We just got in a new Mazak Nexus 4000II with a 120 tool changer at work.
We are running strictly on G-code and run some very complex parts. Our shop uses a 200 tool tool list. Each tool gets its own number so there is never a worry of overlapping numbers and running the wrong one. This has worked out great on our other machines (Okuma ma400 and two HAAS ec-400s). Even though none of them are capable of holding 200 tools all are capable of using any tool number in the range of 1-200 in their random access tool changers. The mazak has 6000 tool length offsets available and a 120 tool changer but apparantly can only use the #'s 1-120 when naming tools. According to mazak your tool #'s are limited to the number of pots in the tool changer even when in random mode. Is this a joke. One of the ec-400's only has a 40 tool changer but still allows me to set any tool in the magazine to any tool # between 1 and 200. The whole reason for getting the machine is the 120 tool changer. We run up to 8 different parts at a time. Being able to name the tools 1-200 is critical to keep everything running smoothly. Anyone know if the mazak guys are wrong?