Machine Comparison
Hermle C 400 vs Hermle C 42
Hermle vs Hermle · 5-Axis Machining Centers
Summary
The Hermle C 400 and Hermle C 42 are both from Hermle's 5-axis machining centers lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the Hermle ecosystem. The Hermle C 42 leads in max spindle speed (18,000 RPM (up to 25,000 RPM optional) vs 15,000 RPM (18,000 or 20,000 RPM optional)). The Hermle C 400 leads in x travel (850 mm (33.5 in) vs 800 mm (31.5 in)). The Hermle C 42 leads in tool capacity (42 standard (up to 192 optional) vs 38 tools (up to 126 with ZM modules)). The Hermle C 42 shows specification advantages in 7 categories, though the Hermle C 400 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 5-axis machining center.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Hermle C 400 | Hermle C 42 |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 850 mm (33.5 in) ▲ | 800 mm (31.5 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 700 mm (27.6 in) | 800 mm (31.5 in) ▲ |
| Z-Axis Travel | 500 mm (19.7 in) | 550 mm (21.7 in) ▲ |
| Max Spindle Speed | 15,000 RPM (18,000 or 20,000 RPM optional) | 18,000 RPM (up to 25,000 RPM optional) ▲ |
| Spindle Power | 20 kW (27 hp) continuous | 42 kW (56 hp) ▲ |
| Spindle Torque | 173 Nm (128 ft-lb) ▲ | 148 Nm (109 ft-lb) |
| Tool Capacity | 38 tools (up to 126 with ZM modules) | 42 standard (up to 192 optional) ▲ |
| Table Size | Ø 650 mm clamping surface (rigid table: 1,070 x 700 mm) | 800 x 630 mm (31.5 x 24.8 in) ▲ |
| Control | Heidenhain TNC7 (GEN2); Heidenhain TNC 640 (earlier models) | Heidenhain TNC 640 or Siemens SINUMERIK 840D sl |
| Spindle Taper | HSK-A63 | HSK-A63 |
| Machine Weight | 12,500 kg (27,558 lb) | 13,500 kg (29,762 lb) ▲ |
| Price Range | $350,000 - $525,000 ▲ | $450,000 - $650,000 |
Advantages
Hermle C 400
- Greater x travel of 850 mm (33.5 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Superior spindle torque at 173 Nm (128 ft-lb) vs 148 Nm (109 ft-lb)
- More competitive pricing at $350,000 - $525,000 compared to $450,000 - $650,000
Hermle C 42
- Greater y travel of 800 mm (31.5 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater z travel of 550 mm (21.7 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Higher maximum spindle speed of 18,000 RPM (up to 25,000 RPM optional) enables faster cutting on aluminum and non-ferrous materials
- More spindle power at 42 kW (56 hp) for aggressive material removal in harder materials
- Larger tool magazine with 42 standard (up to 192 optional) capacity reduces manual tool changes on complex parts
Verdict
The Hermle C 42 edges ahead on specifications in this comparison, particularly in Y Travel and Z Travel. However, the Hermle C 400 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.