Kern Evo
Key Specifications
X Travel
Y Travel
Z Travel
Tool Capacity
Spindle Power
Max Workpiece ⌀
Overview
The Kern Evo is Kern Microtechnik's entry into the high-precision 5-axis segment, designed to deliver the brand's hallmark accuracy at a more accessible price point than the Micro HD or Pyramid Nano. With 300 x 280 x 250 mm of travel and positioning accuracy in the low single-digit micron range, the Evo targets small-part precision work in medical, dental, watchmaking, and electronics applications where conventional machining centers cannot hold tight enough tolerances.
Kern builds the Evo on the same polymer concrete base philosophy used across the entire lineup, providing the vibration damping that separates Kern machines from competitors using cast iron or welded steel structures. The HSK-E32 spindle runs up to 50,000 RPM and accepts small-diameter tools suitable for micromachining operations. While the Evo uses precision linear guides rather than the full hydrostatic system found on the Micro HD, the combination of the mineral cast base and precision preloaded guides still delivers accuracy levels that most shops associate with machines costing significantly more.
The trunnion-style 5-axis configuration provides full simultaneous 5-axis motion through a compact rotary tilting table with direct-drive motors. The table accepts workpieces up to approximately 200 mm diameter, making it well-suited for the small medical implants, watch components, and connector molds that represent Kern's core customer base. Tool storage accommodates up to 90 positions in the standard configuration.
The Evo runs on a Heidenhain TNC 640 control, giving operators the same programming environment used on the larger Kern machines. For shops stepping up from 3-axis or lower-precision 5-axis equipment, the Evo provides a genuine path into micro-precision territory without the seven-figure investment required for the Micro HD or Pyramid Nano. Surface finishes below Ra 0.1 um are achievable with proper tooling and cutting strategies.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 300 mm (11.8 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 280 mm (11.0 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 250 mm (9.8 in) |
| Spindle Speed | 500 - 50,000 RPM (HSK-E32) |
| Spindle Motor Power | 6.4 kW (8.6 hp) |
| Tool Capacity | Up to 90 tools |
| Tool Interface | HSK-E32 |
| Max Workpiece Diameter | 200 mm (7.9 in) |
| Max Workpiece Weight | 30 kg (66 lb) |
| Positioning Accuracy | < 3 um |
| Surface Finish | Ra < 0.1 um achievable |
| Guideway Type | Precision preloaded linear guides |
| Rotary Axes | A-axis / C-axis trunnion, direct-drive torque motors |
| Machine Base | Polymer concrete (mineral cast) |
| CNC Control | Heidenhain TNC 640 |
| Machine Weight | Approx. 4,000 kg (8,818 lb) |
| Maximum Storage Duration 180 Days | Type: HTTP Cookie |
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| Modelevobrandkerntypevertical Machining Centers Controlcontact Sales Rep | Contact Sales Rep. |
| Modelevobrandkerntypevertical Machining Centers Control | Contact Sales Rep. |
| Model | EVO |
| Brand | KERN |
| Type | Vertical Machining Centers (5-Axis or More) |
| X11811y11024z98425 Axis5power8 Hp | RPM50,000 RPM# ATC95TaperHSK25ControlCNC (Heidenhain iTNC530) |
| X | 11.811" |
| Y | 11.024" |
| Z | 9.8425" |
| Axis | 5 |
| Power | 8 hp |
| Rpm | 50,000 RPM |
| Atc | 95 |
| Taper | HSK25 |
| Cnc Control | CNC (Heidenhain iTNC530) |
| Looking To Purchase A New Kern Evo | Contact Sales Rep. |
Specifications sourced from machinetools.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- Delivers Kern-level precision at roughly half the price of the Micro HD, making sub-5-micron accuracy accessible to more shops
- 50,000 RPM HSK-E32 spindle handles micro-diameter tooling for fine detail work on hardened steels and exotic alloys
- Polymer concrete base provides superior vibration damping compared to cast iron machines in the same price range
- Compact footprint fits into smaller shop environments while still offering full 5-axis simultaneous capability
- Heidenhain TNC 640 control is familiar to operators and supports advanced 5-axis programming features
- 90-tool magazine is generous for a machine of this size and supports extended unattended operation
Limitations
- Linear guides rather than hydrostatic guideways mean the Evo cannot match the sub-micron positioning of the Micro HD or Pyramid Nano
- Small work envelope (300 x 280 x 250 mm, 30 kg max) limits the machine to genuinely small parts
- HSK-E32 tooling is less common and more expensive than HSK-A63 or BT-40 options on larger machines
- Still a premium-priced machine starting around $400,000, which is hard to justify without consistent high-precision work
- Limited service infrastructure outside Germany and central Europe compared to major Japanese and German builders
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
New Kern Evo machines typically price between $400,000 and $650,000 depending on spindle options, tool magazine size, and automation configuration. Used machines occasionally appear in the $200,000-$350,000 range.
02
The Evo uses precision linear guides instead of hydrostatic guideways, which reduces cost but limits positioning accuracy to the low single-digit micron range versus sub-micron on the Micro HD. The Evo also has a smaller work envelope and lower workpiece weight capacity. For many precision applications, the Evo's accuracy is more than sufficient.
03
The standard spindle is an HSK-E32 unit running up to 50,000 RPM with 6.4 kW of power. This covers the small-diameter tooling used in most micro-precision applications. The HSK-E32 interface is optimized for the small cutters and high speeds that the Evo's work envelope demands.
04
Yes. With up to 90 tools in the magazine and Heidenhain's job scheduling capabilities, the Evo supports extended unattended operation. Pallet automation options are also available for higher-volume applications.
05
Surface finishes below Ra 0.1 um are achievable on hardened steels with appropriate tooling and cutting strategies. While this does not match the Ra 0.02-0.05 um capability of the Micro HD and Pyramid Nano, it is excellent for most precision mold and medical device applications.
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