Mazak and Oak Ridge National Lab Unveil Hybrid WAAM Platform

A New Era in Additive Manufacturing for ASEAN Factories \\[10pt] In a significant move that could reshape the manufacturing landscape, Mazak and Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) have partnered to develop a convergent metal additive manufacturing platform. This innovative system integrates Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) with high-precision machining, offering a versatile solution for factories across Southeast Asia. The platform, which will be showcased at IMTS 2026, is designed to handle both high-mix, low-volume and low-mix, high-volume production, making it a game-changer for manufacturers in Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia. \\[10pt] ## The Power of Convergence \\[10pt] At the heart of this new platform are two of Mazak’s VC-Ez 20X Vertical Machining Centers, paired with a Fronius International WAAM unit. This combination allows for seamless integration of additive and subtractive processes, enabling the production of complex parts with shorter lead times and greater design flexibility. For ASEAN factories, this means the ability to produce custom components, rapid tooling, and near-net-shape parts more efficiently, reducing costs and improving overall productivity. \\[10pt] ## Technical Specifications and Benefits \\[10pt] The VC-Ez 20X features a 5-axis rotary/tilt trunnion table, providing precise control over small, intricate parts. With axis travel spanning 31.49 inches in X, 20.07 inches in Y, and 20.07 inches in Z, and a rapid traverse speed of 1,260 ipm, the machine can handle a wide range of workpieces. The compact footprint, 104.21 by 146.32 inches, makes it ideal for integration into existing factory layouts. Programming is made easy with the MAZATROL SmoothEz5 control, which supports both EIA/G-code and conversational programming. \\[10pt] For ASEAN manufacturers, the benefits are clear. The ability to produce high-mix, low-volume parts quickly and cost-effectively is particularly valuable in industries such as automotive, electronics, and medical devices, where customization and rapid prototyping are key. Additionally, the platform's scalability ensures that factories can ramp up production without compromising on quality or efficiency. \\[10pt] ## Industry Trends and Future Prospects \\[10pt] The trend towards hybrid manufacturing systems is gaining momentum globally, and the Mazak-ORNL platform is at the forefront of this movement. Other industry leaders, such as Lincoln Electric and DMG Mori, are also investing in similar technologies, highlighting the growing demand for integrated additive and subtractive manufacturing solutions. For ASEAN factories, adopting these advanced systems can provide a competitive edge, enabling them to meet the diverse needs of their customers while maintaining high standards of quality and efficiency. \\[10pt] ## Conclusion \\[10pt] The new hybrid manufacturing platform from Mazak and ORNL represents a significant step forward in the industrialization of additive manufacturing. For factory buyers in Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia, this technology offers a powerful tool to enhance production capabilities, reduce lead times, and improve overall competitiveness. As the industry continues to evolve, embracing these innovative solutions will be crucial for staying ahead in the global market. \\[10pt]