Machine Comparison
Makino U6 H.E.A.T. Extreme vs Makino U86
Makino vs Makino · Wire EDM
Summary
The Makino U6 H.E.A.T. Extreme and Makino U86 are both from Makino's wire edm lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the Makino ecosystem. The Makino U86 leads in x travel (800 mm (31.5 in) vs 650 mm (25.6 in)). The Makino U86 shows specification advantages in 8 categories, though the Makino U6 H.E.A.T. Extreme may still be the better choice depending on your shop's specific needs and the type of work you run. Both machines are proven performers in production environments and represent solid investments for shops in the market for a wire edm.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Makino U6 H.E.A.T. Extreme | Makino U86 |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 650 mm (25.6 in) | 800 mm (31.5 in) ▲ |
| Y-Axis Travel | 450 mm (17.7 in) | 600 mm (23.6 in) ▲ |
| Z-Axis Travel | 420 mm (16.5 in) | 500 mm (19.7 in) ▲ |
| Table Size | 900 x 650 mm (35.4 x 25.6 in) | 1,100 x 800 mm (43.3 x 31.5 in) ▲ |
| Accuracy | +/-0.002 mm (+/-0.00008 in) | +/-0.003 mm (+/-0.00012 in) |
| Control | Makino Hyper-i (touchscreen, H.E.A.T. databases) | Makino Hyper-i (touchscreen) |
| U Axis | +/-80 mm (+/-3.1 in) | +/-100 mm (+/-3.9 in) ▲ |
| V Axis | +/-80 mm (+/-3.1 in) | +/-100 mm (+/-3.9 in) ▲ |
| Max Workpiece Size | 900 x 650 x 420 mm (35.4 x 25.6 x 16.5 in) | 1,100 x 800 x 500 mm (43.3 x 31.5 x 19.7 in) ▲ |
| Max Workpiece Weight | 1,000 kg (2,205 lb) | 1,500 kg (3,307 lb) ▲ |
| Wire Diameter Range | 0.15 - 0.30 mm (0.006 - 0.012 in) | 0.15 - 0.30 mm (0.006 - 0.012 in) |
| Taper Angle | +/-30 degrees (at reduced height) ▲ | +/-25 degrees (at reduced height) |
| Surface Finish | 0.15 um Ra (6 uin Ra) | 0.15 um Ra (6 uin Ra) |
| Generator | Makino H.E.A.T. Extreme high-energy generator | Makino high-performance digital AC generator |
| Price Range | $250,000 - $340,000 ▲ | $320,000 - $440,000 |
Advantages
Makino U6 H.E.A.T. Extreme
- Superior taper angle at +/-30 degrees (at reduced height) vs +/-25 degrees (at reduced height)
- More competitive pricing at $250,000 - $340,000 compared to $320,000 - $440,000
- Backed by Makino's dealer and service network for parts and support
- High-volume die/mold shops where wire EDM cycle time directly impacts delivery schedules and capacity
Makino U86
- Greater x travel of 800 mm (31.5 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater y travel of 600 mm (23.6 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater z travel of 500 mm (19.7 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Superior table size at 1,100 x 800 mm (43.3 x 31.5 in) vs 900 x 650 mm (35.4 x 25.6 in)
- Superior u axis at +/-100 mm (+/-3.9 in) vs +/-80 mm (+/-3.1 in)
Verdict
The Makino U86 edges ahead on specifications in this comparison, particularly in X Travel and Y Travel. However, the Makino U6 H.E.A.T. Extreme remains competitive and may be the better choice depending on price, dealer support in your area, or specific workholding and tooling considerations. Both are capable machines — the best decision comes from running your actual parts and evaluating total cost of ownership including tooling, training, and service.