Chiron FZ 18W

The Chiron FZ 18W is a single-spindle, 5-axis machining center with an integrated workpiece changer, built on Chiron's 18 Series platform. The "W" designation marks the inclusion of automated pallet exchange, enabling the operator to load and unload parts outside the machining zone while the spindle cuts. Chiron highlights this machine for "flexible machining" applications including automotive wheel machining in sizes from 16 to 24 inches, demonstrating the versatility of the larger 18 Series work envelope.

With X/Y/Z travels of 730 x 560 x 500 mm (28.7 x 22.0 x 19.7 in), the FZ 18W handles medium-size parts that exceed the capacity of the 15 and 16 Series. The integrated workpiece changer swings pallets into the machining zone with minimal changeover time, pushing spindle utilization above 90% in production settings. The machine features linear direct drives on all linear axes, direct-drive A and C rotary axes, and a mineral-cast bed for vibration damping and thermal stability.

Spindle options include the HSK-A63 at 20,000 RPM for high-speed aluminum work and the HSK-A100 with 400 Nm of torque for steel and titanium. The basket-type tool changer accommodates up to 60 tools with fast chip-to-chip times. Workpiece capacity reaches 800 mm diameter and 400 kg per pallet position, making the FZ 18W capable of handling larger automotive and aerospace parts.

New FZ 18W machines price between $475,000 and $650,000, with the workpiece changer adding roughly $40,000-$60,000 over the fixed-table FZ 18S. The machine competes with the Hermle C 400 with handling system, DMG Mori DMU 80 P with pallet changer, and the Chiron DZ 18W for shops that need twin-spindle production. Used units from 2017-2023 trade between $250,000 and $450,000.

The FZ 18W's unique strength is combining a production-oriented workpiece changer with a work envelope large enough for parts like automotive wheels, medium structural components, and larger medical devices — applications where smaller pallet-changer machines fall short on envelope and larger machines are overkill.