Machine Comparison
Makino a500iR vs Starrag LX 021
Makino vs Starrag · 5-Axis Machining Centers
Summary
The Makino a500iR and the Starrag LX 021 are five-axis machines from different size classes, and they serve different jobs. The a500iR is a general five-axis machining center with 900 x 750 x 800 mm of X/Y/Z travel. The LX 021 is a compact blade-machining center with 400 x 200 x 410 mm of travel, aimed at compressor and turbine blades in automated cells.
The LX 021 spins its HSK-A40 spindle to 30,000 RPM, against 14,000 rpm standard on the a500iR, which offers 20,000 and 24,000 rpm options with a CAT40 or HSK-A63 taper. Tooling depends on configuration: the a500iR carries 90 tools as standard, while the LX 021 starts with a 30-tool disk magazine and goes up to 90.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Makino a500iR | Starrag LX 021 |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 900 mm (35.4 in) ▲ | 400 mm (15.75 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 750 mm (29.5 in) ▲ | 200 mm (7.87 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 800 mm (31.5 in) ▲ | 410 mm (16.14 in) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 14,000 rpm (standard) / 20,000 and 24,000 (optional) | 30,000 RPM ▲ |
| Spindle Taper / Nose | CAT40 (std/14k) / HSK-A63 (opt/14k; req'd/20k & 24k) | HSK-A40 (HSK-T40) |
| Tool Capacity | 90 tools (standard) / 133, 218, 311 tools (optional) | 30 (standard disk magazine), up to 90 |
Advantages
Makino a500iR
- 900 mm X and 750 mm Y travel against 400 mm and 200 mm
- 800 mm Z travel against 410 mm
- Room for general five-axis parts with undercut features
Starrag LX 021
- 30,000 RPM spindle against 14,000 rpm standard
- Compact envelope built around compressor and turbine blades, with robotic loading for lights-out cells
Verdict
Choose the Starrag LX 021 for volume production of compressor and turbine blades in nickel and titanium alloys, where its 30,000 RPM HSK-A40 spindle and compact 400 x 200 x 410 mm envelope fit the part. Choose the Makino a500iR for general five-axis work, including parts with undercut features and structural aluminum, that needs 900 x 750 x 800 mm of travel.