Chiron DZ 12W

$450,000 - $575,000 Updated 2025-03-15

Key Specifications

X Travel

380 mm (15.0 in) per spindle

Y Travel

400 mm (15.7 in) per spindle

Z Travel

330 mm (13.0 in) per spindle

Max Spindle

Up to 40,000 RPM (2 spindles)

Spindle Taper

HSK-E40 or HSK-A63

Tool Capacity

Up to 2 x 37 tools

Overview

The Chiron DZ 12W combines twin-spindle machining with an integrated workpiece changer, creating one of the most productive configurations in the Series 12 lineup. The "DZ" indicates dual spindle and the "W" designates the workpiece changer — together they deliver doubled output from two spindles running simultaneously while parts are loaded and unloaded outside the machining zone during the cutting cycle.

The DZ 12W features two motorspindles, each with X/Y/Z travels of approximately 380 x 400 x 330 mm. Both spindles reach up to 40,000 RPM with HSK-E40 or HSK-A63 interfaces and execute the same CNC program in parallel. Rapid traverse speeds reach up to 100 m/min with chip-to-chip times under 2.5 seconds. The workpiece changer swaps both fixtures simultaneously, minimizing the time between cycles.

This configuration targets the highest possible output from the compact Series 12 envelope. The twin spindles double per-cycle output, and the workpiece changer eliminates load/unload downtime. In a well-planned production environment with dedicated operator or robotic loading, the DZ 12W achieves spindle utilization rates above 90% while producing two parts every cycle.

The mineral-cast machine bed provides the rigidity and vibration isolation needed for two spindles cutting simultaneously at high speeds. Each spindle has its own tool magazine with up to 37 tools. The machine runs on Siemens SINUMERIK 840D sl. This is a pure production machine for shops running very high volumes of identical small parts. New DZ 12W machines typically price between $450,000 and $575,000.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
X-Axis Travel	380 mm (15.0 in) per spindle
Y-Axis Travel	400 mm (15.7 in) per spindle
Z-Axis Travel	330 mm (13.0 in) per spindle
Max Spindle Speed	Up to 40,000 RPM (2 spindles)
Spindle Taper	HSK-E40 or HSK-A63
Spindle Configuration	Twin-spindle (DZ)
Tool Capacity	Up to 2 x 37 tools
Chip To Chip	< 2.5 sec
Rapid Traverse Rate	Up to 100 m/min (3,937 ipm)
Workpiece Changer	Integrated 2-station
Machine Bed	Mineral cast
Machine Design	Dual-spindle gantry with workpiece changer
CNC Control	Siemens SINUMERIK 840D sl
Thermal Management	Water-cooled drives

Specifications sourced from chiron-group.com — verified 2026-03-28

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

Twin-spindle plus workpiece changer is the highest-throughput configuration in the Series 12, maximizing output per square meter
Two parts per cycle with automated part exchange eliminates virtually all non-productive time from the manufacturing process
40,000 RPM on both spindles delivers exceptional high-speed cutting capability across both cutting positions
Spindle utilization above 90% is achievable with proper fixture design and operator/robotic loading workflow
100 m/min rapids and sub-2.5-second tool changes minimize every source of non-cutting time in the cycle
Single operator can manage the DZ 12W with the workpiece changer handling part exchange timing

Limitations

Both spindles must run the same program — no flexibility for different parts between spindle positions
Starting price around $450,000 is significant and requires very high volumes (30,000+ parts/year) for clear ROI
380 x 400 x 330 mm travel restricts the machine to small parts only
Dual-spindle plus workpiece changer adds mechanical complexity and maintenance requirements compared to the simpler FZ 12S
37 tools per spindle may limit complex-part capability, and both magazines must carry identical tool sets

Best For

Automotive tier-1 and tier-2 suppliers running 50,000+ identical small parts per year where cost per piece must be minimized Medical device companies with high-volume production of standardized implants and components requiring maximum output Electronics manufacturers producing matching precision housings and components at volumes justifying twin-spindle automation Production facilities replacing dedicated transfer lines with flexible CNC twin-spindle solutions Shops already running FZ 12S or DZ 12S machines that need additional throughput without additional floor space or operators Any high-volume small-parts operation where the combination of twin-spindle output and workpiece changer utilization drives competitive advantage

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What does a new Chiron DZ 12W cost?

New DZ 12W machines typically price between $450,000 and $575,000. This is the most expensive Series 12 configuration due to the twin spindles and workpiece changer. The investment is justified by maximum throughput and spindle utilization in high-volume production.

02 How does the DZ 12W compare to the DZ 12S?

Both have twin spindles producing two identical parts per cycle. The DZ 12W adds the workpiece changer, which eliminates load/unload downtime between cycles. The DZ 12S requires the operator to load parts in the machining zone. The DZ 12W achieves higher spindle utilization and throughput at a higher purchase price.

03 What volume makes the DZ 12W worthwhile?

The DZ 12W makes financial sense at very high volumes — typically 30,000 or more identical parts per year. At lower volumes, the DZ 12S (without workpiece changer) or even the single-spindle FZ 12W may provide better value. The DZ 12W targets maximum throughput applications.

04 Can the DZ 12W be robotically loaded?

Yes. The workpiece changer's external loading station is designed for both manual operator loading and robotic loading systems. Robotic loading enables fully unattended production, maximizing the twin-spindle output over extended shifts and weekends.

05 How does total output compare to two separate FZ 12S machines?

The DZ 12W produces approximately 2x the output of a single FZ 12S in less floor space and with one operator instead of two. Compared to two separate FZ 12S machines, the DZ 12W also adds the workpiece changer benefit, providing 10-20% more throughput than two FZ 12S machines combined.