Increase the productivity of your Mazak CNC machine, extend spindle times and reduce your dependence on skilled labor - with the SherpaLoader® automation solutions from MAFU-SHERPA CNC Automation. Transform your QuickTurn lathes, Integrex multitasking centers and VCN machining centers into modern, autonomous production systems - without complex MAZATROL integration, space-saving and intuitive to operate. An ideal alternative to Mazak Turn Assist and MA-Automation.
How it worksThe SherpaLoader® systems enable continuous loading, even at night or on weekends. This keeps your Mazak machine running while your team takes on more value-adding tasks - without any additional working time.
With minimal personnel deployment and reduced manual intervention, you cut costs, avoid errors and ensure high system availability - a clear advantage in times of a shortage of skilled workers.
Precise robot handling with modern sensor technology guarantees consistent quality - regardless of batch size or operating personnel. Rejects are minimized and standards remain consistently high.
Thanks to fast changeover and flexible workpiece recognition, you can also automate changing parts economically and open up new market opportunities.
The SherpaLoader® offers an end-to-end automation solution for all Mazak series - from compact QuickTurn lathes to large Integrex multitasking centers and VCN machining centers. Four core functions make the SherpaLoader® the ideal alternative to the Mazak Turn Assist and MA series.
Intelligently recognizes workpieces without rigid grids or stops. This makes loading more flexible and reduces set-up times.
Whether SpaceBox, Table Trolleys or Pallets - we integrate the right solution into your existing infrastructure.
It is controlled via a 17-inch touchscreen with intuitive dialog guidance - quick to learn and safe to operate.
A key competitive advantage is the short changeover time. Workpieces can be changed in less than five minutes. A short changeover time means more production time.
The SherpaLoader® enables the simple and economical automation of even older Mazak machines. Compatible with all current models, QuickTurn, Integrex and VCN models can be integrated without extensive conversions. The existing controls are retained, minimizing the time, costs and risks of retrofitting.
None of the MAZATROL programming needs to be adapted - the SherpaLoader® is simply integrated via standard interfaces such as M functions, Profibus or Ethernet/IP.
Even machines without automation preparation can be easily expanded. The modular design of the SherpaLoader® allows it to be adapted precisely to the available space and production requirements.
With the SherpaLoader® you get a more compact, more flexible and often more cost-effective solution than the manufacturer's own systems - with the same or even greater functionality.
With the SherpaLoader®, Mazak lathes can be automated in a wide range of applications - from single part production to series production. Automation increases productivity, improves quality and relieves your personnel. Some examples of possible applications of the SherpaLoader® for selected Mazak series are presented below:
Flexible material feed for small and large workpieces, even for non-stackable parts. Ideal for small batch sizes and combined Machining of shafts and inserts. Unloading possible with bar feed. Compatible with Smart, Nexus and Smooth control systems.
Retrofittable automation for different workpiece sizes and processing types. The SherpaLoader® also makes small batch sizes economical, supports unloading with bar feeding and can be integrated to save space.
High production turning capacity with double turret, pendulum machining on main and counter spindles and optimized material flow. Free access during set-up and material supply outside the machine prevent downtimes and increase spindle time.
All standard Mazak milling machines can be flexibly and efficiently automated with the SherpaLoader®. Whether light or heavy workpieces: The systems increase spindle time, reduce set-up time and ensure consistent quality. The possible applications of the SherpaLoader® for the various Mazak series are described below:
MAFU-SHERPA robot automation for Mazak milling machines offers a versatile solution for flexible material feeding - for both small and large workpieces. Loading takes place via the work or side door, while access to the tool magazine and chip conveyor remains unrestricted. An optional turning station can be integrated for rear side machining, allowing machining processes to be carried out in a single pass. Multiple clamping is possible on the large machine table, allowing several parts to be machined at the same time. Stackable and non-stackable workpieces are handled reliably. Connection is made via the Mazak EthernetIP interface and the associated automation package - even for machines without automation preparation. Only mechanical Clamping Devices are required for workpiece clamping; hydraulic or pneumatic systems are not needed.
The Mazak Integrex series with its combination of turning and milling machining offers ideal conditions for comprehensive automation. The SherpaLoader® makes optimum use of the generous space available and the many tool positions to fully automate complex turning-milling cycles. The strength of this combination is particularly evident in Shafts, flanges and rotationally symmetrical parts with additional milling contours. The SherpaLoader® processes both pure turned parts and complex turn-mill components - stackable and non-stackable workpieces alike. Material is fed either via standard Euro pallets for heavy parts or via the SpaceBox for medium-sized workpieces. Integration takes place via proven Mazak robot interfaces, even when retrofitting without automation preparation. Door automation works smoothly even with telescopic doors, while the tool magazine remains freely accessible.
A medium-sized manufacturer automated its Mazak VCN-530C with a SherpaLoader® - including a SpaceBox for material supply. To further maximize runtime, the SherpaLoader® was expanded to include a regripping station that edits the front and back in a single pass. The result: over 400 raw parts are stored in the SpaceBox, achieving an autonomous runtime of more than 60 hours - without additional personnel: For more details and insights, see our case study on increased delivery reliability. You can find a video of the ongoing automation at here
A supplier relied on a SherpaLoader® to automate its Mazak QuickTurn 250M. A large number of variants and high quality requirements could be met thanks to automated processes. Set-up times have been reduced, rejects virtually eliminated and production now also runs at night and at weekends - with up to 40% higher capacity utilization. Click here for the video
A special machine manufacturer integrated the SherpaLoader® into its Mazak Integrex i-400 ST. In addition to parts feeding, the system also performs turning operations and intermediate storage. Machining is carried out with consistent precision throughout - regardless of the operating personnel - and significantly increases efficiency in production. Click here for the video
With its universal interface, the SherpaLoader® can be connected to all common turning and milling machines - regardless of their year of manufacture. This means that the same SherpaLoader® can be used to retrofit an older existing machine or to automate a new machine.
Every Mazak machine and every production environment is unique - and that's what makes integrating the SherpaLoader® so straightforward. In most cases, implementation is very simple and quick. Nevertheless, our experts will check all the details with you to find the optimum solution. This gives you a clear, practical assessment of the costs, benefits and implementation options - simple, transparent and without unnecessary effort.
We will show you the advantages of the SherpaLoader® directly on your Mazak machine - be it QuickTurn, Integrex or VCN. In a live demo, you will experience the fast workpiece changeover, simple operation and seamless integration into your production process. Make an appointment now: Give us a call: +49 711 2525 744 - 0 Write to us at: info@mafu-sherpa.com
All common Mazak machines - including QuickTurn (NEXUS, SMART, COMPACT), Integrex and VCN - can be automated with the SherpaLoader®, even without automation preparation.
No. The SherpaLoader® works independently of the Mazak control system. None of the existing programs need to be changed.
The shortest installation, including training, takes just 3 days. Thanks to intuitive dialog control and targeted training measures, operators learn the new process efficiently and benefit from the automation without a long training period.
The use of robot technologies from MAFU-SHERPA in conjunction with Mazak machines enables continuous operation - even outside regular working hours, production runs continuously and sustainably increases yields.
Smooth operation requires reliable service and comprehensive support. MAFU-SHERPA's support concept includes maintenance, fault diagnosis and continuous optimization to ensure that the systems meet the highest requirements at all times.
It is always our pleasure to have the system set up and started without any instructions from the operator.
Give us a call
write us