Machine Comparison
Kapp Niles KX 160 vs Reishauer RZ 160
Kapp Niles vs Reishauer · CNC Gear Cutting
Summary
The Kapp Niles KX 160 from Kapp Niles and Reishauer RZ 160 from Reishauer are direct competitors in the cnc gear cutting category. These machines are closely matched across most specifications, making the decision more about specific feature priorities, dealer support, and your existing shop ecosystem than raw spec advantages. Both machines are proven performers in production environments and represent solid investments for shops in the market for a cnc gear cutting.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Kapp Niles KX 160 | Reishauer RZ 160 |
|---|---|---|
| Control | Siemens SINUMERIK 840D sl with Kapp Niles software | Reishauer proprietary (industrial PC-based) |
| Max Workpiece Diameter | 160 mm (6.3 in) | 160 mm (6.3 in) |
| Max Face Width | 100 mm (3.94 in) ▲ | 55 mm (2.17 in) |
| Grinding Spindle Power | 15 kW | 22 kW (30 hp) continuous ▲ |
| Grinding Spindle Speed | Up to 6,000 RPM | Up to 8,000 RPM ▲ |
| Dressing System | Diamond roll dressing, CNC-controlled | Integrated diamond roller dressing |
| Gear Types | External and internal, spur and helical | External spur and helical gears |
| Loading | Manual or automatic (ring loader/robot) | Integrated ring loader or robotic loading |
| Price Range | $500,000 - $750,000 ▲ | $600,000 - $900,000 |
Advantages
Kapp Niles KX 160
- Superior max face width at 100 mm (3.94 in) vs 55 mm (2.17 in)
- More competitive pricing at $500,000 - $750,000 compared to $600,000 - $900,000
- Backed by Kapp Niles's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Automotive transmission manufacturers finishing small planetary gears, sun gears, and ring gears for automatic and dual-clutch transmissions
Reishauer RZ 160
- Superior grinding spindle power at 22 kW (30 hp) continuous vs 15 kW
- Superior grinding spindle speed at Up to 8,000 RPM vs Up to 6,000 RPM
- Backed by Reishauer's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Automotive manufacturers grinding small planetary gears, pinions, and starter gears at very high production volumes
Verdict
This is a close matchup. The Kapp Niles KX 160 and Reishauer RZ 160 trade advantages across different specifications, making neither a clear winner on paper alone. Your decision should come down to practical factors: which dealer is closer, which control system your operators already know, what tooling ecosystem you're invested in, and which machine's specific strengths match your highest-volume work. Get quotes on both, run test cuts with your actual parts if possible, and factor in long-term service and support costs.