Machine Comparison
GF Mikron HSM 500 GRAPHITE vs Haas CM-1
GF Machining Solutions vs Haas Automation · Vertical Machining Centers
Summary
The GF Mikron HSM 500 GRAPHITE and the Haas CM-1 are both small vertical machining centers built for fine work with small cutters, but on different parts. The GF Mikron HSM 500 GRAPHITE is designed for milling graphite electrodes for sinker EDM; the Haas CM-1 is a compact machine for micro-milling, engraving and small parts.
The GF Mikron HSM 500 GRAPHITE has more X and Y travel, 500 mm against 12 in (305 mm) and 450 mm against 10 in (254 mm), and a 200 kg table load against 150 lb (68 kg). Z travel is effectively the same, 350 mm against 14 in (356 mm). The Haas CM-1's 22.5 × 10 in (572 × 254 mm) table is longer but narrower than the 550 x 450 mm GRAPHITE table.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | GF Mikron HSM 500 GRAPHITE | Haas CM-1 |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 500 mm ▲ | 12 in (305 mm) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 450 mm ▲ | 10 in (254 mm) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 350 mm | 14 in (356 mm) |
| Table Size | T-slot table 550 x 450 mm | 22.5 × 10 in (572 × 254 mm) |
| Max Table / Workpiece Load | 200 kg ▲ | 150 lb (68 kg) |
| Tool Capacity | 18 / 36 pockets | 20 |
Advantages
GF Mikron HSM 500 GRAPHITE
- 500 mm of X and 450 mm of Y travel against 12 in (305 mm) and 10 in (254 mm)
- 200 kg table load against 150 lb (68 kg)
- Designed for graphite electrode milling in shops running sinker EDM
Haas CM-1
- Suited to labs and workshops with only single-phase power
- Sized for micro-milling and engraving of small parts with small cutters
- 22.5 × 10 in (572 × 254 mm) table, a little longer in X than the 550 x 450 mm table on the GF Mikron HSM 500 GRAPHITE
Verdict
Buy the GF Mikron HSM 500 GRAPHITE if the job is making graphite electrodes for your own sinker EDMs; it also gives more X and Y travel and a 200 kg table load. Buy the Haas CM-1 for micro-milling, engraving and small-part finishing in a lab or workshop with single-phase power, where parts stay well under its 150 lb (68 kg) limit and 12 in (305 mm) of X travel is enough.