Chiron FZ 12S

$275,000 - $375,000 Updated 2025-03-15

Key Specifications

X Travel

380 mm (15.0 in)

Y Travel

400 mm (15.7 in)

Z Travel

330 mm (13.0 in)

Max Spindle

Up to 40,000 RPM

Spindle Taper

HSK-E40 or HSK-A63

Tool Capacity

Up to 37 tools

Overview

The Chiron FZ 12S is a high-speed single-spindle vertical machining center from the Series 12 platform, designed for rapid cycle times on small-to-medium components in automotive, medical, and electronics production. The "FZ" indicates single spindle, and the "S" designates the swivel-head configuration that provides up to 5-axis positioning capability with high dynamics.

The FZ 12S features X/Y/Z travels of approximately 380 x 400 x 330 mm, optimized for compact production parts. The motorspindle reaches up to 40,000 RPM with HSK-E40 or HSK-A63 interface options, delivering exceptional high-speed cutting performance for aluminum and precision finishing operations. Rapid traverse speeds reach up to 100 m/min, reflecting Chiron's focus on minimizing non-cutting time in every cycle.

The mineral-cast machine bed provides vibration damping and thermal stability superior to cast iron. The pick-up tool changer handles up to 37 tools with chip-to-chip times under 2.5 seconds. The compact gantry design keeps the footprint small while maintaining rigidity for consistent precision across high-volume production shifts.

The FZ 12S runs on Siemens SINUMERIK 840D sl and can be equipped with automation interfaces for pallet loading and part handling. This machine targets production environments where parts fit within its compact envelope and cycle time is the primary performance metric. Competitors include the Brother Speedio S700X2, Fanuc Robodrill, and DMG Mori CMX 600 V. New FZ 12S machines typically price between $275,000 and $375,000.

Full Specifications

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

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

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

Up to 40,000 RPM spindle speed delivers exceptional high-speed cutting for aluminum and precision finishing operations
Rapid traverse up to 100 m/min minimizes positioning time between cuts, driving down cycle times on production parts
Chip-to-chip time under 2.5 seconds keeps total cycle times competitive on multi-tool parts
Mineral-cast bed provides superior vibration damping for excellent surface finish quality at high cutting speeds
Compact footprint allows dense machine layouts for maximum production output per square meter
Proven Chiron gantry design maintains rigidity and precision through high-volume production runs

Limitations

380 x 400 x 330 mm travel limits the FZ 12S to small parts — not suitable for medium or large components
HSK-E40 tooling option is specialized and more expensive than standard BT40 or HSK-A63 toolholders
37-tool magazine may be limiting for complex parts requiring extensive tooling, though adequate for most production work
Chiron's service network in North America is smaller than Haas, Mazak, or Fanuc Robodrill support infrastructure
Starting price around $275,000 is premium compared to the Fanuc Robodrill for similar-envelope high-speed work

Best For

Automotive production of small precision components — sensor housings, valve bodies, connectors — where cycle time drives competitiveness Medical device manufacturers machining small implant components and surgical instrument parts at high speeds Electronics manufacturers producing precision housings, heat sinks, and structural components from aluminum High-volume production environments running thousands of identical small parts per shift Shops needing Chiron-level speed and precision for small parts without the larger footprint and cost of the FZ 16S Aluminum machining specialists where 40,000 RPM spindle speed provides a competitive advantage over conventional machines

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What does a new Chiron FZ 12S cost?

New FZ 12S machines typically price between $275,000 and $375,000 depending on spindle selection, tooling package, and automation options. The high-speed 40,000 RPM spindle option adds to the base price. The FZ 12S is one of Chiron's most affordable production platforms.

02 How does the FZ 12S compare to the Fanuc Robodrill?

Both target high-speed production of small parts. The Robodrill is less expensive with faster tool changes. The FZ 12S counters with a mineral-cast bed for better vibration damping, higher spindle speed options (40,000 vs 24,000 RPM), and superior rigidity for tighter tolerances. The Robodrill wins on price; the FZ 12S wins on precision and speed.

03 Is the FZ 12S a 5-axis machine?

The S designation provides a swivel axis for up to 5-axis positioning (3+2). For full simultaneous 5-axis capability, consider the FZ 12S with 5-axis option or step up to the FZ 16S Five Axis. The standard FZ 12S excels at high-speed 3-axis and 3+2 positioning work.

04 What is the difference between FZ 12S and DZ 12S?

The FZ 12S is single-spindle; the DZ 12S is dual-spindle. The DZ 12S machines two identical parts simultaneously, doubling output. Choose the FZ for flexibility with different parts; choose the DZ for maximum throughput on identical parts.

05 Can the FZ 12S cut steel?

Yes, with appropriate spindle selection. The HSK-A63 spindle option provides more torque for steel cutting. The 40,000 RPM HSK-E40 option is optimized for aluminum and finishing. For primarily steel applications, consider the HSK-A63 spindle or a different Chiron platform with more torque.