Brother Speedio U500Xd1
Key Specifications
Spindle Taper
Table Size
Accuracy
Repeatability
x axis travel
y axis travel
Overview
The Brother Speedio U500Xd1 is a high-production VMC in the XD1 generation Speedio lineup, featuring a 500 mm X-travel envelope paired with an upward column traverse (U-axis) configuration that improves chip evacuation and enables front-loading automation. It is the direct predecessor to the U500Xd2.
X/Y/Z travels are 500 x 400 x 305 mm. The spindle runs at 16,000 rpm with 7.5 kW on BT30 taper. The 21-tool turret delivers the signature Speedio 0.9-second chip-to-chip change. Rapids are 50 m/min on X/Y and 56 m/min on Z.
The U-series design positions the column and Z-axis drive differently from the standard S-series, allowing better chip and coolant flow from the work area — a key advantage for high-volume production runs where chip management affects cycle time and part quality.
Positioning accuracy is +/- 0.004 mm with repeatability of +/- 0.002 mm. Table load capacity is 200 kg. Machine weight is approximately 3,100 kg. Footprint is 1,650 x 2,340 mm.
The XD1 series improved servo performance over the base U500X1. Used units offer excellent value for production cells as XD2 machines become the current generation.
New machines (when available) price $95,000-$140,000. Used units from 2016-2021 trade $50,000-$88,000.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Table Size | 500 x 400 mm (19.7 x 15.7 in) |
| X Axis Travel | 500 mm (19.7 in) |
| Y Axis Travel | 400 mm (15.7 in) |
| Z Axis Travel | 305 mm (12.0 in) |
| Spindle Speed | 16,000 rpm |
| Spindle Motor | 7.5 kW (10 hp) |
| Spindle Taper | BT30 |
| Tool Magazine | 21-position turret |
| Chip To Chip Time | 0.9 seconds |
| Rapid Traverse Xy | 50 m/min (1,969 ipm) |
| Rapid Traverse Z | 56 m/min (2,205 ipm) |
| Positioning Accuracy | +/- 0.004 mm |
| Repeatability | +/- 0.002 mm |
| Table Load Capacity | 200 kg (441 lb) |
| CNC Control | Brother CNC-C00 |
| Machine Weight | 3,100 kg (6,834 lb) |
| Floor Space Required | 1,650 x 2,340 mm (65 x 92 in) |
| Power Supply | 200/220V, 3-phase |
Specifications sourced from yamazen.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- U-series column configuration improves chip and coolant evacuation
- 0.9s chip-to-chip time maintains Speedio production speed advantage
- 500 mm X-travel handles medium to large small-parts fixtures
- XD1 servo refinements reduce non-cutting time vs base X1 generation
- Front-loading design is well-suited for robotic automation
- Proven BT30 high-speed architecture for aluminum-class production
Limitations
- BT30 spindle limits the machine to non-ferrous and light steel work
- XD1 generation is superseded; new availability may require special order
- 305 mm Z-travel is common limitation across all Speedio VMC models
- 21-tool turret capacity constrains programs with many unique tools
- U-series command a slight premium over S-series equivalents
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
New $95,000-$140,000. Used $50,000-$88,000.
02
The U-series uses a column traverse configuration that improves chip evacuation from the work zone. Travel and spindle specs are similar to the equivalent S-series model.
03
The Xd2 added further servo improvements. Functionally very similar; used Xd1 units offer better price-to-performance ratio.
04
Standard 16,000 rpm. Optional high-speed spindle configurations up to 30,000 rpm were available on some factory build sheets.
05
Yes, widely used in automated cells. Front-access architecture matches other Speedio models for standard robotic integration.
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