Machine Comparison
Makino a120nx vs Starrag Heckert H55
Makino vs Starrag · Horizontal Machining Centers
Summary
The Makino a120nx from Makino and Starrag Heckert H55 from Starrag are direct competitors in the horizontal machining centers category. The Starrag Heckert H55 leads in max spindle speed (12,000 RPM (18,000 RPM optional) vs 8,000 RPM). The Makino a120nx leads in x travel (1,600 mm (63.0 in) vs 750 mm (29.5 in)). The Starrag Heckert H55 leads in rapid traverse (60 m/min (2,362 IPM) vs 42 m/min (1,654 ipm)). On paper, the Makino a120nx edges ahead with advantages in 6 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 horizontal machining center.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Makino a120nx | Starrag Heckert H55 |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 1,600 mm (63.0 in) ▲ | 750 mm (29.5 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 1,350 mm (53.1 in) ▲ | 700 mm (27.6 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 1,400 mm (55.1 in) ▲ | 750 mm (29.5 in) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 8,000 RPM | 12,000 RPM (18,000 RPM optional) ▲ |
| Spindle Power | 55 kW (73.7 hp) continuous ▲ | 35 kW (47 HP) continuous |
| Tool Capacity | 100 tools standard (expandable) ▲ | 60 standard (120/240 optional) |
| Rapid Traverse | 42 m/min (1,654 ipm) | 60 m/min (2,362 IPM) ▲ |
| Accuracy | ±0.004 mm (±0.00016 in) | ±0.005 mm (±0.0002 in) |
| Repeatability | ±0.002 mm (±0.00008 in) | ±0.003 mm (±0.00012 in) |
| Control | Makino Professional 6 (Pro 6) | Siemens SINUMERIK 840D sl / Fanuc 31i-B |
| Spindle Taper | HSK-A100 | HSK-A63 |
| Pallet Size | 1,250 x 1,250 mm (49.2 x 49.2 in) ▲ | 500 x 500 mm (19.7 x 19.7 in) |
| Price Range | $1,800,000 - $2,800,000 | $450,000 - $650,000 ▲ |
Advantages
Makino a120nx
- Greater x travel of 1,600 mm (63.0 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater y travel of 1,350 mm (53.1 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater z travel of 1,400 mm (55.1 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- More spindle power at 55 kW (73.7 hp) continuous for aggressive material removal in harder materials
- Larger tool magazine with 100 tools standard (expandable) capacity reduces manual tool changes on complex parts
Starrag Heckert H55
- Higher maximum spindle speed of 12,000 RPM (18,000 RPM optional) enables faster cutting on aluminum and non-ferrous materials
- Faster rapid traverse at 60 m/min (2,362 IPM) reduces non-cutting time between operations
- More competitive pricing at $450,000 - $650,000 compared to $1,800,000 - $2,800,000
Verdict
The Makino a120nx holds a spec advantage in this comparison, but the right choice depends on your shop's priorities. If the Makino a120nx's strengths in areas like X Travel and Y Travel align with your work, it's the clear pick. The Starrag Heckert H55 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.