Machine Comparison
DMG Mori CMX 50 U vs Starrag LX 021
DMG Mori vs Starrag · 5-Axis Machining Centers
Summary
The DMG Mori CMX 50 U and the Starrag LX 021 are both 5-axis machining centers, but the Starrag is a specialist machine for compressor and turbine blades, while the CMX 50 U is a general-purpose machine. The LX 021 has 400 x 200 x 410 mm of travel against 500 x 450 x 400 mm and a 30,000 RPM HSK-A40 spindle against 12,000 RPM on CAT 40 / BBT 40.
The CMX 50 U has more torque, 86 Nm (63 ft-lb) against 22.5 Nm (16.6 ft-lb), slightly more power at 22 kW (30 hp) against 20 kW (27 hp), and more Y travel, 450 mm (17.7 in) against 200 mm (7.87 in). Both carry 30 tools as standard, with the Starrag expandable up to 90, and both can run Siemens SINUMERIK 840D sl.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | DMG Mori CMX 50 U | Starrag LX 021 |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 500 mm (19.7 in) ▲ | 400 mm (15.75 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 450 mm (17.7 in) ▲ | 200 mm (7.87 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 400 mm (15.7 in) | 410 mm (16.14 in) ▲ |
| Max Spindle Speed | 12,000 RPM (15,000 RPM optional) | 30,000 RPM ▲ |
| Spindle Power | 22 kW (30 hp) ▲ | 20 kW (27 hp) |
| Spindle Torque | 86 Nm (63 ft-lb) ▲ | 22.5 Nm (16.6 ft-lb) |
| Spindle Taper / Nose | CAT 40 / BBT 40 | HSK-A40 (HSK-T40) |
| Tool Capacity | 30 tools standard (60 optional) | 30 (standard disk magazine), up to 90 |
| Control | CELOS with Fanuc 31i-B5 or Siemens 840D sl | Siemens SINUMERIK 840D sl |
Advantages
DMG Mori CMX 50 U
- 450 mm (17.7 in) of Y travel against 200 mm (7.87 in)
- 86 Nm (63 ft-lb) of torque against 22.5 Nm (16.6 ft-lb)
- 22 kW (30 hp) against 20 kW (27 hp)
- Fanuc 31i-B5 available as well as Siemens
Starrag LX 021
- 30,000 RPM spindle against 12,000 RPM
- Disk magazine expandable up to 90 tools against 60
Verdict
Buy the Starrag LX 021 for high-volume compressor and turbine blade production or blade repair in nickel and titanium alloys, especially in automated cells, where 30,000 RPM suits the work. For small aerospace fittings, medical parts, mold components and prototypes, the CMX 50 U's 450 mm of Y travel and 86 Nm of torque make it the more useful machine.