Hardinge Kellenberger VM1000
Key Specifications
X Travel
Z Travel
Max Workpiece ⌀
center width
center height
max workpiece weight
Overview
The Hardinge Kellenberger VM1000 is a multi-axis universal ID/OD grinding platform that combines internal and external grinding capabilities with hydrostatic B1/B2 rotary axes for maximum flexibility. With a 600 mm center width and the ability to grind workpieces up to 300 mm diameter, the VM1000 steps up significantly from the VM30's compact ID-only platform into a fully capable universal grinding machine.
The VM1000 features hydrostatic B1 and B2 axes with 330-degree and 225-degree swivel ranges respectively, providing vibration-free rotary positioning for the wheelhead and workhead assemblies. The external grinding spindle delivers 8 kW through a motor driving wheels of 300 x 40 mm at 50 m/s peripheral speed. High-frequency internal grinding spindles reach speeds up to 120,000 RPM with up to 15 kW power and 150 mm bore capacity. Workpiece spindle speeds range from 1 to 3,000 RPM depending on configuration.
Axis travels include 450 mm on both Z and X axes, with feed rates of 20,000 mm/min on both. The exceptional scale resolution of 0.0025 microns (2.5 nanometers) on both linear axes and 0.0001-degree encoder resolution on rotary axes represent the highest precision specifications in the Kellenberger lineup. Roundness accuracy reaches 0.4 microns standard and 0.2 microns with fly grinding techniques.
The VM1000 runs on a Fanuc 31i-B CNC control with a 19-inch touchscreen and Kellenberger's BLUE Solution software with OBJECT and ISO programming guides. The machine weighs 5,800 kg with a 2.5 x 2.1 m footprint. New VM1000 machines price between $450,000 and $700,000. The machine competes with the Studer S141, Voumard VM200, and Danobat IRD-400 in the high-end universal ID/OD grinding segment. Specs sourced from Kellenberger published data.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Center Width | 600 mm (23.6 in) |
| Center Height | 150 mm (5.9 in) |
| Max Workpiece Diameter | 150 / 300 mm |
| Max Workpiece Weight | 50 / 100 / 200 kg |
| Z-Axis Travel | 450 mm at 20,000 mm/min |
| X-Axis Travel | 450 mm at 20,000 mm/min |
| Axis Resolution | 0.0025 um (2.5 nm) |
| B1 Axis Swivel | 330 degrees at 30 RPM |
| B2 Axis Swivel | 225 degrees at 30 RPM |
| B Axis Resolution | 0.0001 degrees |
| Roundness Accuracy | 0.4 / 0.2 um (fly grinding) |
| External Grinding Wheel | 300 x 40 mm |
| External Peripheral Speed | 50 m/s |
| External Motor Power | 8 kW |
| Internal Spindle Speed | Up to 120,000 RPM |
| Internal Spindle Power | 15 kW max |
| Internal Bore Capacity | 150 mm |
| Workpiece Speed Range | 1 - 1,000 / 3,000 RPM |
| CNC Control | Fanuc 31i-B |
| Machine Weight | 5,800 kg (12,787 lb) |
| Floor Space Required | 2.5 x 2.1 m |
Specifications sourced from kellenberger.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- 2.5-nanometer axis resolution is the highest precision specification in the Kellenberger lineup, enabling the tightest tolerance grinding
- Hydrostatic B1/B2 axes provide vibration-free rotary positioning for consistent sub-micron roundness in production
- Combined ID/OD capability with 120,000 RPM internal spindle and 8 kW external motor eliminates the need for separate grinding machines
- 450 mm equal X and Z travels provide a generous grinding envelope for complex multi-feature workpieces
- 15 kW internal grinding power handles aggressive bore grinding in hardened materials at production rates
- BLUE Solution with OBJECT and ISO programming modes accommodates both novice and experienced grinding programmers
Limitations
- Price range of $450,000-$700,000 represents a major investment requiring consistently high-value precision grinding work
- Multi-axis complexity demands operators skilled in universal grinding strategies and multi-axis CNC programming
- Hydrostatic bearing systems require clean temperature-controlled hydraulic fluid and regular preventive maintenance
- 5,800 kg weight requires proper foundation engineering to maintain the machine's precision specifications
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
New Kellenberger VM1000 machines price between $450,000 and $700,000 depending on configuration. Base machines with single internal spindle and external grinding start near $450,000. Full configurations with multiple internal spindles, advanced dressing, in-process gauging, automation, and maximum B-axis options approach $700,000.
02
A resolution of 2.5 nanometers means the CNC can command axis movements in increments of 0.0000025 mm. For context, a human hair is approximately 70,000 nanometers thick. This ultra-fine resolution enables the machine to position with the precision needed to consistently achieve 0.2-micron roundness on ground surfaces — critical for high-speed bearing races and precision hydraulic components.
03
Both are multi-axis universal grinders, but they differ in architecture. The U300 features an automatic tool change spindle system and vertical Y-axis for face/groove grinding. The VM1000 uses dual hydrostatic B-axes with the highest resolution specs in the lineup (2.5 nm vs standard 10 nm). Choose the U300 for maximum operational versatility; choose the VM1000 for the absolute highest positioning precision.
04
The B1 axis (330-degree swivel) positions the grinding wheelhead, while the B2 axis (225-degree swivel) positions the workpiece headstock. Both use hydrostatic bearings — pressurized oil films that eliminate metal-to-metal contact, friction, and vibration. This provides smoother, more precise rotary positioning than conventional roller or ball bearings, which is essential for achieving the VM1000's sub-micron roundness specifications.
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