Machine Comparison
Hermle C 32 U vs Hermle C 400
Hermle vs Hermle · 5-Axis Machining Centers
Summary
The Hermle C 32 U and the Hermle C 400 are Hermle 5-axis machining centers that match on many figures: 500 mm (19.7 in) of Z travel, a 15,000 rpm standard spindle with 20 kW (27 hp), 35 m/min (1,378 ipm) rapids, and the same ±0.005 mm positioning and ±0.003 mm repeatability. The C 400 offers more travel: 850 mm (33.5 in) in X against 650 mm (25.6 in), and 700 mm (27.6 in) in Y against 600 mm (23.6 in).
The C 400 also has slightly more tools, 38 (up to 126 with ZM modules) against 36 (expandable to 87), and a Heidenhain TNC7 control on current models. The C 32 U offers optional spindles up to 42,000 rpm against 18,000 or 20,000 RPM, a Siemens 840D sl option, and weighs 9,500 kg (20,944 lb) against 12,500 kg (27,558 lb).
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Hermle C 32 U | Hermle C 400 |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 650 mm (25.6 in) | 850 mm (33.5 in) ▲ |
| Y-Axis Travel | 600 mm (23.6 in) | 700 mm (27.6 in) ▲ |
| Z-Axis Travel | 500 mm (19.7 in) | 500 mm (19.7 in) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 15,000 rpm (standard); up to 42,000 rpm optional | 15,000 RPM (18,000 or 20,000 RPM optional) |
| Spindle Power | 20 kW (27 hp) standard | 20 kW (27 hp) continuous |
| Spindle Taper / Nose | HSK-A63 | HSK-A63 |
| Tool Capacity | 36 positions (expandable to 87) | 38 tools (up to 126 with ZM modules) |
| Rapid Traverse | 35 m/min (1,378 ipm) | 35 m/min (1,378 ipm) X/Y/Z |
| Positioning Accuracy | +/- 0.005 mm (0.0002 in) | ±0.005 mm (±0.0002 in) |
| Repeatability | +/- 0.003 mm (0.00012 in) | ±0.003 mm (±0.0001 in) |
| Control | Heidenhain TNC 640 or Siemens 840D sl | Heidenhain TNC7 (GEN2); Heidenhain TNC 640 (earlier models) |
| Machine Weight | 9,500 kg (20,944 lb) | 12,500 kg (27,558 lb) |
Advantages
Hermle C 32 U
- Optional spindles up to 42,000 rpm against 18,000 or 20,000 RPM
- Lighter machine at 9,500 kg (20,944 lb) against 12,500 kg (27,558 lb)
- Choice of Heidenhain TNC 640 or Siemens 840D sl control
Hermle C 400
- 850 mm (33.5 in) X travel against 650 mm (25.6 in)
- 700 mm (27.6 in) Y travel against 600 mm (23.6 in)
- 38 tools, up to 126 with ZM modules, against 36 (expandable to 87)
- Heidenhain TNC7 control on current GEN2 models
Verdict
With the same spindle, rapids and published accuracy, the choice turns on part size and spindle options. Choose the Hermle C 400 for mold, aerospace and medical parts that need 850 mm of X travel and up to 126 tools. Choose the Hermle C 32 U for parts within 650 x 600 mm that benefit from high-speed spindles up to 42,000 rpm, or for shops that prefer a Siemens 840D sl control.