DMG Mori CTX alpha 500
Key Specifications
Max Spindle
Rapid Traverse
Spindle Power
Max Turn Length
max turning diameter
spindle torque
Overview
The DMG Mori CTX alpha 500 is a compact universal turning center positioned at the accessible entry point of DMG Mori's CTX alpha series. With a maximum turning diameter of 320 mm (12.6 in) and a turning length of 500 mm (19.7 in), it targets job shops and production environments that need German-quality construction in a smaller footprint. The machine shares the fundamental CTX architecture — 45-degree slant-bed casting, thermo-symmetric design, and integrated CELOS control — but packages it in a cost-optimized frame suited to simpler workpieces and tighter budgets.
The main spindle delivers 22 kW (29.5 hp) at 6,000 RPM with 160 Nm of torque through an A2-6 spindle nose. The 6,000 RPM speed is a standout for this class, giving excellent surface footage on aluminum, brass, and small-diameter steel parts where competing machines at 4,000-5,000 RPM fall short. Bar capacity reaches 51 mm (2.0 in), covering most common bar stock for this size class. Standard chuck is 8-inch hydraulic, with the spindle bearing arrangement optimized for high-speed runs rather than heavy roughing torque.
The VDI 30 turret provides 12 tool stations with optional driven tooling for milling, drilling, and tapping operations. The machine fits squarely in the 2-axis turning category for standard configurations, with the driven tool option converting it into a functional mill-turn platform for simpler features. Rapid traverse of 30 m/min on both X and Z axes keeps non-cutting time competitive. DMG Mori's CELOS interface on a 15.6-inch touchscreen provides the same workflow management and connectivity found on larger CTX models.
At approximately $120,000–$160,000 configured, the CTX alpha 500 competes with the Mazak Quick Turn 250, Okuma LB2000 EX III, and Haas ST-20. It fits shops that want premium DMG Mori build quality and CELOS workflow on a compact platform, without the investment required for the full CTX beta or NLX lineup. Automation integration via bar feeder is standard; Robo2Go robot loader compatibility makes it viable for unattended production cells.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Max Turning Diameter | 320 mm (12.6 in) |
| Max Turning Length | 500 mm (19.7 in) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 6,000 RPM |
| Spindle Motor Power | 22 kW (29.5 hp) |
| Spindle Torque | 160 Nm |
| Spindle Nose | A2-6 |
| Chuck Size | 210 mm (8 in) hydraulic |
| Bar Capacity | 51 mm (2.0 in) |
| X Axis Travel | 195 mm (7.7 in) |
| Z Axis Travel | 500 mm (19.7 in) |
| Rapid Traverse Rate | 30 m/min (X and Z) |
| Turret | VDI 30, 12-station (driven tools optional) |
| CNC Control | CELOS with FANUC or Siemens, 15.6" touchscreen |
| Machine Weight | 4,500 kg (9,921 lb) |
| Floor Space | ~5.5 m² |
| 28 In | 700 mm |
| 80 In | 2,040 mm |
| 5 In | 127 mm |
| 17 In | 435 mm |
| 7 In | 170 mm |
| 81 In | 2,050 mm |
Specifications sourced from en.dmgmori.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- 6,000 RPM spindle is faster than most competitors in this size class, providing better surface footage on aluminum and small-diameter steel without needing a high-speed spindle upgrade
- Compact footprint around 5.5 m² fits tight shop floors while still delivering 320 mm turning diameter and 500 mm turning length for bread-and-butter production work
- CELOS touchscreen control is the same platform across the entire DMG Mori lineup, so operator skills transfer directly to larger CTX beta, NLX, and CTX gamma machines
- Robo2Go collaborative robot loader compatibility provides a clear automation path without safety fencing, suitable for shops starting a first lights-out cell
Limitations
- 51 mm bar capacity is smaller than competitors like the Okuma LB2000 EX III (56 mm) and restricts bar-fed work to smaller stock diameters
- VDI 30 turret is lighter-duty than VDI 40 used on larger CTX and NLX machines, limiting driven tool rigidity for harder milling in steel or stainless
- DMG Mori service and parts cost more than Haas, Doosan, or Hyundai-Wia, which matters on a machine at this price point where total cost of ownership is closely watched
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
A new CTX alpha 500 in base 2-axis configuration starts around $120,000. Adding driven tools, Y-axis option, through-spindle coolant, and bar feeder integration typically brings the total to $140,000–$160,000. Used machines from 2015–2021 trade in the $45,000–$80,000 range depending on hours and configuration.
02
Both are compact DMG Mori turning centers targeting similar part sizes, but the CTX alpha 500 runs at 6,000 RPM versus the CLX 350's 5,000 RPM, and the CTX series uses a more rigid casting optimized for higher-speed work. The CLX line is DMG Mori's value-oriented universal turning platform, while the CTX alpha sits slightly higher in build quality and machining performance. Pricing is similar.
03
Yes, with the optional driven tool turret and C-axis. The 12-station VDI 30 turret accepts driven tools for cross-drilling, tapping, and light milling operations. An optional Y-axis extends capability to off-center features. For heavy milling or complex 5-axis turn-mill work, the CTX beta TC or NTX series is a better choice.
04
The CTX alpha 500 runs CELOS on a 15.6-inch ERGOline touchscreen, with either FANUC or Siemens CNC underneath. Most North American machines ship with FANUC. CELOS handles job management, tool tracking, and connectivity while the underlying CNC executes motion control and G-code.
05
Both machines target similar part sizes and production environments. The DMG Mori CTX alpha 500 offers higher spindle speed (6,000 vs ~4,000 RPM standard) and CELOS integration for shop connectivity. The Mazak Quick Turn 250 offers MAZATROL conversational programming that is faster for short-run shops and generally costs less. DMG Mori service is stronger in Europe; Mazak has deep North American service coverage.
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