NEWS

November 16, 2011

Mazak to Display Advanced Multi-Tasking Machine at IMIS

Florence, Kentucky, November 16, 2011 – At the 2011 International Motorsports Industry Show, taking place December 8 – 10 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, Mazak will set up shop in booth 2415 and showcase its advanced INTEGREX i-200ST Multi-Tasking Center that combines machining versatility and high accuracy in a compact design.

The INTEGREX i-200ST features twin spindles, a milling spindle and a lower turret for unbeatable "Done-In-One" complete machining in a single setup. It efficiently and precisely processes mid-size complex components, which is critical in the motorsports industry where victories often measure in hundredths of a second.

As a Level 4 machine in Mazak's Five Levels of Multi-Tasking, the INTEGREX i-200ST turns, drills, taps and mills, while offering off-centerline and full simultaneous 5-axis contouring. Mazak developed its Five Levels of Multi-Tasking as an effective way for manufacturers to determine the best multi-tasking technology for meeting their specific application and process needs.

Both turning spindles on the INTEGREX i-200ST provide equal high performance with spindle speeds of 5,000 rpm and C-axis turning control. And both have a bore capacity measuring 3" (76 mm) in diameter.

For C-axis contouring versatility at either turning spindle, the machine's vertically mounted milling spindle provides 30 hp (22 kW), 12,000 rpm and a rotating B-axis range of -30° to +240°. Mazak's unique roller cam drive for the B-axis ensures higher accuracy and rigidity, while providing zero backlash. A 36-tool (72-tool optional) magazine allows for fast tool changes and provides ample tooling for continuous part processing.

The lower turret on the INTEGREX i-200ST comes with nine turning tools. Moreover, when working in conjunction with the machine's milling spindle, the lower turret can perform at either side of the machine headstock to reduce machining cycle times.

For a compact multi-tasking center, the INTEGREX i-200ST provides an ample Y-axis travel of 9.8" (249 mm) and vertical X-axis of 24.2" (615 mm), with 4.92" (125 mm) below centerline. The machine accommodates parts up to 25.9" (657.8 mm) in diameter. And because its tool magazine is located at the front, machine operators can do programming and tool set up with minimal required movement. Additionally, all machine lubrication points and gages are gathered into a single panel for ease of viewing and maintenance.

In addition to offering productivity improving machine tool solutions to the motorsports industry, Mazak has been a long-time technical sponsor for Penske Racing. The team uses Mazak machines to manufacture various critical car components and maintains "they couldn't do what they do on the racetrack without Mazak machine tool technology." The Mazak logo is present on all of the IndyCar winglets, as well as on the NASCAR Series cars.

American Recovery and Reinvestment Act

Shelton Machinery is reminding customers that the HIRE ACT has been enacted into law, extending the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act’s increased Section 179 benefits to small businesses. The incentives will remain throughout 2010 before being reduced substantially in 2011.

Under the provisions of the HIRE ACT, Section 179 expensing has been increased to a maximum of $250,000 for capital equipment purchases ordered and placed in service in 2010. To qualify for the write-off, a small business is defined as purchasing less than $800,000 in equipment over the course of the year. In 2011, the terms will change to apply only to those businesses purchasing less than $500,000 in equipment and the total maximum deduction will drop to $125,000.

“The government has taken action to encourage small businesses to invest in ways that will allow them to capitalize on the rebounding economy,” says Brian Papke, president of Mazak Corporation. “This provides significant opportunity for manufacturers to embrace refocusing, rediscovering and reinventing their processes, a concept we have supported heavily over the past year.”

At present, 50% bonus depreciation does not apply to 2010 new equipment purchases.

Click here for more information on this Act.