Machine Comparison
Niles-Simmons N20 MC vs Niles-Simmons N40 MC
Niles-Simmons vs Niles-Simmons · Mill-Turn Machines
Summary
The Niles-Simmons N20 MC and Niles-Simmons N40 MC are both from Niles-Simmons's mill-turn machines lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the Niles-Simmons ecosystem. The Niles-Simmons N40 MC leads in x travel (450 mm (17.7 in) vs 300 mm (11.8 in)). The Niles-Simmons N40 MC shows specification advantages in 7 categories, though the Niles-Simmons N20 MC 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 mill-turn machine.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Niles-Simmons N20 MC | Niles-Simmons N40 MC |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 300 mm (11.8 in) | 450 mm (17.7 in) ▲ |
| Y-Axis Travel | +/-100 mm (+/-3.94 in) | +/-125 mm (+/-4.92 in) ▲ |
| Z-Axis Travel | 3,000 mm (118.1 in) standard | 3,000 - 6,000 mm (118.1 - 236.2 in) |
| Max Turning Length | 3,000 mm (118.1 in) standard | 3,000 - 6,000 mm (118.1 - 236.2 in) configurable |
| Control | Siemens 840D SL | Siemens 840D SL |
| Max Swing Diameter | 600 mm (23.6 in) | 800 mm (31.5 in) ▲ |
| Main Spindle Power | 45 kW (60 hp) continuous | 65 kW (87 hp) continuous ▲ |
| Main Spindle Speed | 3,000 rpm ▲ | 2,000 rpm |
| Main Spindle Bore | 100 mm (3.94 in) | 130 mm (5.12 in) ▲ |
| Milling Spindle Power | 22 kW (30 hp) | 30 kW (40 hp) ▲ |
| Milling Spindle Speed | 12,000 rpm ▲ | 10,000 rpm |
| B Axis Range | +/-120 degrees | +/-120 degrees |
| B Axis Resolution | 0.001 degree | 0.001 degree |
| Tool Magazine Capacity | 40 - 80 tools | 60 - 120 tools ▲ |
| Price Range | $400,000 - $650,000 ▲ | $700,000 - $1,200,000 |
Advantages
Niles-Simmons N20 MC
- Superior main spindle speed at 3,000 rpm vs 2,000 rpm
- Superior milling spindle speed at 12,000 rpm vs 10,000 rpm
- More competitive pricing at $400,000 - $650,000 compared to $700,000 - $1,200,000
Niles-Simmons N40 MC
- Greater x travel of 450 mm (17.7 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater y travel of +/-125 mm (+/-4.92 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Superior max swing diameter at 800 mm (31.5 in) vs 600 mm (23.6 in)
- Superior main spindle power at 65 kW (87 hp) continuous vs 45 kW (60 hp) continuous
- Superior main spindle bore at 130 mm (5.12 in) vs 100 mm (3.94 in)
Verdict
The Niles-Simmons N40 MC edges ahead on specifications in this comparison, particularly in X Travel and Y Travel. However, the Niles-Simmons N20 MC 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.