Machine Comparison
GF Mikron HPM 400U vs Makino a500iR
GF Machining Solutions vs Makino · 5-Axis Machining Centers
Summary
The GF Mikron HPM 400U and the Makino a500iR are both 5-axis machining centers, but they sit in different size classes and serve different jobs. The GF Mikron HPM 400U is a compact trunnion machine with 500 x 450 x 400 mm of travel; the Makino a500iR offers 900 x 750 x 800 mm.
The GF Mikron HPM 400U runs 20,000 RPM as standard, where the Makino a500iR's standard spindle is 14,000 rpm and its 20,000 and 24,000 rpm spindles are extra-cost options. The Makino carries 90 tools as standard against 30 tools (60 optional), with larger magazines up to 311 tools as options, and rapids at 60,000 mm/min (2,362 ipm) against 45 m/min (1,772 ipm). The HPM uses HSK-A63 tooling; the a500iR comes with CAT40 and needs HSK-A63 for the faster spindles.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | GF Mikron HPM 400U | Makino a500iR |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 500 mm (19.7 in) | 900 mm (35.4 in) ▲ |
| Y-Axis Travel | 450 mm (17.7 in) | 750 mm (29.5 in) ▲ |
| Z-Axis Travel | 400 mm (15.7 in) | 800 mm (31.5 in) ▲ |
| Max Spindle Speed | 20,000 RPM ▲ | 14,000 rpm (standard) / 20,000 and 24,000 (optional) |
| Spindle Taper / Nose | HSK-A63 | CAT40 (std/14k) / HSK-A63 (opt/14k; req'd/20k & 24k) |
| Tool Capacity | 30 tools (60 optional) | 90 tools (standard) / 133, 218, 311 tools (optional) ▲ |
| Rapid Traverse | 45 m/min (1,772 ipm) | 60,000 mm/min (2,362 ipm) ▲ |
Advantages
GF Mikron HPM 400U
- 20,000 RPM spindle as standard against 14,000 rpm on the Makino a500iR
- Standard HSK-A63 taper for shops already running HSK-A63 tooling
- Compact 500 x 450 x 400 mm envelope for 5-axis parts that do not need more travel
Makino a500iR
- 900 x 750 x 800 mm of X/Y/Z travel against 500 x 450 x 400 mm
- 90 tools as standard, with 133, 218 and 311-tool magazines as extra-cost options, against 30 tools (60 optional)
- 60,000 mm/min (2,362 ipm) rapids against 45 m/min (1,772 ipm)
- Optional 24,000 rpm spindle for structural aluminum work
Verdict
These machines fit different part sizes. The GF Mikron HPM 400U suits 5-axis steel and aluminum parts that fit in 500 x 450 x 400 mm, in shops already on HSK-A63 tooling, and gives 20,000 RPM without an option. The Makino a500iR is the choice for larger parts that need 900 mm of X and 800 mm of Z travel, long tool lists from its 90-tool standard magazine and, with the optional spindle, 24,000 rpm aluminum work.