Mazak's Done in one masterclass

The event, which takes place at Mazak's European headquarters in Worcester, will highlight the savings that can be made through the application of latest machine tool hardware and CADCAM software. The focus of the event is to demonstrate to existing and potential customers the benefits of combining the latest in machine tool technology with state-of-the art CADCAM, the results of which are increased productivity and profitability. While a number of Mazak machines will be machining a range of components representative of those found across a variety of industry sectors, the centre of attention will be the Mazak Variaxis 630 5X-II T 5-axis machining centre (pictured). This machine tool will be demonstrating the versatility of Open Mind's 2009.1 hyperMILL package. The pairing of the machine and software will highlight the simplicity by which complex components can be manufactured in a highly cost-effective manner. Other machines being demonstrated include the award winning Integrex i-150 and the multi-tasking Integrex e-650H II. All of these machines are full, simultaneous, multi-axis machine tools but they will be used to highlight the productivity savings that can be achieved with 3+2 machining using hyperMILL. In traditional 3+2 machining, the cutting tool moves clear of the part when the table re-positions itself for machining alternate faces. This time consuming exercise is virtually eliminated by hyperMILL by keeping the cutting tool close to the workpiece while the machine spindle or table repositions the component. By linking the tool movement to the position of the workpiece productivity can be boosted by more than 30 per cent, it is claimed. Other demonstrations will show how Open Mind's software can convert a 2D drawing/model into a CAM-generated part, which is then subject to machine simulation before being manufactured on a Mazak machine tool. The benefits of this are reduced throughput time, particularly where small batch quantities are concerned. Open Mind is used extensively in Formula One. Indeed, the company claims that every one of the cars on the grid contains parts programmed using hyperMILL. Anyone interested in attending the presentations, on either day, should contact Yamazaki Mazak, on 01905 755 755, or Open Mind, on 01865 338 026.