Worcester-based Yamazaki Mazak UK Ltd has unveiled the Variaxis C-600, a new high-accuracy simultaneous five-axis vertical machining centre that is suitable for use by a wide range of sectors, including aerospace and automotive.

The successor to the Variaxis j-600/5X, the C-600 is ‘characterised by its highly agile performance, with no compromise on rigidity’.

It accommodates parts up to 730mm in diameter x 450mm high and weighing up to 500kg, and features a 600mm-diameter fully supported trunnion table with roller gear cam on the B and C axes, 42m/min rapid-traverse rates and a chip-to-chip time of just 4.5sec. Moreover, a range of ‘specification options’ enables machine users to configure the C-600 to match their specific application.

The machine, which can undertake the heavy-duty cutting of steel, as well as the high-speed machining of non-ferrous materials, offers four spindle options: the standard 12,000rev/min spindle; a 15,000rev/min high-torque spindle; an 18,000rev/min high-speed spindle; and a 20,000rev/min high-power spindle.

AI adaptive control
Also featured is a 30-tool magazine with double-arm ATC; 60-, 90- and 120-tool magazine options are available. The C-600 also uses Mazak’s SmoothAi Spindle function; this uses ‘AI adaptive control’ to suppress milling spindle chatter by adjusting cutting technology based on feedback from sensors built into the machine.

The modularity of the C-600 also extends to the variety of coolant packages — up to 70 bar — that are available for different applications. Dedicated iron, aluminium, composite and casting machining packages are also available as options.

Furthermore, the C-600 has been designed to integrate easily with a range of automation solutions, such as MPP and Palletech; options such as a side loading door, and preparation for hydraulic and pneumatic fixture interfaces are also available to support bespoke automation projects with articulated robots.

Integration of automation is further enhanced with Mazak’s new Smooth RCC (Robot Cell Controller), while the Robot Setup Assist enables efficient programming of a robot in the same co-ordinate system as the machine.

The C-600 also features SmoothAi, Mazak’s new artificial intelligence control, which has ‘built-in learning capability to continually improve machine performance’.

For example, Smooth Machining Configuration Plus allows operators to easily adjust features including cycle time, surface finish and machined shape on the CNC display according to material requirements.

Meanwhile, Smooth Project Manager allows the easy management of data required to execute machining programs, such as tool data, fixtures, coordinates, parameters and workpiece 3-D models, while the new Ai Thermal Shield function uses algorithms to automatically determine the compensation needed to accommodate changes in temperature.