1986 MAZAK VC500C VERTICAL MACHINING CENTER

Technical Description

The 1986 Mazak VC500C is a 3-axis vertical machining center from Mazak's Vertical Center series, designed for versatile milling of small to medium-sized components in job shops, die and mold operations, and precision manufacturing environments. Note: a 1986 production date represents early production for the VC500C series; prospective buyers should confirm the control type and configuration via the machine serial number. The VC500C provides axis travels of 19.7 inches in X, 17.7 inches in Y, and 20.1 inches in Z, with the generous Z-axis stroke making it well suited for deep-cavity mold and die work as well as tall mechanical components. The spindle delivers 15 HP continuously through a CAT-40 taper and reaches a maximum speed of 8,000 RPM, balancing cutting force for steel and cast iron with the surface speed needed for aluminum alloys. At approximately 8,800 pounds, the VC500C provides solid structural rigidity for maintaining dimensional accuracy across sustained production cycles. An automatic tool changer enables complex multi-operation programs to be completed in a single setup, reducing operator intervention and non-productive time. The machine is equipped with the Mazatrol M-Plus CNC, Mazak's conversational programming platform that allows operators to generate programs interactively at the control panel without requiring G-code expertise. The VC500C is a practical and reliable three-axis VMC for shops requiring proven mechanical integrity, a capable work envelope, and straightforward Mazatrol programming in a mid-size vertical machining center.