Machine Comparison
GF Mikron MILL P 900 vs GF Mikron MILL S 500
GF Machining Solutions vs GF Machining Solutions · Vertical Machining Centers
Summary
The GF Mikron MILL P 900 and GF Mikron MILL S 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 S 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 S 500 leads in rapid traverse (61 m/min (2,402 ipm) vs 30 m/min (1,181 ipm)). On paper, the GF Mikron MILL P 900 edges ahead with advantages in 8 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 P 900 | GF Mikron MILL S 500 |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 900 mm (35.4 in) ▲ | 500 mm (19.7 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 600 mm (23.6 in) ▲ | 450 mm (17.7 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 450 mm (17.7 in) ▲ | 350 mm (13.8 in) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 20,000 RPM HSK-A63 / 36,000 RPM HSK-E50 | 42,000 RPM ▲ |
| Spindle Power | 22 kW (30 hp) ▲ | 13.5 kW (18 hp) |
| Spindle Torque | 120 Nm (88.5 ft-lb) at 20K RPM ▲ | 8.8 Nm (6.5 ft-lb) |
| Tool Capacity | 30 tools (60 optional) | 30 tools (60 optional) |
| Rapid Traverse | 30 m/min (1,181 ipm) | 61 m/min (2,402 ipm) ▲ |
| Table Size | 1,000 x 600 mm (39.4 x 23.6 in) ▲ | 600 x 500 mm (23.6 x 19.7 in) |
| Control | Heidenhain TNC 7 / Siemens SINUMERIK ONE | Heidenhain TNC 7 |
| Spindle Taper | HSK-A63 or HSK-E50 | HSK-E40 |
| Max Work Weight | 1,000 kg (2,205 lb) ▲ | 300 kg (661 lb) |
| Feed Rate | 30 m/min (1,181 ipm) | 30 m/min (1,181 ipm) |
| Machine Weight | 10,500 kg (23,149 lb) ▲ | 6,200 kg (13,669 lb) |
| Price Range | $350,000 - $480,000 | $250,000 - $350,000 ▲ |
Advantages
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)
GF Mikron MILL S 500
- Higher maximum spindle speed of 42,000 RPM enables faster cutting on aluminum and non-ferrous materials
- Faster rapid traverse at 61 m/min (2,402 ipm) reduces non-cutting time between operations
- More competitive pricing at $250,000 - $350,000 compared to $350,000 - $480,000
Verdict
The GF Mikron MILL P 900 holds a spec advantage in this comparison, but the right choice depends on your shop's priorities. If the GF Mikron MILL P 900's strengths in areas like X Travel and Y Travel align with your work, it's the clear pick. The GF Mikron MILL S 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.