The Mazak VC-Ez 20 Featured HYBRID Multi-Tasking at IMTS 2026

Sep/14/2026
  • Company

FLORENCE, Ky., September 14, 2026 – For reliable machine-tool performance and additive manufacturing capability, IMTS 2026 attendees experienced the benefits of HYBRID Multi-Tasking in the form of Hot Wire Deposition (HWD) part processing with the VC-Ez 20 AM HWD Vertical Machining Center. The machine features the MAZATROL SmoothAi control and is optimized for 5-axis to simple operation, fast and easy installation, enhanced ergonomics, stable and reliable part processing and long-term dependability.

As in conventional welding, an HWD process melts metal wire directly onto a base material and/or part that can be made of dissimilar material. This technology allows shops to generate exceptionally precise seal coatings and near-net-shape part features, or to repair costly, complex components such as impellers, turbine blades, one-off cast parts and tool-and-die parts. The HWD laser deposition head feeds wire automatically to an argon gas nozzle. Depending on processing variables, the head can deliver a deposition rate of three to five pounds (1.36 to 2.27 kg) per hour, with a 98% material utilization rate.

Because the machine’s HWD head is mounted in the same plane as the milling spindle, it can use 5-axis capability to build new part features or weldments on a workpiece’s surface. It is well-suited for high-volume additive manufacturing and helps minimize equipment and material costs.

The VC-Ez 20 AM HWD machine accommodates workpieces up to Ø27.5 in (Ø700mm) diameter and 22 in (560mm) in height. Standard equipment includes a powerful Cat 40- connection, 12,000 rpm, 25 Hp (18.5 kW) spindle and 30-tool automatic tool changer. Mazak also offers, as optional, a 15,000 rpm or 20,000 rpm spindle and a 50-tool high-capacity automatic tool changer.

The VC-Ez 20 AM HWD features a C-frame design with X- and Y-axis motion over a Ø19.6 in (Ø500 mm) trunnion table. For rigidity and repeatable part precision, guideway systems use Mazak’s high-rigidity MX linear roller guide systems and pre-tensioned ball screws to ensure precise axis movement. An affordable, optional hinge belt chip conveyor is available for production environments that demand unattended machining.

To streamline VC-Ez 20 AM HWD machine programming and shorten the learning curve for new operators, Mazak’s MAZATROL SmoothAi control supports full 5-axis additive & machining and provides dual 800-MHz processors, 512 MB of RAM and a vibrant 19" color touch screen that includes a full keyboard and displays up to 60 lines of code. Within the control, advanced EIA/ISO G-code as well as intuitive MAZATROL conversational programming languages support a full range of programming options directly on the machine, while the MAZATROL TWINS function enables use of Solid MAZATROL, Virtual Machining and Cutting Adviser through SMOOTH Cam Ai, and centralized storage and file management through SMOOTH Project Manager.

Every machine is backed by Mazak MPower Complete Customer Care, the industry’s most comprehensive machine support program. Users can easily access their accounts through Mazak’s convenient online service portal for single-source support right at their fingertips, including ordering parts, registering for technical training, submitting service requests, 700 spindle variations for rebuilding and more. Additionally, Mazak Capital Equipment Financing (MCEF) allows shops to easily move their manufacturing forward with one-stop, factory-direct financing on Mazak equipment.