced hardware and software functionalities that make the control easy to use while also delivering high accuracy and increased productivity. Control hardware performance is much faster with higher processing speeds for small increment operation. Furthermore, a 5-axis spline interpolation function included in the control's software provides smooth toolpaths from long block-by-block programs, easy tool vector control and shorter cycle times as well as superior surface finishes.
As part of Mazak's Five Levels of Multi-Tasking, the VARIAXIS i-700 is a Level 4 machine because it provides full simultaneous 5-axis capability. Mazak's Five Levels of Multi-Tasking allow manufacturers to precisely match machine capabilities to part processing requirements. Machine features and functionalities within the other four levels range from Level 1 with single spindle and rotating tool capabilities and Level 2 with Y-axis off-center machining to Level 3 machines featuring independent milling spindle headstocks with B-axis indexing, as well as full Y-axis travels and tool storage, and Level 5 Ultra-Tasking machines with additional specialized machining functions and Multi-Tasking automation.
At IMTS, Mazak will integrate the VARIAXIS i-700 with an optional 2-pallet changer to show attendees how to significantly reduce part cycle times and machine non-cut times for achieving even higher production levels. With an automatic 2-pallet changer, the machine operators can load, unload and inspect parts on one pallet, while the machine continues to work on parts fixtured on the other pallet. When one pallet of work is completed, change out time between the two pallets is a matter of seconds.
In addition to running real-world application cutting demonstrations on the VARIAXIS i-700, Mazak will also feature advanced machining technologies for a wide variety of industry segments, including aerospace, automotive, energy and medical. Additionally, IMTS attendees will get to experience a brand new Mazak booth as well as learn about a new 3-4-5 manufacturing solution for better tailoring Mazak machines to specific applications.