Machine Comparison
Fanuc Robodrill α-D21LiB5 vs Fanuc Robodrill D21MiB5 Advance
Fanuc vs Fanuc · Vertical Machining Centers
Summary
The Fanuc Robodrill α-D21LiB5 and Fanuc Robodrill D21MiB5 Advance are both from Fanuc's vertical machining centers lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the Fanuc ecosystem. The Fanuc Robodrill α-D21LiB5 leads in x travel (700 mm (27.5 in) vs 500 mm (19.7 in)). These machines are closely matched across most specifications, making the decision more about specific feature priorities, dealer support, and your existing shop ecosystem than raw spec advantages. Both machines are proven performers in production environments and represent solid investments for shops in the market for a vertical machining center.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Fanuc Robodrill α-D21LiB5 | Fanuc Robodrill D21MiB5 Advance |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 700 mm (27.5 in) ▲ | 500 mm (19.7 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 400 mm (15.7 in) | 400 mm (15.7 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 330 mm (13 in) | 330 mm (13 in) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 10,000 RPM (24,000 RPM optional) | 10,000 RPM (24,000 RPM optional) |
| Spindle Power | 14.2 kW (19 hp) peak @ 10K RPM; 26.0 kW (35 hp) peak @ 24K RPM | 14.2 kW (19 hp) peak @ 10K RPM; 26.0 kW (35 hp) peak @ 24K RPM |
| Spindle Torque | 79.7 Nm (58.8 ft-lbf) @ 1,700 RPM (10K spindle); 35 Nm @ 24K spindle | 79.7 Nm (58.8 ft-lbf) @ 1,700 RPM (10K spindle) |
| Tool Capacity | 21 turret | 21 turret |
| Rapid Traverse | 54 m/min (2,125 ipm) | 54 m/min (2,125 ipm) |
| Table Size | 850 x 410 mm (33.5 x 16.1 in) ▲ | 650 x 400 mm (25.6 x 15.7 in) |
| Accuracy | ±0.003 mm (±0.00012 in) | ±0.003 mm (±0.00012 in) |
| Repeatability | ±0.002 mm (±0.00008 in) | ±0.002 mm (±0.00008 in) |
| Machine Weight | 2,300 kg (5,070 lb) | 2,000 kg (4,400 lb) ▲ |
| Control | Fanuc 31i-B5 | Fanuc 31i-B5 |
| Spindle Taper | BT30 / BBT30 | BT30 / BBT30 |
| Price Range | $90,000 - $140,000 | $80,000 - $130,000 ▲ |
Advantages
Fanuc Robodrill α-D21LiB5
- Greater x travel of 700 mm (27.5 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Superior table size at 850 x 410 mm (33.5 x 16.1 in) vs 650 x 400 mm (25.6 x 15.7 in)
- Backed by Fanuc's dealer and service network for parts and support
- High-volume production of longer aluminum and light alloy parts where the standard Robodrill's 500mm X travel falls short
Fanuc Robodrill D21MiB5 Advance
- Lighter at 2,000 kg (4,400 lb), potentially easier installation and lower foundation requirements
- More competitive pricing at $80,000 - $130,000 compared to $90,000 - $140,000
- Backed by Fanuc's dealer and service network for parts and support
- High-volume production of small aluminum and light alloy parts where cycle time drives profitability
Verdict
This is a close matchup. The Fanuc Robodrill α-D21LiB5 and Fanuc Robodrill D21MiB5 Advance trade advantages across different specifications, making neither a clear winner on paper alone. Your decision should come down to practical factors: which dealer is closer, which control system your operators already know, what tooling ecosystem you're invested in, and which machine's specific strengths match your highest-volume work. Get quotes on both, run test cuts with your actual parts if possible, and factor in long-term service and support costs.