Yamazaki Mazak has unveiled a major upgrade to its European manufacturing facility, fully automating its Sheet Metal Department with two new 6 kW OPTIPLEX 3015 NEO 2D Fiber laser machines. These cutting-edge systems—used to produce components for Mazak’s UK-made machine tools—deliver 40% faster cycle times and superior cut quality compared to previous models. Notably, Mazak remains the only UK machine tool manufacturer that integrates its own equipment into production.
Precision Engineering with Adaptive Beam Control
The OPTIPLEX machines feature Mazak Beam Shaping Technology, allowing operators to adjust laser parameters dynamically for optimal performance. This innovation enables stable cutting of 50mm-thick materials—four times more reliably than conventional lasers—while improving bevel angles by over 80%. Such precision enhancements translate to fewer rejects and higher throughput, reinforcing Mazak’s reputation for high-accuracy manufacturing.
Robotic Automation Drives Unmanned Production
Replacing three Hyper gear 510s and one CO2 laser, the new fiber laser setup is supported by a Mazak CSTD Double Tower system for automated sheet feeding and a robotized Smart Manufacturing Cell for part sorting. The towers store raw materials and scrap efficiently, while multiple conveyors minimize idle time, enabling 24/7 unmanned operations. This leap in automation ensures consistent output with minimal manual intervention.
Sustainability Gains: 67% Energy Savings
Beyond productivity gains, Mazak’s upgrade aligns with its sustainability goals. The fiber lasers consume 67% less power than the CO2 machines they replaced, significantly reducing the Worcester plant’s carbon footprint. The shift underscores Mazak’s commitment to eco-efficient manufacturing without compromising performance.
New European Customer Portal Launched
Alongside the hardware upgrades, Mazak has debuted a dedicated European customer website, streamlining access to technical support, machine specifications, and service updates. This digital initiative aims to enhance client engagement and simplify procurement for the continent’s manufacturing sector.
With this investment, Mazak reinforces its leadership in automated, sustainable precision manufacturing, setting a new benchmark for the industry.
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