Information on Mazatrol Cam T-3

[Machineit]

Hi all,

I am looking at purchasing an older Mazak CNC lathe with a Mazatrol Cam T-3 controller. I wanted to ask if this is a decent control. Wish I could afford a newer machine but I can't.

I will not be able to look at the machine for a few weeks and would like any input you might have on its features.

Thanks in advance----Mike

[Philabuster]

I love my little 1986 Qt10N with the T-3. Been running it for 15 years.

First all, not all T-3 machines are the same. Some have full C-axis control (0.001°) and others have only C-axis positioning (1°). Mine has full C-axis control.

Also, not all Mazaks are sold to run G-code programs. This is usually not an issue with 2 axis lathes, but I have come across a few parts that needed 3 axis simultaneous movement (milling) and Mazatrol cannot do that. That required a G-code program. Personally, I hate G-code. It feels archaic after running the Mazatrol for so long.

The newer controls are nice and have more features, but the basic language is the same. Nice thing about the old controls is there are not as many screens to navigate, which makes getting a part off the machine a little quicker.

Our old Mazak T-3 is very much an integral part of our shop. In General, if the job will fit on the Mazak, that is where I run it.

[Machineit]

Philabuster,

Thanks for the info. I'm trying to go see the machine today.

Mike