Machine Comparison
Makino a500iR vs Willemin-Macodel 701S
Makino vs Willemin-Macodel · 5-Axis Machining Centers
Summary
The Makino a500iR and the Willemin-Macodel 701S are five-axis machines from different size classes, and they serve different jobs. The makers publish few comparable figures for this pair, so the comparison rests on travel and spindle speed. The a500iR is a general five-axis machining center; the 701S is a micro-machining center for small medical, watch and electronics parts.
The a500iR has 900 x 750 x 800 mm of X/Y/Z travel against 200 x 150 x 250 mm on the 701S, so it takes far larger parts. The 701S spins to 36,000 rpm, against 14,000 rpm standard on the a500iR, which offers 20,000 and 24,000 rpm spindles as options. That speed suits the small tools that micro-parts need.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Makino a500iR | Willemin-Macodel 701S |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 900 mm (35.4 in) ▲ | 200 mm (7.87 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 750 mm (29.5 in) ▲ | 150 mm (5.91 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 800 mm (31.5 in) ▲ | 250 mm (9.84 in) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 14,000 rpm (standard) / 20,000 and 24,000 (optional) | 36,000 rpm ▲ |
Advantages
Makino a500iR
- 900 mm X travel against 200 mm
- 750 mm Y and 800 mm Z travel against 150 mm and 250 mm
Willemin-Macodel 701S
- 36,000 rpm spindle against 14,000 rpm standard
- Compact envelope aimed at dental implants, watch components and other micro-parts
Verdict
Choose the Willemin-Macodel 701S for micro-parts such as dental implants, watch movement components and miniature connectors, where its 36,000 rpm spindle suits small tools and every feature fits within 200 x 150 x 250 mm. Choose the Makino a500iR for general five-axis parts that need up to 900 mm of X travel and 800 mm of Z, including undercut features and structural aluminum work.