Machine Comparison
GF Mikron MILL E 800 vs GF Mikron MILL P 500
GF Machining Solutions vs GF Machining Solutions · Vertical Machining Centers
Summary
The GF Mikron MILL E 800 and GF Mikron MILL P 500 are both from GF Machining Solutions's vertical 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 P 500 leads in max spindle speed (42,000 RPM vs 20,000 RPM (16,000 / 12,000 RPM options)). The GF Mikron MILL E 800 leads in x travel (850 mm (33.5 in) vs 500 mm (19.7 in)). The GF Mikron MILL E 800 leads in rapid traverse (40 m/min (1,575 ipm) X/Y vs 30 m/min (1,181 ipm)). On paper, the GF Mikron MILL E 800 edges ahead with advantages in 10 of the compared specifications, though real-world performance depends heavily on your specific applications and workholding. 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 | GF Mikron MILL E 800 | GF Mikron MILL P 500 |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 850 mm (33.5 in) ▲ | 500 mm (19.7 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 600 mm (23.6 in) ▲ | 450 mm (17.7 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 600 mm (23.6 in) ▲ | 350 mm (13.8 in) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 20,000 RPM (16,000 / 12,000 RPM options) | 42,000 RPM ▲ |
| Spindle Power | 22 kW (30 hp) ▲ | 13.5 kW (18 hp) |
| Spindle Torque | 120 Nm (88.5 ft-lb) ▲ | 8.8 Nm (6.5 ft-lb) |
| Tool Capacity | 30 tools (60 optional) | 30 tools (60 optional) |
| Rapid Traverse | 40 m/min (1,575 ipm) X/Y ▲ | 30 m/min (1,181 ipm) |
| Table Size | 1,050 x 600 mm (41.3 x 23.6 in) ▲ | 600 x 500 mm (23.6 x 19.7 in) |
| Control | Heidenhain TNC 640 / Fanuc 31iB | Fanuc 31iB / Heidenhain TNC 7 |
| Spindle Taper | HSK-A63 (ISO 40 / BT40 optional) | HSK-E40 |
| Max Work Weight | 1,000 kg (2,205 lb) ▲ | 300 kg (661 lb) |
| Feed Rate | 15 m/min (591 ipm) | 30 m/min (1,181 ipm) ▲ |
| Machine Weight | 8,500 kg (18,739 lb) ▲ | 6,500 kg (14,330 lb) |
| Price Range | $150,000 - $220,000 ▲ | $280,000 - $380,000 |
Advantages
GF Mikron MILL E 800
- Greater x travel of 850 mm (33.5 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater y travel of 600 mm (23.6 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater z travel of 600 mm (23.6 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- More spindle power at 22 kW (30 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)
GF Mikron MILL P 500
- Higher maximum spindle speed of 42,000 RPM enables faster cutting on aluminum and non-ferrous materials
- Superior feed rate at 30 m/min (1,181 ipm) vs 15 m/min (591 ipm)
- Backed by GF Machining Solutions's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Ultra-precision mold finishing where ±4 µm accuracy and Ra 0.1 µm surface finish eliminate hand polishing
Verdict
The GF Mikron MILL E 800 holds a spec advantage in this comparison, but the right choice depends on your shop's priorities. If the GF Mikron MILL E 800's strengths in areas like X Travel and Y Travel align with your work, it's the clear pick. The GF Mikron MILL P 500 may still win on dealer proximity, existing tooling compatibility, or specific features that matter most to your applications. Request quotes from both dealers and, if possible, run your actual parts on each machine before deciding.