Looking for used machine : What to go for and what to avoid?

[cj133]

Any thoughts on Mazak's controls?
It concerns me that they're conversational being I'm using Fusion360 to generate G code. Will this limit what I can do similar to the way Prototrak does?


Also, RS232................how big of a nightmare is that to interface with? I know I just need a PC with a serial port, but, is this going to be a constant annoyance?


I understand Mazak's are awesome machines, but how much of a headache am I considering taking on buying a 18-20 year old machine, assuming everything is in good shape?

 

[carbonbl]

Any thoughts on Mazak's controls?
It concerns me that they're conversational being I'm using Fusion360 to generate G code. Will this limit what I can do similar to the way Prototrak does?


Also, RS232................how big of a nightmare is that to interface with? I know I just need a PC with a serial port, but, is this going to be a constant annoyance?


I understand Mazak's are awesome machines, but how much of a headache am I considering taking on buying a 18-20 year old machine, assuming everything is in good shape?

Regarding RS232, I'd recommend getting a Calmotion or other similar RS232 file interface box. Once it's set up you can transfer files by USB stick or ftp connection via Ethernet (wifi, even). You don't have to worry about serial cable configuration/length, maintaining a PC with an RS232 interface and/or finding a USB-> RS232 adapter that works. The downtime and headache this saves, plus removing the need to maintain a "transfer PC" more than pay for the cost of the unit itself IMO. It's been a huge help on my old Fadal and I'm considering getting one for my Mazak lathe even though the Mazatrol programs on that are shorter and simple to photograph for archival purposes.

I love 2-axis lathe Mazatrol but have never used mill Mazatrol. For my process and parts, I'd be very very resistant to getting a mill controller that could not accept G-code output from CAM, especially if the conversational control is 15+ years old. If your parts are on the simple side (and will stay that way with business growth) it may be fine.

 

[tbunch]

I dont know if this is what you are looking for as i'm new to the manufacturing industry, but i do have a working Bridgeport VMC22 for sale. It was made in 1995. Let me know. I am located in northern Illinois

 

[Bobw]

Any thoughts on Mazak's controls?
It concerns me that they're conversational

I'm not a huge fan of the conversational on the mills. Awesome for doing simple stuff,
absolute time consuming night mare when you start getting complicated. 2 axis lathe
though... Can't beat it, I won't G-code a lathe ever again in my life if I can help it.

I'm pretty sure all the controls mid 90's and up had EIA/G-code as standard. That would be
the M+. M32 and older, I believe it was optional. I wouldn't buy a mill without it.

but how much of a headache am I considering taking on buying a 18-20 year old machine, assuming everything is in good shape?

I guess they are all still supported, Mits supports the control. I know the lathes live FOREVER..
My Mazak is 34 years old now, and she's sitting over there making parts.

In my experience with one Mazak mill. It RARELY broke, years and years trouble free, but when
she goes down, it can get spendy.

 

[cj133]

I dont know if this is what you are looking for as i'm new to the manufacturing industry, but i do have a working Bridgeport VMC22 for sale. It was made in 1995. Let me know. I am located in northern Illinois

Hi,

No I'm sorry that's not what we're looking for.

Thanks for commenting.