“Shops are now able to use a solid model to obtain part geometries, but still program conversationally. Neil Desrosiers, applications engineer/developer at Mazak, describes Quick Mazatrol as a hybrid born from the marriage of a CAM system and conversational programming. On the part programming side, new software functions include Quick Mazatrol, Quick EIA and full five-axis 3D simulation. What Should Machinists Know About In-Machine Probing? New functions of the control include Intelligent Pocket Milling (to maintain a constant angle of tool engagement), Seamless Corner Control (to avoid burying a cutter when entering a 90-degree corner) and Real-Time Tuning (to optimize turret indexing when tool loads are uneven).

This development is said to shorten machining times and enhance such operations as full simultaneous five-axis machining and complex mold machining. With this CNC, Mazak says that it has quadrupled interpolation speed over previous-generation controls. The most prominent component of the Smooth Technology package is the new Mazatrol SmoothX CNC. The concept combines part programming, setup, the actual metal removal operations, integrated automation, and monitoring through the collection and transfer of performance data. All of these components have been engineered to work together for enhanced functionality, speed and ergonomics, the company says. Smooth Technology is a complete package of control unit, machine hardware and servo systems. Smooth Technology is the umbrella term Mazak (Florence, Kentucky) is using to describe its new concept for the programming and control of complex, multi-axis machine tools.

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