Machine Comparison
Makino U86 vs Makino UPN-01
Makino vs Makino · Wire EDM
Summary
The Makino U86 and Makino UPN-01 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 200 mm (7.9 in)). On paper, the Makino U86 edges ahead with advantages in 11 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 wire edm.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Makino U86 | Makino UPN-01 |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 800 mm (31.5 in) ▲ | 200 mm (7.9 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 600 mm (23.6 in) ▲ | 130 mm (5.1 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 500 mm (19.7 in) ▲ | 100 mm (3.9 in) |
| Table Size | 1,100 x 800 mm (43.3 x 31.5 in) ▲ | 300 x 200 mm (11.8 x 7.9 in) |
| Accuracy | +/-0.003 mm (+/-0.00012 in) | +/-0.001 mm (+/-0.00004 in) |
| Control | Makino Hyper-i (touchscreen) | Makino Hyper-i (touchscreen) |
| U Axis | +/-100 mm (+/-3.9 in) ▲ | +/-25 mm (+/-1.0 in) |
| V Axis | +/-100 mm (+/-3.9 in) ▲ | +/-25 mm (+/-1.0 in) |
| Max Workpiece Size | 1,100 x 800 x 500 mm (43.3 x 31.5 x 19.7 in) ▲ | 300 x 200 x 100 mm (11.8 x 7.9 x 3.9 in) |
| Max Workpiece Weight | 1,500 kg (3,307 lb) ▲ | 50 kg (110 lb) |
| Wire Diameter Range | 0.15 - 0.30 mm (0.006 - 0.012 in) ▲ | 0.02 - 0.20 mm (0.0008 - 0.008 in) |
| Surface Finish | 0.15 um Ra (6 uin Ra) ▲ | 0.05 um Ra (2 uin Ra) |
| Generator | Makino high-performance digital AC generator | Makino micro-finishing generator |
| Tank Size | 1,400 x 1,050 x 570 mm (55.1 x 41.3 x 22.4 in) ▲ | Compact submerged cutting tank |
| Price Range | $320,000 - $440,000 | $180,000 - $250,000 ▲ |
Advantages
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 300 x 200 mm (11.8 x 7.9 in)
- Superior u axis at +/-100 mm (+/-3.9 in) vs +/-25 mm (+/-1.0 in)
Makino UPN-01
- More competitive pricing at $180,000 - $250,000 compared to $320,000 - $440,000
- Backed by Makino's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Connector mold shops cutting micro-pitch features below 0.1 mm that require ultra-fine wire
Verdict
The Makino U86 holds a spec advantage in this comparison, but the right choice depends on your shop's priorities. If the Makino U86's strengths in areas like X Travel and Y Travel align with your work, it's the clear pick. The Makino UPN-01 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.