Florence, KY - Mazak Corporation has introduced its fiber laser-based INTEGREX i-400AM HYBRID Multi-Tasking machine, which has utility in small lot production of very difficult-to-cut materials such as those used in the aerospace, energy, and medical industries. With the additive manufacturing capability, manufacturers can generate/clad near-net-shape component features and then quickly complete them with high-precision finish machining operations, as well as laser-mark parts if needed.
In operation, the machine melts metal powder using fiber laser heat. Cladding heads (additive manufacturing nozzles) apply the molten material layer by layer, each of which solidifies as the desired shape grows. Plus, the system can join different types of metals to one another, a capability beneficial in the efficient repair of existing worn or damaged components, such as aerospace turbine blades.
Cladding heads store in the machine's tool magazine, and the standard automatic tool changer loads them into the machine's milling turret. The company offers high-speed and high-accuracy cladding heads—users select the appropriate head based on the intended process and the particular metal powder to be used.
The machine provides full 5-axis capability to process prismatic parts from solid billets or castings (chucked or bar fed), round parts, highly contoured parts, and those with features built using additive technology. The machine provides -30/+210 degree B-axis movement in its milling spindle, full C-axis contouring with its turning spindle, and an NC tailstock that is fully programmable.
For more information, please visit www.mazakusa.com.