Yamazaki Mazak has hailed the start of a new era of CNC after the European launch of its SMOOTH TECHNOLOGY, at the company’s Worcester headquarters.
SMOOTH TECHNOLOGY incorporates the new MAZATROL SMOOTHX CNC alongside new machine hardware and servo systems to deliver an improved operator experience, faster machining times and further integrates CNC into the overall factory management system. The result is a breakthrough in CNC which uses intuitive operations in a similar manner to smartphones and tablets
The launch event, which ran over three consecutive days in May, showcased the versatility of SMOOTHX as the new control system was installed across five different machine tools, as well as a number of SMOOTHX simulation panels, to demonstrate the technology’s compatibility across a wide range of machining applications, from turning and milling to multi-tasking and full 5-axis machining.
The machines on display included: an INTEGREX i-100 BARTAC-ST; INTEGREX i-200S; INTEGREX i-400; INTEGREX i-630V/6; and a VARIAXIS i-700T.
With a number of customers from across the continent visiting the site, which is home to Mazak’s European headquarters, advanced manufacturing facility and European Technology Centre – the event was a true celebration of the positive state of Europe’s manufacturing industry.
As with all Mazak technology, the new SMOOTHX is designed with ergonomic comfort for the operator front of mind. The operating panel boasts a 19 inch touch screen which is 36% smaller than its predecessor and can be rotated to suit the posture of the operator.
Crucially, SMOOTHX is capable of ultra-fast processing speeds up to four times faster than its predecessor, enabling it to respond to the demands of the latest generation of servo motors employed.
Richard Smith, Managing Director UK & Ireland Sales Division for Yamazaki Mazak, commented: “Our May Open House is always one of the first events to be scheduled on our calendar and this year’s event proved to be as popular as ever. Coinciding with the European launch of our most innovative CNC to date – SMOOTHX – it proved to be a great event for the company and a fantastic opportunity to introduce the technology to our customers first hand.”
He continued: “SMOOTHX is a revolution in CNC, which goes beyond merely using a touch screen to reduce programming times, by delivering a step-change capable of dramatic improvements in overall machine performance. The May Open House was an excellent platform from which to launch it to the European market and we’re excited to see the SMOOTHX revolution underway.”
