Hardinge GX-1300
Key Specifications
X Travel
Y Travel
Z Travel
Spindle Taper
Tool Capacity
Table Size
Overview
The Hardinge GX-1300 is a large-envelope vertical machining center from the GX series, offering X/Y/Z travels of 1,300 x 600 x 600 mm (51.2 x 23.6 x 23.6 in). This extended envelope moves the GX series into territory typically occupied by 50-inch VMCs from Haas, Mazak, and Okuma, targeting production shops that need a combination of large workpiece capacity and Hardinge-grade precision for mold, die, and aerospace applications.
The spindle delivers 18.5 kW (25 hp) continuous power at speeds up to 10,000 RPM through a BT 40 taper, with an optional 12,000 RPM or 15,000 RPM configuration for high-speed applications. The increased spindle power reflects the larger work envelope and the heavier cuts this machine is expected to take. The machine structure uses a rigid box-type column design with linear roller guideways for load capacity, stiffness, and thermal stability across the larger footprint.
The work table measures 1,400 x 600 mm (55.1 x 23.6 in), providing generous clamping area for large mold bases, die shoes, and multi-part production fixtures. Maximum table load is 1,000 kg (2,205 lb). A 30-tool automatic tool changer accommodates complex programs with diverse tooling requirements. Rapid traverse rates of 36 m/min (1,417 ipm) on all axes maintain efficient positioning across the extended travels.
The GX-1300 runs on Fanuc 0i-MF Plus control and represents the upper range of Hardinge's VMC product line. New machines price between $130,000 and $200,000 depending on spindle configuration and options. The machine competes with the Haas VF-5, Mazak VCN-700, and Okuma GENOS M660-V in the large-envelope VMC segment.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 1,300 mm (51.2 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 600 mm (23.6 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 600 mm (23.6 in) |
| Table Size | 1,400 x 600 mm (55.1 x 23.6 in) |
| Max Table Load | 1,000 kg (2,205 lb) |
| Spindle Taper | BT 40 |
| Spindle Speed | 10,000 RPM (12,000/15,000 RPM optional) |
| Spindle Motor Power | 18.5 kW (25 hp) |
| Tool Capacity | 30 |
| Tool Change Time | 2.5 sec (tool-to-tool) |
| Rapid Traverse Rate | 36 m/min (1,417 ipm) |
| Positioning Accuracy | ±0.005 mm |
| Repeatability | ±0.003 mm |
| CNC Control | Fanuc 0i-MF Plus |
| Machine Weight | 9,000 kg (19,842 lb) |
Specifications sourced from hardinge.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- 1,300 mm X-travel handles large mold bases, die shoes, and structural components that exceed the capacity of 40-inch VMCs
- 18.5 kW spindle power provides adequate cutting force for aggressive roughing in steel, cast iron, and hard materials
- 1,000 kg table load supports heavy fixtures, mold bases, and multi-vise production setups without overloading concerns
- 30-tool ATC accommodates complex programs with diverse tooling without mid-cycle tool management
- Hardinge's precision spindle engineering maintains accuracy above commodity VMC benchmarks even at this larger machine size
- 600 mm Y and Z travels provide balanced depth access for deep cavity milling in mold and die applications
Limitations
- BT 40 tooling at this machine size is a limitation; many shops prefer CAT 50 or HSK for heavy-duty cutting in a 50-inch VMC
- 9,000 kg machine weight requires significant floor preparation, crane access, and adequate foundation for proper installation
- Hardinge's smaller dealer network compared to Haas and Mazak may affect service response and spare parts lead times
- Price premium over Haas VF-5 may be difficult to justify for shops that do not specifically require Hardinge's precision advantages
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
New GX-1300 machines price between $130,000 and $200,000 depending on spindle option, tooling package, and accessories. Base configurations start near $130,000. Adding high-speed spindle, through-spindle coolant, 4th axis prep, probing, chip conveyor, and high-pressure coolant pushes configured prices toward $200,000.
02
The Haas VF-5 offers 1,270 mm X-travel (slightly less than the GX-1300's 1,300 mm) and CAT 40 tooling. The Haas has a significantly lower entry price and the industry's largest dealer network. The GX-1300 offers Hardinge's precision spindle heritage. For most production shops, the Haas VF-5 is the practical choice. The GX-1300 targets shops where precision credentials and surface finish quality justify the premium.
03
The GX-1300 is primarily configured with BT 40 tooling. While BT 40 is adequate for most applications in this size class, shops doing heavy roughing in hard materials or requiring maximum rigidity may want to consider a CAT 50 machine from another manufacturer. The BT 40 configuration keeps the GX-1300 focused on precision finishing and medium-duty production work.
04
With 600 mm of Z-axis travel, the maximum workpiece height is determined by the spindle-to-table distance minus the Z-travel. Practical maximum workpiece heights depend on tooling length but typically allow parts up to 500 mm (19.7 in) tall. For deep-cavity mold work, the 600 mm Z-travel provides excellent reach.
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