USED MAZAK VC-500A/5X – 2014

The 2014 Mazak VC-500A/5X is a high-performance simultaneous 5-axis vertical machining center engineered for manufacturers producing complex, high-precision components in a single setup. Developed by Yamazaki Mazak, one of the world’s leading CNC machine tool manufacturers, the VC-500A/5X combines a compact footprint with advanced 5-axis machining capabilities, making it an ideal solution for aerospace, medical, automotive, mold and die, defense, and precision engineering applications. Its integrated trunnion-style rotary table enables complete five-sided and simultaneous 5-axis machining, reducing setup time while improving part accuracy and overall production efficiency.

Built with a rigid cast iron structure and precision roller linear guideways, the Mazak VC-500A/5X delivers excellent thermal stability, high positioning accuracy, and superior surface finishes. The machine provides 21.85 inches (555 mm) of X-axis travel, 19.88 inches (505 mm) of Y-axis travel, and 20.07 inches (510 mm) of Z-axis travel. The integrated trunnion table offers ±110° B-axis tilt and 360° continuous C-axis rotation, allowing complex multi-sided parts to be machined with minimal repositioning. Equipped with a 12,000 RPM CAT 40 spindle powered by a 25 HP (19 kW) motor, the machine is capable of machining aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, alloy steels, cast iron, and composite materials with excellent productivity and precision. Rapid traverse rates of up to 945 IPM (24 m/min) further reduce non-cutting time and improve cycle efficiency.

The 2014 model is commonly equipped with the MAZATROL Matrix 2 CNC Control, supporting both conversational programming and ISO G-code. A standard 30-tool automatic tool changer ensures fast tool changes, while optional 60-tool magazine configurations are available for high-mix production. Common factory options include through-spindle coolant, Renishaw spindle probing, tool measurement systems, chip conveyor, workpiece air blast, dynamic fixture compensation, and simultaneous 5-axis machining software. These features enable manufacturers to reduce setup times while maintaining exceptional machining accuracy.

The Mazak VC-500A/5X is widely used throughout the aerospace, medical, semiconductor, energy, mold and die, and precision manufacturing industries. Typical applications include orthopedic implants, aerospace brackets, impellers, turbine components, precision molds, medical devices, complex housings, and prototype parts requiring multi-axis machining. Its compact design and advanced motion control make it an excellent solution for shops seeking high-end 5-axis capability without the footprint of larger machining centers.

Purchasing a used 2014 Mazak VC-500A/5X provides manufacturers with advanced simultaneous 5-axis machining technology at a significantly lower investment than purchasing a new machine. Mazak machines are recognized worldwide for their outstanding build quality, long service life, dependable CNC controls, and excellent resale value. A properly maintained VC-500A/5X continues to deliver exceptional productivity, accuracy, and machining flexibility, making it one of the most desirable used 5-axis machining centers available.

MAZAK VC-500A/5X – 2014 SPECIFICATIONS

Axis

Specification	Value
Machine Type	Simultaneous 5-Axis Vertical Machining Center
Controlled Axes	X, Y, Z, B, C
X-Axis Travel	21.85 in (555 mm)
Y-Axis Travel	19.88 in (505 mm)
Z-Axis Travel	20.07 in (510 mm)
B-Axis Travel	±110°
C-Axis Travel	360° Continuous

Travels / Work Envelope

Specification	Value
Maximum Workpiece Diameter	19.69 in (500 mm)
Maximum Workpiece Height	12.0 in (305 mm)
Spindle Nose to Table	4.53–24.61 in (115–625 mm)
Maximum Workpiece Weight	441 lbs (200 kg)

Table

Specification	Value
Table Diameter	19.69 in (500 mm)
Table Type	Integrated Trunnion Rotary Table
Maximum Table Load	441 lbs (200 kg)
Table Surface Height	26.97 in (685 mm)

Spindle

Specification	Value
Spindle Taper	CAT 40
Maximum Spindle Speed	12,000 RPM
Spindle Motor	25 HP (19 kW)
Drive Type	Direct-Drive Spindle

Tool Changer

Specification	Value
Tool Changer Type	Automatic Tool Changer
Standard Tool Capacity	30 Tools
Optional Capacity	60 Tools
Maximum Tool Diameter	3.15 in (80 mm)
Maximum Tool Diameter (Adjacent Pocket Empty)	4.92 in (125 mm)
Maximum Tool Length	10.23 in (260 mm)
Maximum Tool Weight	17.6 lbs (8 kg)

CNC Control

Specification	Value
CNC Control	MAZATROL Matrix 2
Programming	Mazatrol Conversational & ISO G-Code
Simultaneous 5-Axis Machining	Standard
Dynamic Compensation	Standard
Ethernet / USB	Standard

Coolant / Chip Management

Specification	Value
Coolant System	Flood Coolant
Through-Spindle Coolant	Optional (213 PSI)
Chip Conveyor	Standard or Optional (Configuration Dependent)
Renishaw Probe	Optional
Workpiece Air Blast	Optional

Power Requirements

Specification	Value
Electrical Supply	220V / 440V, 3-Phase
Connected Load	Approx. 35 kVA
Pneumatic Supply	80–100 PSI (5.5–6.9 bar)

Dimensions

Specification	Value
Machine Footprint	118.5 × 90 × 118 in (3,010 × 2,286 × 2,997 mm)
Machine Weight	Approx. 11,000 lbs (4,990 kg)

General Information

Specification	Value
Manufacturer	Yamazaki Mazak
Model	VC-500A/5X
Year	2014
Machine Category	Simultaneous 5-Axis Vertical Machining Center
Materials Machined	Aluminum, Steel, Stainless Steel, Titanium, Cast Iron, Composite Materials
Typical Applications	Aerospace Components, Medical Implants, Mold & Die, Precision Tooling, Impellers, Complex Multi-Sided Parts

HOW MUCH DOES A USED MAZAK VC-500A/5X – 2014 COST?

A used 2014 Mazak VC-500A/5X typically sells for $140,000 to $240,000 USD, depending on spindle hours, machine condition, CNC control configuration, tooling package, and installed options such as through-spindle coolant, Renishaw probing, chip conveyor, 5-axis software, and additional tool magazine capacity. Machines with documented maintenance records and production-ready accessories generally command higher resale values due to their reliability and immediate production capability.

Before purchasing a used Mazak VC-500A/5X, buyers should inspect spindle condition, B- and C-axis accuracy, rotary table backlash, guideways, lubrication system, automatic tool changer, probing systems, and overall machine geometry. A properly maintained 2014 Mazak VC-500A/5X provides outstanding long-term value by combining compact 5-axis capability, high-speed machining, and proven Mazak reliability, making it an excellent investment for manufacturers producing complex, high-precision components.

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MAZAK VC-500A/5X VS MAZAK VARIAXIS i-500 – WHICH ONE TO BUY?

The Mazak VC-500A/5X and Mazak VARIAXIS i-500 are advanced 5-axis CNC vertical machining centers designed for manufacturers requiring simultaneous multi-axis machining, exceptional precision, and high productivity. Both machines are widely used in the aerospace, medical, automotive, mold making, defense, and precision engineering industries. They are capable of machining complex components in a single setup, reducing cycle times while improving dimensional accuracy and surface finish. The primary difference between the two models is that the VARIAXIS i-500 is a newer-generation machine featuring updated CNC technology, improved spindle performance, enhanced thermal stability, and faster machining capability compared with the earlier VC-500A/5X.

The Mazak VC-500A/5X is a highly capable 5-axis machining center designed for producing impellers, turbine blades, molds, medical implants, aerospace brackets, and other complex precision components. Its trunnion-style table allows simultaneous five-axis machining while maintaining excellent rigidity and repeatability.

The VARIAXIS i-500 builds upon this proven platform with higher rapid traverse rates, improved spindle acceleration, enhanced machine rigidity, and more advanced control features that increase productivity and machining efficiency.

Both machines deliver outstanding precision and flexibility. The VC-500A/5X remains an excellent choice for manufacturers seeking reliable 5-axis machining, while the VARIAXIS i-500 is better suited for shops requiring the latest technology, faster cycle times, and improved automation capabilities.

For businesses purchasing a used 5-axis machining center, the Mazak VC-500A/5X offers excellent value, while the VARIAXIS i-500 provides greater productivity for high-demand manufacturing environments.

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MAZAK VC-500A/5X SPINDLE NOT TURNING – CAUSES AND TROUBLESHOOTING

If the spindle on a Mazak VC-500A/5X does not rotate, the issue may be caused by spindle drive faults, CNC control alarms, electrical failures, lubrication problems, cooling system faults, machine safety interlocks, or rotary axis synchronization issues. Proper troubleshooting helps identify the root cause quickly and minimizes machine downtime.

Begin by checking the CNC control for active alarms. Emergency stop activation, door interlock faults, spindle drive alarms, servo errors, lubrication warnings, thermal overload conditions, automatic tool changer faults, or rotary axis alarms can prevent spindle operation. Resolve all alarms before attempting to restart the spindle.

Inspect the spindle drive system for electrical issues. Loose wiring connections, damaged encoder cables, faulty spindle amplifiers, blown fuses, spindle motor overload conditions, or overheating can prevent spindle rotation. Verify spindle lubrication systems, spindle cooling units, compressed air supply, coolant circulation, and machine power because these systems are essential for reliable spindle operation.

Review the CNC program to ensure correct spindle commands have been programmed. Missing M03 or M04 commands, incorrect spindle speed settings, spindle orientation commands, incomplete tool changes, or rotary axis positioning errors may prevent spindle startup.

If the spindle begins rotating but immediately stops, inspect spindle bearings, tool holders, spindle taper cleanliness, drawbar operation, and cutting loads. Excessive vibration, overheating, unusual spindle noise, or poor tool retention may indicate bearing wear or mechanical damage requiring service.

Routine spindle inspections, lubrication maintenance, coolant management, and scheduled preventive maintenance help reduce unexpected spindle failures and maximize machine reliability.

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MAZAK VC-500A/5X MAINTENANCE AND PREVENTIVE CARE GUIDE

The Mazak VC-500A/5X is a precision 5-axis machining center designed for continuous production of complex components. Because of its simultaneous five-axis capability, trunnion table, and high-speed spindle, preventive maintenance is essential for maintaining machining accuracy, surface finish quality, and long-term machine reliability.

Daily maintenance should include removing chips from the machining enclosure, spindle taper, trunnion table, rotary axes, automatic tool changer, guideway covers, and chip conveyor. Operators should inspect coolant levels, coolant concentration, lubrication systems, compressed air supply, spindle condition, tool holders, and cutting tools before beginning production.

Weekly maintenance should include inspecting coolant pumps, chip conveyors, lubrication units, spindle cooling systems, automatic tool changer operation, rotary axis mechanisms, electrical cabinet filters, and air preparation units. Chips should be removed from rotary axis covers and trunnion areas to prevent contamination and positioning errors.

Monthly inspections should focus on spindle runout, tool retention force, trunnion axis accuracy, ball screws, linear guideways, spindle bearings, encoder cables, lubrication lines, electrical connections, coolant filtration systems, and machine leveling. Machine geometry and rotary axis calibration should also be verified to maintain five-axis machining accuracy.

Additional preventive maintenance includes monitoring spindle vibration, checking axis backlash, inspecting spindle bearings, replacing worn filters, servicing lubrication systems, verifying rotary axis alignment, and maintaining detailed maintenance records. Early identification of wear helps prevent costly repairs and production interruptions.

A structured preventive maintenance program extends spindle life, improves machining accuracy, enhances surface finish quality, and ensures the Mazak VC-500A/5X continues to deliver dependable five-axis machining performance.

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FAQ

What is the Mazak VC-500A/5X?

The Mazak VC-500A/5X is a high-performance 5-axis CNC vertical machining center designed for simultaneous multi-axis machining of complex precision components. It features a trunnion-style rotary table, high-speed spindle, advanced CNC control, automatic tool changer, and rigid machine construction to provide excellent accuracy and productivity.

The machine is widely used in aerospace, medical, automotive, defense, mold making, precision engineering, and energy industries. It is capable of producing turbine blades, impellers, molds, aerospace brackets, orthopedic implants, complex housings, and other intricate components requiring five-axis machining.

Its ability to complete multiple machining operations in a single setup reduces cycle times, improves dimensional accuracy, minimizes manual handling, and delivers superior surface finishes for demanding manufacturing applications.

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What are the most common problems with the Mazak VC-500A/5X?

The most common problems with the Mazak VC-500A/5X include spindle alarms, automatic tool changer faults, rotary axis positioning errors, lubrication system warnings, servo drive faults, encoder failures, coolant contamination, spindle orientation issues, drawbar problems, tool retention faults, electrical communication errors, and axis calibration issues.

Machines operating in continuous five-axis production environments may also experience spindle bearing wear, rotary axis backlash, thermal expansion effects, trunnion alignment issues, coolant contamination, and normal mechanical wear over time. Poor lubrication, contaminated coolant, worn tooling, excessive cutting loads, and delayed preventive maintenance can contribute to these problems.

Routine spindle inspections, lubrication servicing, coolant management, rotary axis calibration, machine geometry verification, electrical inspections, and scheduled preventive maintenance help minimize downtime and ensure the Mazak VC-500A/5X continues to provide the precision, reliability, and productivity expected from a premium 5-axis machining center.