Mazak to bring ‘future-ready’ manufacturing to MACH 2026

Mazak’s new UK-made CV5-700 five-axis machining centre

Yamazaki Mazak UK Ltd will unveil a host of ‘future-ready’ manufacturing technologies at MACH 2026, which takes place 20-24 April at the NEC Birmingham (Hall 20, Stand 330), to help UK machine users position themselves for growth. The company’s stand will highlight Mazak’s complete offering across the manufacturing ecosystem — from the very latest in machine tools and smart automation systems to connected technologies, all of which can operate together to help customers take their next step towards increased productivity while remaining secure in their operations.

Nine different machine tools will be on display, many of which will be shown in the UK for the first time. The selection represents the full suite of Mazak’s portfolio and includes the company’s latest developments for machine tool users searching for both entry-level and advanced multi-tasking solutions. Mazak’s MACH stand will give visitors a first glimpse of the latest generation of its highly popular, UK-made CV5-500 five-axis machining centre, alongside a new CV5-700 model with increased workpiece capacity. The CV5-500 offers an accessible entry point for both first-time Mazak customers and three-axis users with multiple setups looking to transition into fully simultaneous five-axis work.

Following customer demand for a CV5 model with increased capacity, the CV5-700 — also manufactured in the UK — can handle larger workpieces up to a diameter of 700 x 450mm height and 400kg in weight. For customers ready to transition into more advanced machining operations, Mazak’s new UK-manufactured Integrex j-200 NEO offers a productivity upgrade for turret lathe users wanting to move beyond turning to integrated milling, drilling and multi-faced machining operations.

Among the machines being displayed for the first time is Mazak’s latest high-productivity turning solution, the QRX-50 MSY. Featuring a twin-spindle, double-turret construction designed to deliver fast return on investment and improved margins, it is ideally suited for the production of high-quality turned components such as hydraulic fittings, aerospace fasteners and other general sub-contract production with medium-to-high batch sizes.

Also making its UK exhibition debut will be the VC-Ez 410 IP 40-taper vertical machining centre (pictured left). It offers a fast return on investment for high-volume manufacturing applications through a combination of class-leading spindle technology, rapid speeds and intuitive machine control.

Meanwhile, Mazak’s flagship Integrex series now includes the latest specialist gear-cutting technology and the Integrex i-350 Neo AG, showing for the first time at MACH, will be the first in the new range of Integrex i-Neo multi-tasking machining centres designed to enhance productivity and lower emissions. The integration of advanced grinding capabilities enables operators to combine turning, milling and grinding in a single set-up to reduce cycle times while also improving surface finish and dimensional accuracy.

MPP automation upgrade
With demand for more complex automation systems growing among UK machine users, MACH will also unveil the latest upgrade to Mazak’s highly popular multi-pallet-pool automation (MPP) system (pictured right) — the MPP 25. Supporting the HCN-5000 NEO horizontal machining centre, Mazak’s newest MPP system features an expanded 24-pallet storage capacity while retaining a compact footprint, making it ideal for small-lot, multi-product production.

A team of experts will be on hand throughout the exhibition to support customers with their own connectivity, digitalisation and cyber security initiatives, providing insights on a range of emerging challenges including compliance with the upcoming Cyber Resilience Act.

Helping manufacturers optimise productivity through digital solutions, all Mazak machines have access to the Mazak iCONNECT information hub. This includes all key documents, from manuals to machine specifications, as well as important links and updates such as parts information and online training. Through Mazak iCONNECT users can download Mazatrol DX, Mazak’s revolutionary software that allows users to simulate machining operations, optimise cutting strategies and generate quotes — all from the comfort of the office before a single piece of metal is cut.

Alan Mucklow, managing director UK and national distributors at Yamazaki Mazak, said: “Despite the uncertainty of the past year, MACH 2026 arrives at a time when the UK manufacturing community feels poised for action. Having recorded strong orders in the first months of the year, especially for our extensive portfolio of UK-made machines, we are beginning to see a tangible shift in attitudes to investment plans.

“With more customers committing to CapEx projects, the solutions available must be flexible and future ready — whether that is the ability to offer multiple operations or high throughput from a compact footprint to the integration of advanced machining programs or smart automation systems. Our MACH stand will showcase nine different machining solutions, all of which can have a day-one impact on operations. We are excited to discuss their potential with both current and new customers over what promises to be a very engaging week.”