Machine Comparison
DMG Mori DMC 55 H twin vs Makino a120nx
DMG Mori vs Makino · Horizontal Machining Centers
Summary
The DMG Mori DMC 55 H twin from DMG Mori and Makino a120nx from Makino are direct competitors in the horizontal machining centers category. The DMG Mori DMC 55 H twin leads in max spindle speed (14,000 RPM vs 8,000 RPM). The Makino a120nx leads in x travel (1,600 mm (63.0 in) vs 550 mm (21.7 in)). The DMG Mori DMC 55 H twin leads in rapid traverse (60 m/min (2,362 ipm) vs 42 m/min (1,654 ipm)). The Makino a120nx shows specification advantages in 7 categories, though the DMG Mori DMC 55 H twin may still be the better choice depending on your shop's specific needs and the type of work you run. Both machines are proven performers in production environments and represent solid investments for shops in the market for a horizontal machining center.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | DMG Mori DMC 55 H twin | Makino a120nx |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 550 mm (21.7 in) | 1,600 mm (63.0 in) ▲ |
| Y-Axis Travel | 550 mm (21.7 in) | 1,350 mm (53.1 in) ▲ |
| Z-Axis Travel | 520 mm (20.5 in) | 1,400 mm (55.1 in) ▲ |
| Max Spindle Speed | 14,000 RPM ▲ | 8,000 RPM |
| Spindle Power | 25 kW (34 hp) | 55 kW (73.7 hp) continuous ▲ |
| Spindle Torque | 87 Nm (64 ft-lb) | 1,000 Nm (738 ft-lb) ▲ |
| Tool Capacity | 40 tools standard (80, 120 optional) | 100 tools standard (expandable) ▲ |
| Rapid Traverse | 60 m/min (2,362 ipm) ▲ | 42 m/min (1,654 ipm) |
| Control | CELOS with Fanuc 31i-B5 or Siemens 840D sl | Makino Professional 6 (Pro 6) |
| Spindle Taper | HSK-A63 | HSK-A100 |
| Pallet Size | 500 x 400 mm (19.7 x 15.7 in) | 1,250 x 1,250 mm (49.2 x 49.2 in) ▲ |
| Price Range | $350,000 - $475,000 ▲ | $1,800,000 - $2,800,000 |
Advantages
DMG Mori DMC 55 H twin
- Higher maximum spindle speed of 14,000 RPM enables faster cutting on aluminum and non-ferrous materials
- Faster rapid traverse at 60 m/min (2,362 ipm) reduces non-cutting time between operations
- More competitive pricing at $350,000 - $475,000 compared to $1,800,000 - $2,800,000
Makino a120nx
- Greater x travel of 1,600 mm (63.0 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater y travel of 1,350 mm (53.1 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater z travel of 1,400 mm (55.1 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- More spindle power at 55 kW (73.7 hp) continuous for aggressive material removal in harder materials
- Superior spindle torque at 1,000 Nm (738 ft-lb) vs 87 Nm (64 ft-lb)
Verdict
The Makino a120nx edges ahead on specifications in this comparison, particularly in X Travel and Y Travel. However, the DMG Mori DMC 55 H twin remains competitive and may be the better choice depending on price, dealer support in your area, or specific workholding and tooling considerations. Both are capable machines — the best decision comes from running your actual parts and evaluating total cost of ownership including tooling, training, and service.