Decoding Mazak's Naming Convention: A Guide to Understanding Your CNC Machine Options

Are you considering a Mazak machine for your manufacturing business, but find yourself lost in the world of Mazak naming conventions? You're not alone! With a wide variety of machine series, models, and control systems, understanding Mazak's naming conventions can be a bit daunting. Don't worry, we're here to help you navigate the maze of Mazak machines and their unique nomenclature.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down Mazak's naming conventions, from machine series to control systems, to help you make informed decisions when selecting the right machine for your business. By the end of this article, you'll be a pro at deciphering Mazak machine names and their features.

Mazak Machine Series

Mazak Corporation, a global leader in machine tool technology, offers a diverse range of machine series, including:

1. Horizontal and Vertical Machining Centers: High-precision machines designed for various milling operations.
2. Turning Centers: Lathes for a wide array of turning applications.
3. Multi-Tasking Machines: Combining milling and turning capabilities for increased productivity and reduced setup times.
4. Laser Cutting Systems: Advanced laser technology for precision cutting of various materials.

Machine Model Prefixes

Mazak uses specific prefixes in their machine names to indicate the type of machine:

1. H: Horizontal Machining Centers (e.g., HCN-6800)
2. V: Vertical Machining Centers (e.g., VCN-700)
3. Q: Quick Turn Series (e.g., QT-250MY)
4. I: Integrex Series (e.g., i-200S)
5. VTC: Vertical Traveling Column Series (e.g., VTC-300C)
6. Others: Specialized machines for unique applications (e.g., HYBRID Multi-Tasking machines, Orbitec Series)

Machine Model Suffixes

Mazak adds suffixes to machine names to denote specific features and capabilities:

1. T: Turning (e.g., QT-250T)
2. M: Milling (e.g., QT-250M)
3. Y: Y-axis capability (e.g., QT-250MY)
4. S: Sub-spindle (e.g., QT-250MS)
5. W: Second turning spindle (e.g., INTEGREX i-200SW)
6. G: Gantry loader (e.g., HCN-5000G)

Control System Designations

Mazak machines use a variety of control systems, which are indicated in the machine name:

1. MAZATROL: Mazak's proprietary conversational programming language (e.g., MAZATROL Matrix Nexus)
2. M: Indicates a MAZATROL control system (e.g., QT-250MYM)
3. T: Indicates a MAZATROL T-Plus control system (e.g., QT-250T)
4. Fusion: Indicates a MAZATROL Fusion 640 control system (e.g., VCN-510C)
5. Smooth: Indicates a MAZATROL Smooth control system (e.g., QT-250MSY)

Machine Generations

Mazak continuously updates their machine designs to incorporate the latest technology. As a result, they use a numbering system to distinguish between generations:

1. First Generation: No number (e.g., VCN-510C)
2. Second Generation: II (e.g., VCN-510C-II)
3. Third Generation: III (e.g., VCN-510C-III)

Now that you have a solid understanding of Mazak's naming conventions, you can confidently navigate their vast product catalog and select the perfect machine for your manufacturing needs. Remember, each machine series, model prefix, suffix, control system, and generation holds valuable information about the machine's capabilities and features. Armed with this knowledge, you'll be better equipped to make informed decisions that will benefit your business and help you achieve your production goals. Happy machining!