Hermle C 52 U MT

$900,000 - $1,400,000 (new) Updated 2026-03-16

Key Specifications

Spindle Taper

HSK-A63

Rapid Traverse

60 m/min X/Y, 55 m/min Z

Accuracy

+/- 0.005 mm (0.0002 in)

Repeatability

+/- 0.003 mm (0.00012 in)

x axis travel

1,000 mm (39.4 in)

y axis travel

1,100 mm (43.3 in)

Overview

The Hermle C 52 U MT adds integrated turning capability to Hermle's large-platform C 52 U 5-axis machining center. For shops machining parts that need both complex 5-axis milling and turning features — think flanged aerospace housings, turbine components, or large medical device assemblies — this machine eliminates the second operation on a lathe. The C-axis table spins up to 800 rpm via a direct-drive torque motor, handling turning operations without transferring the part.

X/Y/Z travels are 1,000 x 1,100 x 750 mm with a 1,000 mm diameter trunnion table rated for 2,000 kg. The A-axis swivels +/- 130 degrees, and the C-axis provides continuous 360-degree rotation with high-speed turning capability. The standard milling spindle runs at 18,000 rpm HSK-A63 with 29 kW continuous power. Rapid traverse is 60 m/min on X and Y, 55 m/min on Z. Tool magazine holds 60 tools, expandable to 325 positions.

The mineral-cast machine base weighs approximately 20,000 kg total, providing the mass needed to handle both milling and turning forces without chatter. Positioning accuracy is +/- 0.005 mm with repeatability of +/- 0.003 mm. Control options include Heidenhain TNC 640 or Siemens 840D sl with full mill-turn cycle support. New pricing runs $900,000-$1,400,000 depending on configuration. The C 52 U MT sits between the C 42 U MT and the flagship C 62 U MT in Hermle's mill-turn lineup.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
X Axis Travel	1,000 mm (39.4 in)
Y Axis Travel	1,100 mm (43.3 in)
Z Axis Travel	750 mm (29.5 in)
A Axis Swivel	+/- 130 degrees (260 degrees total)
C Axis	360 degrees continuous (up to 800 rpm for turning)
Table Diameter	1,000 mm (39.4 in)
Table Load Capacity	2,000 kg (4,409 lb)
Spindle Speed	18,000 rpm (standard); up to 42,000 rpm optional
Spindle Motor	29 kW (39 hp) standard
Spindle Taper	HSK-A63
Tool Magazine	60 positions (expandable to 325)
Turning Speed	Up to 800 rpm on C-axis
Rapid Traverse Rate	60 m/min X/Y, 55 m/min Z
Positioning Accuracy	+/- 0.005 mm (0.0002 in)
Repeatability	+/- 0.003 mm (0.00012 in)
Machine Base	Mineral cast
CNC Control	Heidenhain TNC 640 or Siemens 840D sl
Machine Weight	20,000 kg (44,092 lb)
Power Supply	400V, 3-phase, 50/60 Hz

Specifications sourced from hermleusa.net — verified 2026-03-28

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

Done-in-one 5-axis mill-turn eliminates part transfers between milling and turning machines
2,000 kg table capacity handles large aerospace and energy components
800 rpm C-axis turning via direct-drive torque motor for excellent surface finish
325-tool magazine option handles complex multi-operation programs without setup changes
Mineral-cast base at 20,000 kg provides exceptional rigidity for combined mill-turn forces
Full Hermle 5-axis accuracy maintained during both milling and turning operations

Limitations

Starting price near $900,000 is a major capital commitment
20,000 kg machine weight requires proper foundation engineering
800 rpm maximum turning speed limits pure turning productivity vs dedicated lathes
North American Hermle service coverage is more limited than domestic brands
Significant floor space and overhead clearance requirements

Best For

Aerospace manufacturers producing flanged housings and cases with both milling and turning features Turbine component production combining complex 5-axis contours with turned diameters Medical device companies consolidating multi-machine processes into single setups Energy sector components requiring combined milling and turning on large workpieces High-value contract shops reducing setup time and improving accuracy through process consolidation

Frequently Asked Questions

01 How does the C 52 U MT compare to the C 62 U MT?

The C 52 U MT has slightly smaller travels (1,000 x 1,100 x 750 mm vs 1,200 x 1,300 x 750 mm) and 500 kg less table capacity. It is more compact and about $300,000-$400,000 less expensive while sharing the same mill-turn technology.

02 What does a Hermle C 52 U MT cost?

New machines run $900,000-$1,400,000 depending on spindle selection, tool magazine size, and automation options. Used machines are scarce on the secondary market.

03 Can the turning capability handle interrupted cuts?

Yes. The direct-drive torque motor and robust trunnion design handle interrupted turning well. The Heidenhain and Siemens controls both support advanced turning cycles including facing, boring, and threading.

04 What automation options are available?

The HS-flex heavy pallet system integrates with the C 52 U MT for automated production. Robotic loading cells are also available for higher-volume applications.