Mazak Turning Machines Feature Three Turrets for High-Volume Production at EASTEC 2025!

At EASTEC 2025, Mazak Corporation is showcasing its HQR-200/3 and HQR-250/3 NEO turning machines, which feature a three-turret machine configuration designed to optimize high-volume part processing and cycle-time balance. These machines are engineered to provide precision, efficiency, and versatility for a wide range of metal cutting applications, making them an excellent choice for shops requiring “done-in-one” part processing.

The HQR NEO Series machines are equipped with two spindles and three turrets—two upper turrets and one lower turret—allowing for continuous, high-volume throughput in single setups. The drum-style turrets are designed to hold 12 or 16 tool positions, with rotary tool capability. In some configurations, the machine can have up to 48 tools (16 tools per station or 12 tools per station), with all stations capable of live tool operations, significantly improving tool change speeds when compared to traditional carousel-type tool changers.

The HQR-200/3 and HQR-250/3 NEO machines can handle bar sizes up to 4 inches in diameter for the main spindles, and 2.5 inches for the second spindles. This versatility allows the machines to go beyond the capabilities of Swiss-style turning machines, making them ideal for shops looking to process larger, more complex parts.

The HQR-200/3 NEO and HQR-250/3 NEO are equipped with high-speed spindles. The main turning spindles on both machines can reach up to 5,000 rpm (HQR-200/3 NEO) and 4,000 rpm (HQR-250/3 NEO), while the upper and lower turrets provide 6,000 rpm rotating tool speed for increased flexibility and cutting efficiency. The third turret can operate with either the left or right-side spindles, balancing the cycle times between the two spindles, which shortens overall part cycle times and enhances productivity.

To support the three-turret functionality, Mazak developed the Mazatrol SmoothG3 control system, which offers an intuitive interface that allows operators to easily manage the turrets for optimal performance. The system includes a clear display for programming, ensuring ease of use and process security. Additionally, the Ai Thermal Shield technology is integrated into the Mazatrol SmoothG3, using machine learning to compensate for temperature fluctuations, ensuring stable cutting conditions throughout the operation.

Mazak has also incorporated an oscillating cutting function in the HQR-200/3 and HQR-250/3 NEO machines to manage chip generation. This feature oscillates the cutting tool, effectively breaking up chips into smaller, more manageable sizes, which helps with chip evacuation and prevents bird nesting issues. The machines also include an end-of-bar remanent control function, which automatically activates a disposal bucket to eject the remaining bar stock from the work envelope, ensuring a smooth transition to the next part.

For further customization and operational efficiency, Mazak offers several optional features for the HQR NEO machines. These include the Mazak Tool Eye for fast and easy tool setup (installed on both the main and second spindle sides) and the Super Flow high-pressure coolant system. The Super Flow system allows for adjustable machine coolant pressure, with up to seven different pressure levels controlled through M-code programming commands. This provides shops with the flexibility to optimize coolant flow for different cutting conditions, ensuring better chip control and tool life.

The Mazak HQR-200/3 and HQR-250/3 NEO turning machines are powerful solutions for manufacturers seeking high-volume production with enhanced precision, efficiency, and versatility. With their three-turret configuration, high-speed spindles, and advanced features like Mazatrol SmoothG3 control and oscillating cutting functions, these machines are designed to handle complex parts in single setups while reducing cycle times and increasing throughput. Mazak’s continued focus on innovation, automation, and customization ensures that shops can meet the growing demands of modern manufacturing with cutting-edge technology.