Hermle MPA 42

$1,500,000 - $2,200,000 (new) Updated 2026-03-16

Key Specifications

Spindle Taper

HSK-A63

Accuracy

+/- 0.005 mm (0.0002 in)

Repeatability

+/- 0.003 mm (0.00012 in)

x axis travel

800 mm (31.5 in)

y axis travel

800 mm (31.5 in)

z axis travel

550 mm (21.7 in)

Overview

The Hermle MPA 42 is one of the most unique machines in the metalworking world — a true hybrid that combines Hermle's proven 5-axis milling platform with metal powder application (MPA) technology for additive manufacturing. Built on the C 42 U platform, this machine deposits metal powder via a thermal spray process directly onto the workpiece, then immediately mills the deposited material to final geometry. It is not a laser powder bed machine — it is a fundamentally different approach to additive that leverages Hermle's core milling competence.

The MPA process uses a high-velocity thermal spray nozzle integrated into the tool magazine, applying metal powder at supersonic speeds to build up material layer by layer. After each deposition pass, the 5-axis spindle machines the deposited layer to precise dimensions before the next layer goes down. This alternating additive-subtractive process produces fully dense parts with material properties comparable to wrought stock. Materials include copper, steel, titanium, and multi-material combinations — a key advantage over laser-based systems.

The base machine retains full C 42 U specifications: 800 x 800 x 550 mm travels, HSK-A63 spindle at 18,000 rpm, and Hermle's mineral-cast architecture. The MPA system adds the thermal spray head, powder feed system, and inert gas management. Control is Heidenhain TNC 640. This is not a production volume machine — it is a technology platform for conformal cooling channels in molds, multi-material components, and repair applications. Pricing starts around $1,500,000.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
X Axis Travel	800 mm (31.5 in)
Y Axis Travel	800 mm (31.5 in)
Z Axis Travel	550 mm (21.7 in)
A Axis Swivel	+/- 115 degrees (230 degrees total)
C Axis	360 degrees continuous
Table Diameter	800 mm (31.5 in)
Table Load Capacity	1,400 kg (3,086 lb)
Spindle Speed	18,000 rpm
Spindle Motor	29 kW (39 hp)
Spindle Taper	HSK-A63
Tool Magazine	42 positions (plus MPA spray head)
Additive Process	Metal Powder Application (MPA) — thermal spray deposition
Additive Materials	Copper, steel, stainless steel, titanium, multi-material combinations
Deposition Rate	Up to 200 cm³/hr depending on material
Positioning Accuracy	+/- 0.005 mm (0.0002 in)
Repeatability	+/- 0.003 mm (0.00012 in)
Machine Base	Mineral cast
CNC Control	Heidenhain TNC 640
Machine Weight	14,000 kg (30,864 lb)
Power Supply	400V, 3-phase, 50/60 Hz
Regular Price 99now 39 Bottle	Order Now
Regular Price 99	Now: $39/Bottle

Specifications sourced from hermle.de — verified 2026-03-28

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

True hybrid additive-subtractive manufacturing in a single machine — no part transfer needed
Thermal spray process produces fully dense parts comparable to wrought material
Multi-material capability enables copper-steel combinations impossible with laser powder bed
Built on the proven C 42 U platform with full 5-axis milling performance
Conformal cooling channels in injection molds dramatically reduce cycle times
Material deposition at up to 200 cm³/hr is faster than most laser powder bed systems

Limitations

Extremely high cost at $1.5M+ puts it out of reach for most shops
MPA technology requires specialized process knowledge and operator training
Not a high-volume production machine — best suited for tooling, prototypes, and specialty parts
Limited material library compared to mature laser powder bed systems
Very few machines installed worldwide — limited peer experience and application references

Best For

Injection mold manufacturers needing conformal cooling channels in steel tooling Aerospace R&D labs developing multi-material components Tooling repair and feature addition on existing components Research institutions studying hybrid additive-subtractive manufacturing Manufacturers requiring copper-steel composite components for thermal management

Frequently Asked Questions

01 How does MPA differ from laser powder bed fusion?

MPA uses a thermal spray process to deposit metal powder at supersonic speeds, building material mechanically rather than melting it with a laser. It alternates between deposition and 5-axis milling passes, producing fully dense parts with the ability to combine dissimilar metals.

02 What does the Hermle MPA 42 cost?

New machines start around $1,500,000 and can exceed $2,200,000 with full options. This is a specialty technology platform, not a standard production machine.

03 Can it build parts from scratch?

Yes, but it is most effective for adding features to existing substrates — conformal cooling channels, repair buildups, and multi-material sections. Building entire parts from scratch is possible but slower than dedicated additive systems.

04 What materials can it process?

Copper, various steels, stainless steel, and titanium. The key advantage is combining dissimilar materials — for example, copper cooling channels inside a steel mold body.