Mazak Vertical Center Nexus Compact with Automation

Fast cycle times and superior surface finishes come with Mazak’s new Vertical Center Nexus (VNC) Compact. Designed to accurately and efficiently machine small, highly complex medical parts, this compact high-speed vertical machining center with 5-axis capabilities exceeds the medical industry’s growing demand for lean manufacturing and precision.

The VNC Compact, which is available in 3- and 5-axis versions, meets lean manufacturing standards through the use of small-footprint, high-speed machines that offer absolute precision when creating high-quality parts with superior surface finishes. Additionally, the machine’s new Matrix 2 CNC control and 5-axis machining capabilities significantly shorten design-to-market time, allowing doctors to quickly fulfill the needs of their patients. 

Mazak designed the Matrix 2 CNC control to optimize 5-axis machining. 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. The 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 5-axis surface finishes. The advanced Matrix 2 CNC control is featured on the 5-axis machine model, while Mazak’s user-friendly Matrix Nexus CNC control is featured on the 3-axis model.

The VNC Compact gets its power and versatility from a robust, high torque 25hp, 12,000rpm CAT 40 spindle and axis travels of 19.69” (500mm) in the X-axis, 16.93” (430mm) in the Y-axis and 20.08” (510mm) in Z-axis. The machine delivers the aggressive performance required for tough materials, such as stainless steel, Inconel, and titanium, used in medical and other manufacturing applications. An optional 40hp, 20,000rpm spindle is also available.

With a 65” x 88” (1,651mm x 2,235mm) compact footprint, the VNC Compact fits into most facilities. The machine’s table measures 25.6” x 15.7” (650.2mm x 398.7mm) and accommodates parts up to 661lb. (330kg).

The machine’s three linear axes attain high-speed rapid traverse rates of 1,417ipm (36m per minute) and fast feedrates of 315ipm (8m per minute). Plus, the VNC Compact accommodates 20 tools in its tool magazine (30 tools optional) to further increase part production versatility.

For rigid and precise 5-axis machining of small, complex parts, Mazak’s rotary/tilt table on the VNC Compact is constructed with durable high-speed roller drive technology, allowing the table to rotate and tilt at speeds of 100rpm and 75rpm, respectively. The table supports a maximum workpiece weight of 66 lb (30kg), tilts at angles from -20° to 120°, and provides a holding torque of 249ft/lb and machining torque of 63ft/lb.

The VNC Compact features Mazak’s MX Hybrid Roller Guide System to deliver levels of durability and reliability that result in long-term accuracy. This innovative way system increases vibration dampening, extends tool life, handles higher load capacities, and eliminates tramp oil in the coolant by using a greener grease-based lubrication system.