MAZAK VC-500A/5X 5-AXIS
USED MAZAK VC-500A/5X 5-AXIS
The MAZAK VC-500A/5X is a high-performance 5-axis vertical machining center designed for complex, multi-sided, and simultaneous 5-axis machining applications. The machine combines Mazak’s rigid vertical machining platform with a fully integrated rotary-tilting table, allowing manufacturers to machine multiple faces and complex contours in a single setup. This significantly reduces setup time, improves positional accuracy, and increases overall production efficiency.
The VC-500A/5X is designed for manufacturers requiring high precision and flexibility when producing complex components. The simultaneous 5-axis capability allows the cutting tool to maintain an optimal angle against the workpiece, making the machine particularly effective for contoured surfaces, deep cavities, impellers, aerospace structures, medical components, molds, dies, and precision industrial parts.
The machine is typically equipped with a high-speed spindle, automatic tool changer, CNC-controlled rotary-tilting table, and advanced Mazak CNC technology. Its rigid construction provides excellent vibration control during both heavy roughing and high-speed finishing operations.
Unlike conventional 3-axis machining centers that often require multiple setups, the MAZAK VC-500A/5X 5-Axis can complete complex components with fewer repositioning operations. This helps reduce fixture costs, minimize cumulative setup errors, and improve consistency from part to part.
The VC-500A/5X remains a valuable choice in the used CNC machinery market for manufacturers seeking the flexibility and productivity of a true 5-axis machining center without the capital cost of new equipment.
MAZAK VC-500A/5X – AXIS
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Machine Type | 5-Axis Vertical Machining Center |
| X-Axis Travel | Approx. 19.69″ |
| Y-Axis Travel | Approx. 19.69″ |
| Z-Axis Travel | Approx. 19.69″ |
| A-Axis Travel | Approximately +30° to -120° |
| C-Axis Travel | 360° Continuous |
| Simultaneous 5-Axis Machining | Yes |
| Rotary Table | Integrated Tilting Rotary Table |
MAZAK VC-500A/5X – AXIS TRAVELS / WORK ENVELOPE
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | Approx. 19.69″ |
| Y-Axis Travel | Approx. 19.69″ |
| Z-Axis Travel | Approx. 19.69″ |
| Rotary Table Diameter | Approx. 19.69″ |
| Maximum Workpiece Diameter | Approx. 19.69″ |
| Maximum Workpiece Height | Approx. 15.75″ |
| Maximum Workpiece Weight | Configuration Dependent |
MAZAK VC-500A/5X – ROTARY TABLE
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Table Type | CNC Rotary-Tilting Table |
| Table Diameter | Approx. 19.69″ |
| A-Axis | Tilting Axis |
| C-Axis | Continuous Rotary Axis |
| Rotary Positioning | High-Precision CNC Controlled |
| Simultaneous 5-Axis Capability | Yes |
| Multi-Sided Machining | Excellent |
MAZAK VC-500A/5X – SPINDLE
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Spindle Speed | Configuration Dependent |
| Typical Maximum Speed | 12,000 RPM – 18,000 RPM |
| Spindle Motor Power | Approx. 30 HP |
| Spindle Taper | CAT 40 / BT40 |
| Spindle Type | High-Speed Precision Spindle |
| High-Speed Machining Capability | Excellent |
| Through-Spindle Coolant | Available |
MAZAK VC-500A/5X – TOOL CHANGER
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Standard Tool Capacity | Approx. 30 Tools |
| Optional Tool Capacity | Expanded Magazine Available |
| Tool Changer Type | Automatic Tool Changer |
| Tool Selection | Random Access |
| Tool Management | Available |
| Long Tool Capability | Configuration Dependent |
MAZAK VC-500A/5X – CONTROL SYSTEM
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| CNC Control | Mazak CNC Control |
| Programming Format | Mazatrol Conversational & EIA/ISO |
| 5-Axis Interpolation | Standard |
| Tool Life Management | Available |
| Work Coordinate Management | Standard |
| Advanced Diagnostics | Included |
| High-Speed Machining Functions | Available |
MAZAK VC-500A/5X – COOLANT / CHIP MANAGEMENT
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Flood Coolant System | Standard |
| Through-Spindle Coolant | Available |
| High-Pressure Coolant | Optional |
| Chip Conveyor | Available |
| Coolant Filtration | Available |
| Automatic Chip Removal | Available |
MAZAK VC-500A/5X – PROBING & AUTOMATION OPTIONS
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Renishaw Work Probe | Available |
| Tool Measurement System | Available |
| Automatic Tool Setter | Available |
| 5-Axis Calibration Systems | Available |
| Robotic Integration | Available |
| Lights-Out Manufacturing Capability | Configuration Dependent |
MAZAK VC-500A/5X – POWER REQUIREMENTS
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 220V / 440V / 480V |
| Electrical Requirement | 3 Phase |
| Air Requirement | Shop Air Required |
| Connected Load | Configuration Dependent |
MAZAK VC-500A/5X – DIMENSIONS
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Machine Construction | Rigid Vertical Machining Center |
| Machine Weight | Configuration Dependent |
| Installation Type | Industrial Foundation Recommended |
| Production Class | High-Precision 5-Axis Machining Center |
MAZAK VC-500A/5X – GENERAL INFORMATION
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Mazak Corporation |
| Model | VC-500A/5X |
| Machine Type | 5-Axis Vertical Machining Center |
| Primary Application | Complex Precision Machining |
| Country of Origin | Japan |
| Production Environment | Low, Medium, and High Volume Manufacturing |
INDUSTRIES THAT USE MAZAK VC-500A/5X 5-AXIS
The MAZAK VC-500A/5X is widely used in aerospace, automotive, medical, defense, energy, mold and die, robotics, and precision contract manufacturing industries. Aerospace manufacturers use 5-axis machining to produce structural components, brackets, housings, turbine-related parts, and complex contoured components.
Medical manufacturers utilize the machine for orthopedic components, surgical instruments, implant tooling, and medical equipment parts. The ability to machine complex geometries in fewer setups is particularly valuable when manufacturing components requiring tight dimensional control.
The mold and die industry benefits from simultaneous 5-axis machining when producing complex cavities, cores, contoured surfaces, and intricate tooling. Automotive and motorsport manufacturers commonly use the machine for prototype components, complex housings, performance parts, and production components.
Additional applications include impellers, blisks, turbine components, robotic parts, energy equipment, and custom-engineered precision components.
TYPICAL PARTS MAZAK VC-500A/5X CAN PRODUCE
The VC-500A/5X can produce complex components that would otherwise require multiple setups on conventional 3-axis or 4-axis machines. Typical parts include aerospace brackets, impellers, turbine blades, molds, dies, medical components, engine parts, transmission housings, and complex industrial components.
The integrated rotary-tilting table allows the machine to access multiple faces of a workpiece without manual repositioning. This helps reduce setup time and improves dimensional consistency.
Simultaneous 5-axis machining is especially valuable for components with compound curves, deep cavities, angled surfaces, and complex contours. The machine is also well suited for prototypes and short-run production where flexibility and reduced setup time are important.
WHY CHOOSE MAZAK VC-500A/5X 5-AXIS
The primary advantage of the MAZAK VC-500A/5X is its ability to perform complex machining operations in fewer setups. This reduces fixture requirements, minimizes cumulative positioning errors, and improves overall part accuracy.
The simultaneous 5-axis capability allows the cutting tool to approach the workpiece from multiple directions while maintaining an optimized cutting angle. This can improve surface finishes, reduce tool interference, and increase machining efficiency on complex geometries.
Mazak’s reputation for machine rigidity, precision, and long-term reliability makes the VC-500A/5X an attractive option for manufacturers requiring advanced machining capability.
For shops looking to expand into complex 5-axis manufacturing, the VC-500A/5X provides a powerful combination of flexibility, precision, and production capability.
WHY BUY USED MAZAK VC-500A/5X 5-AXIS
Purchasing a used MAZAK VC-500A/5X allows manufacturers to obtain advanced 5-axis machining technology at a significantly lower investment than purchasing a new machine.
The machine can provide immediate access to simultaneous 5-axis machining capabilities, allowing manufacturers to produce complex components that may not be practical on conventional 3-axis equipment.
Used machines may include valuable options such as probing systems, through-spindle coolant, high-speed spindles, expanded tool magazines, tool measurement systems, and advanced 5-axis control functions.
Mazak machines are known for their durable construction and long service life. A properly maintained VC-500A/5X can continue to provide excellent precision and productivity for many years.
HOW MUCH DOES A USED MAZAK VC-500A/5X COST?
A used MAZAK VC-500A/5X typically sells for approximately $75,000 to $175,000, depending on the machine’s year, condition, spindle hours, CNC control, 5-axis rotary table condition, installed options, tooling package, and maintenance history. Well-maintained late-model machines with low operating hours, advanced probing, high-speed spindles, expanded tool capacity, and through-spindle coolant can command prices at the upper end of this range. Recent market listings include VC-500A/5X machines from 2018–2020, while a 2022 example has been listed at approximately $170,000.
Older or heavily used machines may be available for less, while exceptional machines with low hours and premium options can exceed the typical range. Buyers should pay particular attention to the condition of the rotary and tilting axes, including backlash, positioning accuracy, rotary bearings, and 5-axis calibration, as repairs to these systems can significantly affect the machine’s overall value.
In addition to the purchase price, buyers should budget for transportation, rigging, installation, calibration, tooling, operator training, and commissioning. For manufacturers seeking advanced simultaneous 5-axis machining capability, a used MAZAK VC-500A/5X can provide substantial savings compared with purchasing a new 5-axis machining center while still delivering excellent flexibility, precision, and production capability.
