GF Mikron HPM 400U
Key Specifications
X Travel
Y Travel
Z Travel
Max Spindle
Spindle Taper
Tool Capacity
Overview
The GF Mikron HPM 400U is GF Machining Solutions' high-performance 5-axis machining center, designed for shops that need to push metal removal rates while maintaining the accuracy and finish quality the Mikron brand is known for. The HPM (High Performance Milling) designation sets this apart from the speed-focused S series and precision-focused P series — this machine is built to cut harder, faster, and heavier than its siblings.
With 500 x 450 x 400 mm (19.7 x 17.7 x 15.7 in) of X/Y/Z travel and a trunnion-style rotary tilting table, the HPM 400U handles workpieces up to 250 kg (551 lb) in full 5-axis simultaneous mode. The spindle options include a 20,000 RPM HSK-A63 unit delivering up to 35 kW and 120 Nm of torque — dramatically more material removal capability than the HSK-E40-equipped S and P series machines. This makes the HPM 400U genuinely capable of roughing titanium, Inconel, and hardened steels before switching to finishing passes on the same setup.
The polymer granite machine base provides the vibration damping that enables aggressive cutting without sacrificing surface quality. Rapid traverse hits 45 m/min (1,772 ipm), and the integrated thermal management system maintains accuracy through heavy cutting cycles that generate significant heat. The Heidenhain TNC 7 control handles complex 5-axis simultaneous programs with the processing speed and look-ahead capability these operations demand.
The tool magazine offers 30 or 60 pockets, and the machine supports System 3R and Erowa automation for pallet-based production. The trunnion table provides A-axis swivel from -30° to +120° and continuous C-axis rotation, covering the full range of 5-axis approach angles for aerospace, medical, and mold components.
New HPM 400U machines price between $350,000 and $500,000. The machine competes with the Hermle C 250, DMG Mori DMU 50, and Mazak Variaxis i-300 in the compact 5-axis performance segment.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 500 mm (19.7 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 450 mm (17.7 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 400 mm (15.7 in) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 20,000 RPM |
| Spindle Taper | HSK-A63 |
| Spindle Motor Power | 35 kW (47 hp) |
| Spindle Torque | 120 Nm (88.5 ft-lb) |
| Tool Capacity | 30 tools (60 optional) |
| Table Size | Ø 400 mm (15.7 in) trunnion |
| Max Work Weight | 250 kg (551 lb) |
| Rapid Traverse Rate | 45 m/min (1,772 ipm) |
| Swivel Range | A-axis: -30° to +120°, C-axis: 360° continuous |
| CNC Control | Heidenhain TNC 7 |
| Machine Weight | 9,000 kg (19,842 lb) |
| Machine Base | Polymer granite |
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- HSK-A63 spindle with 120 Nm torque and 35 kW power enables genuine roughing of titanium, Inconel, and hardened steels in 5-axis
- Polymer granite base combines aggressive cutting capability with the vibration damping needed for precision finishing
- Integrated thermal management maintains accuracy through heavy cutting cycles that generate significant heat loads
- True 5-axis simultaneous capability with a rigid trunnion table design for demanding aerospace and medical components
- Heidenhain TNC 7 control with advanced 5-axis kinematic calibration ensures consistent accuracy across all approach angles
- System 3R and Erowa automation compatibility enables pallet-based 5-axis production
Limitations
- Ø 400 mm trunnion table limits workpiece size — shops needing larger 5-axis envelopes should consider the MILL S 600 U or P 800 U
- 250 kg max workpiece weight is restrictive for heavier aerospace structural components
- Premium pricing starting at $350K reflects the high-performance positioning — economy 5-axis buyers have cheaper options
- 20,000 RPM max spindle speed is lower than the 42K available on the S series for ultra-fine finishing applications
- GF's service network is smaller than major competitors in the 5-axis space
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
New HPM 400U machines price between $350,000 and $500,000 depending on spindle configuration, tool magazine size, probing packages, and automation. System 3R or Erowa pallet automation adds $80,000-$200,000+. Used machines from 2016-2020 trade between $150,000 and $300,000.
02
The HPM 400U uses an HSK-A63 spindle with 120 Nm torque, built for aggressive material removal in tough materials. The MILL S 400 U uses an HSK-E40 spindle with up to 42,000 RPM, optimized for high-speed finishing. Choose the HPM for roughing-through-finishing on titanium and Inconel; choose the S 400 U for speed-class mold finishing on hardened steel and graphite.
03
Yes — this is one of the HPM's key design targets. The 120 Nm spindle torque, HSK-A63 rigidity, and polymer granite damping handle titanium roughing at production feed rates. The thermal management system compensates for the heat generated during extended titanium cutting cycles. The HPM 400U is a proven platform for titanium aerospace components.
04
Both are compact 5-axis machines with mineral cast/polymer granite bases and trunnion tables. The Hermle C 250 uses a modified gantry architecture with the spindle moving in X/Y/Z, keeping workpiece mass out of the linear axes. The HPM 400U offers higher spindle power and torque. Pricing is comparable. The Hermle typically has better standard accuracy specs; the HPM offers more aggressive cutting capability.
05
The HPM 400U supports System 3R GPS pallets, Erowa fixtures, and can be integrated into robotic loading cells. GF's Transformer system provides multi-machine automation with centralized job management. Options range from simple manual pallet changers to fully automated cells with part measurement and quality tracking.
Videos
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Cutting Tool Engineering
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Community Discussions
Troubleshooting and problem-solving — Endmill Recommendations : r/Machinists - Reddit
Community discussion — Anyone know how to clear This? : r/Machinists - Reddit
Owner experience and review — Opinions on this brand of mills? : r/Machinists - Reddit
Community discussion — Recommendations for CNC VMC : r/Machinists - Reddit
Links to community discussions. Summaries are editorial — visit the original thread for full context.
Comparisons
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