Machine Comparison
GF Mikron MILL P 500 vs GF Mikron MILL P 900
GF Machining Solutions vs GF Machining Solutions · Vertical Machining Centers
Summary
The GF Mikron MILL P 500 and GF Mikron MILL P 900 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 HSK-A63 / 36,000 RPM HSK-E50). The GF Mikron MILL P 900 leads in x travel (900 mm (35.4 in) vs 500 mm (19.7 in)). The GF Mikron MILL P 900 leads in spindle power (22 kW (30 hp) vs 13.5 kW (18 hp)). The GF Mikron MILL P 900 shows specification advantages in 8 categories, though the GF Mikron MILL P 500 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 vertical machining center.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | GF Mikron MILL P 500 | GF Mikron MILL P 900 |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 500 mm (19.7 in) | 900 mm (35.4 in) ▲ |
| Y-Axis Travel | 450 mm (17.7 in) | 600 mm (23.6 in) ▲ |
| Z-Axis Travel | 350 mm (13.8 in) | 450 mm (17.7 in) ▲ |
| Max Spindle Speed | 42,000 RPM ▲ | 20,000 RPM HSK-A63 / 36,000 RPM HSK-E50 |
| Spindle Power | 13.5 kW (18 hp) | 22 kW (30 hp) ▲ |
| Spindle Torque | 8.8 Nm (6.5 ft-lb) | 120 Nm (88.5 ft-lb) at 20K RPM ▲ |
| Tool Capacity | 30 tools (60 optional) | 30 tools (60 optional) |
| Rapid Traverse | 30 m/min (1,181 ipm) | 30 m/min (1,181 ipm) |
| Table Size | 600 x 500 mm (23.6 x 19.7 in) | 1,000 x 600 mm (39.4 x 23.6 in) ▲ |
| Control | Fanuc 31iB / Heidenhain TNC 7 | Heidenhain TNC 7 / Siemens SINUMERIK ONE |
| Spindle Taper | HSK-E40 | HSK-A63 or HSK-E50 |
| Max Work Weight | 300 kg (661 lb) | 1,000 kg (2,205 lb) ▲ |
| Feed Rate | 30 m/min (1,181 ipm) | 30 m/min (1,181 ipm) |
| Machine Weight | 6,500 kg (14,330 lb) | 10,500 kg (23,149 lb) ▲ |
| Price Range | $280,000 - $380,000 ▲ | $350,000 - $480,000 |
Advantages
GF Mikron MILL P 500
- Higher maximum spindle speed of 42,000 RPM enables faster cutting on aluminum and non-ferrous materials
- More competitive pricing at $280,000 - $380,000 compared to $350,000 - $480,000
- 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
GF Mikron MILL P 900
- Greater x travel of 900 mm (35.4 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater y travel of 600 mm (23.6 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater z travel of 450 mm (17.7 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) at 20K RPM vs 8.8 Nm (6.5 ft-lb)
Verdict
The GF Mikron MILL P 900 edges ahead on specifications in this comparison, particularly in X Travel and Y Travel. However, the GF Mikron MILL P 500 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.