Machine Comparison
Mazak VARIAXIS i-300 vs Mazak VARIAXIS i-300 AWC
Yamazaki Mazak vs Yamazaki Mazak · 5-Axis Machining Centers
Summary
The Mazak VARIAXIS i-300 and Mazak VARIAXIS i-300 AWC are both from Yamazaki Mazak's 5-axis machining centers lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the Yamazaki Mazak ecosystem. These machines are closely matched across most specifications, making the decision more about specific feature priorities, dealer support, and your existing shop ecosystem than raw spec advantages. Both machines are proven performers in production environments and represent solid investments for shops in the market for a 5-axis machining center.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Mazak VARIAXIS i-300 | Mazak VARIAXIS i-300 AWC |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 350 mm (13.78 in) | 350 mm (13.78 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 550 mm (21.65 in) | 550 mm (21.65 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 510 mm (20.08 in) | 510 mm (20.08 in) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 12,000 RPM (18K / 25K / 30K RPM optional) | 12,000 RPM (18K / 25K / 30K optional) |
| Spindle Power | 22 kW / 30 hp (40% ED); 15 kW continuous | 22 kW / 30 hp (40% ED) |
| Spindle Torque | 72 Nm (53 ft-lb) @ 40% ED | 72 Nm (53 ft-lb) at 40% ED |
| Tool Capacity | 145 tools standard (expandable to 505) | 145 standard (expandable to 505) |
| Rapid Traverse | 60 m/min (2,362 ipm) on X, Y, Z | 60 m/min (2,362 ipm) on X, Y, Z |
| Control | MAZATROL SmoothAi CNC | MAZATROL SmoothAi CNC |
| A Axis Tilt | -120° to +30° (150° total) | -120 to +30 degrees (150 total) |
| C Axis Rotation | 360° continuous | 360 degrees continuous |
| Rotary Indexing | 0.0001° increments (A and C axes) | 0.0001 degree increments (A and C) |
| Spindle Taper | BIG-PLUS BT40 (HSK-A63 / HSK-F63 optional) | BIG-PLUS BT40 (HSK-A63 / HSK-F63 optional) |
| Awc Capacity | 32 workpieces (expandable to 40) | 32 workpieces (expandable to 40) |
| Price Range | $350,000 - $550,000 | $350,000 - $550,000 |
Advantages
Mazak VARIAXIS i-300
- Backed by Yamazaki Mazak's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Medical device manufacturers running lights-out production of implants, surgical instruments, and orthopedic components
Mazak VARIAXIS i-300 AWC
- Backed by Yamazaki Mazak's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Medical device manufacturers running lights-out production of implants and surgical instruments
Verdict
This is a close matchup. The Mazak VARIAXIS i-300 and Mazak VARIAXIS i-300 AWC trade advantages across different specifications, making neither a clear winner on paper alone. Your decision should come down to practical factors: which dealer is closer, which control system your operators already know, what tooling ecosystem you're invested in, and which machine's specific strengths match your highest-volume work. Get quotes on both, run test cuts with your actual parts if possible, and factor in long-term service and support costs.