Mazak and Oak Ridge Lab Unveil Revolutionary WAAM Platform

A Game-Changer for ASEAN Manufacturing \\[10pt] In a significant move, Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and Mazak have joined forces to develop the VC-Ez WAAM Additive Manufacturing Platform. This innovative solution is set to revolutionize the way factories in Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia operate, offering a seamless integration of metal additive manufacturing and high-precision machining. \\[10pt] The VC-Ez WAAM platform, which will be showcased at IMTS 2026, combines two Mazak VC-Ez 20X Vertical Machining Centers with a Fronius International Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) system. This integration allows manufacturers to produce high-mix, low-volume parts with shorter lead times, while also maintaining the capability for low-mix, high-volume production. \\[10pt] For factories in Southeast Asia, this means a significant boost in flexibility and efficiency. In Thailand, where the automotive and electronics industries are booming, the ability to quickly produce complex parts can accelerate product development and reduce time-to-market. Similarly, in Vietnam, where the mold and die industry is rapidly growing, the platform's precision and speed can enhance the quality and competitiveness of local products. \\[10pt] In Indonesia, where the demand for customized and specialized parts is on the rise, the VC-Ez WAAM platform can help manufacturers meet these needs more effectively. The system's large-scale 3D printing capabilities, using electric arcs and standard welding wire, offer a cost-effective and efficient alternative to traditional manufacturing methods. This is particularly beneficial for industries like food packaging and medical devices, where customization and precision are critical. \\[10pt] In Malaysia, the platform can support the semiconductor and electronics sectors by enabling rapid tool production and structural repair. The automated palletized transfer system ensures repeatable workpiece fixturing and efficient production, making it ideal for high-mix, low-volume operations. \\[10pt] The VC-Ez 20X machines, equipped with MAZATROL SmoothEz5 CNCs, provide a user-friendly interface for programming and operation. The machines' compact footprint and advanced features, such as 3+2 or full 5-axis machining, make them well-suited for the WAAM system. With axis travels measuring 31.49 inches in X, 20.07 inches in Y, and 20.07 inches in Z, and a rapid traverse rate of 1,260 inches per minute, these machines can handle a wide range of applications. \\[10pt] For factory buyers in ASEAN, the VC-Ez WAAM platform represents a strategic investment that can drive innovation and improve operational efficiency. By integrating additive and subtractive processes, manufacturers can achieve greater design freedom, faster production cycles, and higher quality output. This technology is not just a step forward; it's a leap into the future of manufacturing. \\[10pt] As the region continues to grow and diversify, the VC-Ez WAAM platform offers a robust and flexible solution that can help ASEAN factories stay competitive and meet the demands of a rapidly evolving market. Whether you're in Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, or Malaysia, this platform is a game-changer that can transform your production capabilities and drive your business forward.