FLORENCE, Ky., September 20, 2022 – Mazak showcased automation solutions within the reach of virtually any shop with its demonstration of the Kentucky-built VC-Ez 20 Vertical Machining Center at IMTS 2022. The automation-ready machine's rugged 40-taper spindle and space-saving design offer unprecedented affordability, with a full range of spindle, auto tool changer and chip/coolant management options.
The affordable, highly configurable VC-Ez 20 meets many production needs with a compact, space-saving design. Enhanced operator ergonomics and a generous work area ease the loading and unloading of workpieces and tools, while an extremely fast traverse rate of 1,654 ipm (42 m/min) in the X, Y and Z axes enables higher throughput. A 25 hp (18.64 kW) 12,000 rpm (standard) or versatile 29.5 hp (22 kW) 15,000 rpm (optional) spindle offers 81.13 ft-lb (110 Nm) of torque for additional production versatility.
To optimize part-size flexibility, axis travels on the VC-Ez 20 measure 41.34" in X, 20.08" in Y and 25" in Z (1050 mm x 510 mm x 635 mm), which enable the machine to accommodate maximum workpiece sizes of 49.21" long, 19.37" wide and 22.4" tall (1250 mm x 490 mm x 570 mm) and weights up to 2,204 lbs (1,000 kg). The ergonomically designed machine features a 102.65 sq ft (9.54 m2) footprint for 26.5% floor space savings over other models.
All VC-Ez Series machines sport C-frame designs with X and Y axis motion via moving the table and saddle. For rigidity and repeatable part precision, guideway systems use Mazak’s MX linear roller guide systems, and dual lagged pre-tensioned ball screws ensure precise axis movement. For increased maintenance free operation, the auger-type chip removal systems provides an economical solution, or for increased chip volume the addition of an affordable hinge-type chip conveyor that ships affixed to the machine to eliminate the cost of a second shipping pallet.
The machine is designed for standard or customized automation solutions for unattended production and productivity, including full collaborative robot installations such as Mazak Automation Systems’ CC-10 and CC-16 Cobot System models. The CC-10 system – shown with the VC-Ez 20 at IMTS – uses a FANUC CRX-10iA/L with 10 kg payload capacity, while the CC-16 is built around a Universal Robots UR16e platform with a 35.27 lb (16 kg) payload capacity. Both cobot models come with three available grip systems and use an area scanner with limited fixed fencing for fully collaborative human-robot workflows.
Additional popular options include a rotary table, filter tray, dual probe kit, through-spindle and Niagara coolant, auger chip conveyor and Mazak’s SUPERFLOW 1,000 psi high-pressure coolant system. For hands-free adjustment, operators can control an optional programmable coolant and/or air nozzle system via M-code or from a separate control panel for 180°+ range of motion and to teach a specific angular location for every tool.
For ease of control and programming success, Mazak’s MAZATROL SmoothEz CNC provides dual 800 MHz processors, 512 MB of RAM and a vibrant 15" capacitive touch screen that includes a full keyboard and displays up to 60 lines of code. Within the control, G-code and MAZATROL Conversational programming languages support a full range of programming options directly on the machine, while the MAZATROL TWINS function enables use of Solid MAZATROL, Virtual Machining and Cutting Adviser through Smooth Cam Ai and centralized storage and file management through Smooth Project Manager.