ANCA TX7
Key Specifications
X Travel
Y Travel
Z Travel
Max Spindle
Spindle Power
axes
Overview
The ANCA TX7 is a specialized 5-axis CNC tool grinding machine designed specifically for the production and resharpening of indexable cutting tool inserts, including complex geometries like threading inserts, grooving inserts, and milling inserts with peripheral and face geometries. Unlike ANCA's FX7 and MX7 platforms that focus on round shank tools (end mills, drills, reamers), the TX7 is purpose-built for the unique requirements of insert grinding — a segment that demands different kinematics, fixturing, and software.
The TX7 features a compact work envelope with X/Y/Z travels of 310 x 200 x 200 mm (12.2 x 7.9 x 7.9 in), appropriate for the small parts being ground. The spindle delivers 12 kW (16 hp) at speeds up to 8,000 RPM, driving grinding wheels up to 150 mm (5.9 in) diameter. The machine uses LinX linear motors on the primary axes for backlash-free positioning, matching the technology used across ANCA's platform. The A-axis rotary provides 360-degree continuous rotation, while the C-axis provides workholding rotation for indexing insert faces during multi-feature grinding cycles.
ANCA's dedicated insert grinding software handles the complex geometry calculations required for threading inserts (including partial profiles, full profiles, and multi-tooth designs), grooving inserts with chip-breaker features, and milling inserts with both peripheral and axial cutting edges. The software supports parametric geometry definition, allowing operators to modify insert dimensions quickly for different sizes within a product family without reprogramming from scratch.
The TX7 can be equipped with an automatic pallet loader for unattended production of insert batches. Wheel dressing is integrated into the machine cycle. The machine's compact footprint of approximately 1,800 x 1,600 mm makes it suitable for installation in tight production areas. New TX7 machines price in the $250,000 to $380,000 range. The TX7 competes with machines from Walter (Helitronic), Vollmer, and Agathon in the insert grinding segment.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Axes | 5 (X, Y, Z linear + A, C rotary) |
| X-Axis Travel | 310 mm (12.2 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 200 mm (7.9 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 200 mm (7.9 in) |
| A Axis | 360° continuous rotation |
| C Axis | Workholding rotation for insert indexing |
| Max Spindle Speed | 8,000 RPM |
| Spindle Motor Power | 37 kW (49 HP) peak 15 kW (25 HP) S1 |
| Max Grinding Wheel Diameter | 150 mm (5.9 in) |
| Axis Drives | LinX linear motors with linear scales |
| Insert Types | Threading, grooving, milling, turning inserts |
| Wheel Dressing | Integrated automatic |
| Machine Dimensions | 1,800 x 1,600 mm (70.9 x 63 in) approx. |
| CNC Control | ANCA CNC with dedicated insert grinding software |
| Machine Weight | 4,500 kg (9,921 lb) approx. |
| Machine Structure | Bi-Symmetrical Gantry |
| Wheel Packs | 2 x Ø 203 mm (8”) max |
| Tool Diameter | Productive up to Ø 32 mm (1¼”) |
| Tool Length Flute Length May Vary Depending On Tooling Max | 400 mm (16”) |
| Loader Type | RoboMate (option) |
| Max Tool Capacity | 2520 x Ø 3 mm 1560 x Ø 6 mm 462 x Ø 16 mm 189 x Ø 25 mm 105 x Ø 32 mm |
| Drive System | Linear Motor |
| Dimensions | 2561 mm (100.8”) W *with RoboMate 1500 mm (59”) D 2643 mm (104”) W* 2272 mm (89.4”) H 2260 (89") D* |
| Cnc Details | ANCA AMC5, EtherCAT, high performance CNC, 8GB RAM, H/D 64GB SSD, Processor i7, Windows 8 |
| Machine Colours | RAL 7035 / RAL 5008 |
Specifications sourced from machines.anca.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- Purpose-built for insert grinding with dedicated software and kinematics optimized for threading, grooving, and milling insert geometries — not a round-tool grinder adapted for inserts
- LinX linear motor drives provide backlash-free positioning and high dynamic response, critical for the tight tolerances and surface finishes required on indexable insert cutting edges
- Parametric geometry definition in the software allows rapid size changes within insert families without reprogramming, dramatically reducing setup time for multi-size production batches
- Compact 1,800 x 1,600 mm footprint fits into existing production areas without major floor space reconfiguration
- Integrated automatic wheel dressing maintains wheel geometry throughout production runs, ensuring consistent insert edge quality from first to last part
- Automatic pallet loader option enables unattended batch production of insert sets, critical for cutting tool manufacturers running multiple insert geometries per shift
Limitations
- Dedicated insert grinding focus means the TX7 cannot efficiently grind round shank tools — shops needing both insert and round-tool grinding require separate machines (FX7 or MX7)
- 8,000 RPM spindle speed is lower than the FX7's capability, which may limit some high-speed superabrasive grinding strategies with small diamond wheels
- ANCA's service network, while global, is smaller than Walter/Ewag (United Grinding) for insert grinding applications, particularly in Europe
- 150 mm maximum wheel diameter limits the size of inserts that can be ground in a single setup compared to larger-format insert grinding machines
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
New ANCA TX7 machines typically price between $250,000 and $380,000 depending on configuration. Key options that affect price include pallet loader automation, additional wheel packs, coolant filtration systems, and software modules for specific insert geometries. Used TX7 units are relatively rare on the secondary market due to limited production volume, but when available trade in the $120,000-$200,000 range.
02
The TX7 handles threading inserts (full profile, partial profile, multi-tooth), grooving inserts (face groove, OD groove, cutoff), milling inserts (peripheral and face cutting edges, with chip-breaker features), and general-purpose turning inserts. The machine grinds carbide, cermet, CBN, and PCD insert materials. ANCA's software includes parametric templates for standard ISO insert geometries as well as custom profile definition tools.
03
The FX7 and MX7 are designed for round shank tools (end mills, drills, reamers, taps) and are not optimized for insert grinding. The TX7 uses different kinematics, workholding, and software specifically designed for the flat, multi-faceted geometries of indexable inserts. If your primary product is inserts, the TX7 is the correct choice. If you grind round tools and occasionally need to sharpen an insert, the FX7/MX7 may be able to accommodate simple insert geometries with custom fixturing.
04
Yes, the TX7's 5-axis capability and dedicated software support grinding chip-breaker geometries directly on insert faces. The software includes parametric chip-breaker templates that can be customized for specific materials and cutting conditions. This eliminates the need for a separate sintering or pressing operation to create chip-breaker features, which is valuable for small-batch specialty inserts and prototype development.
05
The TX7 achieves edge radii control within +/- 5 microns on carbide inserts, with surface roughness values of Ra 0.2 microns or better on ground faces. These values meet the requirements for precision machining inserts in aerospace alloys and hardened steels. ANCA's linear motor drives and integrated wheel dressing contribute to the consistency of edge preparation across full production batches.
06
Yes, ANCA offers an automatic pallet loader for the TX7 that can hold multiple pallets of inserts for unattended batch grinding. The system handles loading and unloading individual inserts between pallets and the grinding position. Combined with integrated wheel dressing and automatic compensation, the TX7 can run extended unattended production shifts. Typical pallet capacity supports 200-500 inserts per load depending on insert size.
Videos
Koster Industries
ANCA CNC Machines
KD Machinery
KD Machinery
Asset Exchange
Community Discussions
Community discussion — Anca T & C grinder question - Practical Machinist
Pricing and buying discussion — Anca or Walter - Practical Machinist
Community discussion — $27.00 to sharpen hss drill on ANCA - CNCzone
Troubleshooting and problem-solving — Need Help! Anca Mode Regrind - CNCzone
Community discussion — Hands up if you own a Hercus PC 200 or PC160 or Anca
Troubleshooting and problem-solving — TRAUB TX7 serial connection - cnczone.com
Community discussion — Need advice setting up steady rest on. Anca Mx7 fitted with P ...
Options and configuration advice — Walter Raptor/ Anca MX7 : r/Machinists - Reddit
Community discussion — TRAK Machine Tools : r/Machinists - Reddit
Community discussion — How to get a Stuck HSK type holder off? : r/Machinists - Reddit
Links to community discussions. Summaries are editorial — visit the original thread for full context.




