Machine Comparison
Makino UPV-3 vs Makino UPV-5
Makino vs Makino · Wire EDM
Summary
The Makino UPV-3 and Makino UPV-5 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 UPV-5 leads in x travel (500 mm (19.7 in) vs 370 mm (14.6 in)). The Makino UPV-5 shows specification advantages in 8 categories, though the Makino UPV-3 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 UPV-3 | Makino UPV-5 |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 370 mm (14.6 in) | 500 mm (19.7 in) ▲ |
| Y-Axis Travel | 270 mm (10.6 in) | 400 mm (15.7 in) ▲ |
| Z-Axis Travel | 220 mm (8.7 in) | 310 mm (12.2 in) ▲ |
| Table Size | 500 x 350 mm (19.7 x 13.8 in) | 700 x 500 mm (27.6 x 19.7 in) ▲ |
| Accuracy | +/-0.001 mm (+/-0.00004 in) | +/-0.001 mm (+/-0.00004 in) |
| Repeatability | +/-0.0005 mm | +/-0.0005 mm |
| Control | Makino Hyper-i (touchscreen) | Makino Hyper-i (touchscreen) |
| U Axis | +/-50 mm (+/-2.0 in) | +/-75 mm (+/-3.0 in) ▲ |
| V Axis | +/-50 mm (+/-2.0 in) | +/-75 mm (+/-3.0 in) ▲ |
| Max Workpiece Size | 500 x 350 x 220 mm (19.7 x 13.8 x 8.7 in) | 800 x 600 x 310 mm (31.5 x 23.6 x 12.2 in) ▲ |
| Max Workpiece Weight | 200 kg (441 lb) | 500 kg (1,102 lb) ▲ |
| Wire Diameter Range | 0.05 - 0.30 mm (0.002 - 0.012 in) | 0.05 - 0.30 mm (0.002 - 0.012 in) |
| Surface Finish | 0.05 um Ra (2 uin Ra) | 0.05 um Ra (2 uin Ra) |
| Dielectric System | Temperature-controlled deionized water | Temperature-controlled deionized water |
| Price Range | $200,000 - $280,000 ▲ | $250,000 - $340,000 |
Advantages
Makino UPV-3
- More competitive pricing at $200,000 - $280,000 compared to $250,000 - $340,000
- Backed by Makino's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Connector mold shops cutting ultra-fine features and pin pitches that demand sub-micron accuracy
Makino UPV-5
- Greater x travel of 500 mm (19.7 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater y travel of 400 mm (15.7 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater z travel of 310 mm (12.2 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Superior table size at 700 x 500 mm (27.6 x 19.7 in) vs 500 x 350 mm (19.7 x 13.8 in)
- Superior u axis at +/-75 mm (+/-3.0 in) vs +/-50 mm (+/-2.0 in)
Verdict
The Makino UPV-5 edges ahead on specifications in this comparison, particularly in X Travel and Y Travel. However, the Makino UPV-3 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.