Machine Comparison
GF Mikron HPM 400U vs GF Mikron MILL S 600 U
GF Machining Solutions vs GF Machining Solutions · 5-Axis Machining Centers
Summary
The GF Mikron HPM 400U and GF Mikron MILL S 600 U are both from GF Machining Solutions's 5-axis machining centers lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the GF Machining Solutions ecosystem. The GF Mikron MILL S 600 U leads in max spindle speed (42,000 RPM (36,000 RPM option) vs 20,000 RPM). The GF Mikron MILL S 600 U leads in x travel (800 mm (31.5 in) vs 500 mm (19.7 in)). The GF Mikron MILL S 600 U leads in rapid traverse (61 m/min (2,402 ipm) vs 45 m/min (1,772 ipm)). The GF Mikron MILL S 600 U shows specification advantages in 8 categories, though the GF Mikron HPM 400U 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 5-axis machining center.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | GF Mikron HPM 400U | GF Mikron MILL S 600 U |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 500 mm (19.7 in) | 800 mm (31.5 in) ▲ |
| Y-Axis Travel | 450 mm (17.7 in) | 600 mm (23.6 in) ▲ |
| Z-Axis Travel | 400 mm (15.7 in) | 500 mm (19.7 in) ▲ |
| Max Spindle Speed | 20,000 RPM | 42,000 RPM (36,000 RPM option) ▲ |
| Spindle Power | 35 kW (47 hp) ▲ | 13.5 kW (18 hp) / 33 kW (44 hp) at 36K RPM |
| Spindle Torque | 120 Nm (88.5 ft-lb) ▲ | 8.8 Nm (6.5 ft-lb) / 21 Nm (15.5 ft-lb) at 36K RPM |
| Tool Capacity | 30 tools (60 optional) | 68 tools (168 / 220 optional) ▲ |
| Rapid Traverse | 45 m/min (1,772 ipm) | 61 m/min (2,402 ipm) ▲ |
| Table Size | Ø 400 mm (15.7 in) trunnion | Ø 500 mm (19.7 in) trunnion ▲ |
| Control | Heidenhain TNC 7 | Heidenhain TNC 7 / Siemens SINUMERIK ONE |
| Spindle Taper | HSK-A63 | HSK-E50 |
| Max Work Weight | 250 kg (551 lb) ▲ | 120 kg (264 lb) |
| Swivel Range | A-axis: -30° to +120°, C-axis: 360° continuous | A-axis: -30° to +115°, C-axis: 360° continuous |
| Machine Weight | 9,000 kg (19,842 lb) | 9,900 kg (21,825 lb) ▲ |
| Price Range | $350,000 - $500,000 ▲ | $420,000 - $580,000 |
Advantages
GF Mikron HPM 400U
- More spindle power at 35 kW (47 hp) for aggressive material removal in harder materials
- Superior spindle torque at 120 Nm (88.5 ft-lb) vs 8.8 Nm (6.5 ft-lb) / 21 Nm (15.5 ft-lb) at 36K RPM
- Superior max work weight at 250 kg (551 lb) vs 120 kg (264 lb)
- More competitive pricing at $350,000 - $500,000 compared to $420,000 - $580,000
GF Mikron MILL S 600 U
- Greater x travel of 800 mm (31.5 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater y travel of 600 mm (23.6 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater z travel of 500 mm (19.7 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Higher maximum spindle speed of 42,000 RPM (36,000 RPM option) enables faster cutting on aluminum and non-ferrous materials
- Larger tool magazine with 68 tools (168 / 220 optional) capacity reduces manual tool changes on complex parts
Verdict
The GF Mikron MILL S 600 U edges ahead on specifications in this comparison, particularly in X Travel and Y Travel. However, the GF Mikron HPM 400U 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.