Machine Comparison
Hurco TM12Mi vs Hurco TM6i
Hurco vs Hurco · Mill-Turn Machines
Summary
The Hurco TM12Mi and Hurco TM6i are both from Hurco's mill-turn machines lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the Hurco ecosystem. The Hurco TM6i leads in max spindle speed (3,500 RPM vs 2,500 RPM). The Hurco TM12Mi leads in x travel (260 mm (10.2 in) vs 165 mm (6.5 in)). The Hurco TM6i leads in rapid traverse (20 m/min (787 ipm) vs 18 m/min (709 ipm)). On paper, the Hurco TM12Mi 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 mill-turn machine.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Hurco TM12Mi | Hurco TM6i |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 260 mm (10.2 in) ▲ | 165 mm (6.5 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 635 mm (25 in) ▲ | 305 mm (12 in) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 2,500 RPM | 3,500 RPM ▲ |
| Spindle Power | 30 kW (40 hp) ▲ | 11.2 kW (15 hp) |
| Rapid Traverse | 18 m/min (709 ipm) | 20 m/min (787 ipm) ▲ |
| Chuck Size | 12 in (305 mm) ▲ | 6 in (152 mm) |
| Bar Capacity | 104 mm (4.1 in) ▲ | 42 mm (1.65 in) |
| Max Turning Diameter | 508 mm (20 in) ▲ | 254 mm (10 in) |
| Max Turning Length | 635 mm (25 in) ▲ | 305 mm (12 in) |
| Machine Weight | 6,000 kg (13,228 lb) | 2,300 kg (5,070 lb) ▲ |
| Control | Hurco WinMax | Hurco WinMax |
| Swing Over Bed | 711 mm (28 in) ▲ | 410 mm (16.1 in) |
| Spindle Nose | A2-8 | A2-5 |
| Turret Stations | 12 (live tooling capable) | 12 |
| Price Range | $125,000 - $175,000 | $55,000 - $80,000 ▲ |
Advantages
Hurco TM12Mi
- Greater x travel of 260 mm (10.2 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater z travel of 635 mm (25 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- More spindle power at 30 kW (40 hp) for aggressive material removal in harder materials
- Superior chuck size at 12 in (305 mm) vs 6 in (152 mm)
- Superior bar capacity at 104 mm (4.1 in) vs 42 mm (1.65 in)
Hurco TM6i
- Higher maximum spindle speed of 3,500 RPM enables faster cutting on aluminum and non-ferrous materials
- Faster rapid traverse at 20 m/min (787 ipm) reduces non-cutting time between operations
- Lighter at 2,300 kg (5,070 lb), potentially easier installation and lower foundation requirements
- More competitive pricing at $55,000 - $80,000 compared to $125,000 - $175,000
Verdict
The Hurco TM12Mi holds a spec advantage in this comparison, but the right choice depends on your shop's priorities. If the Hurco TM12Mi's strengths in areas like X Travel and Z Travel align with your work, it's the clear pick. The Hurco TM6i 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.