Makino SLIM5n APC
Key Specifications
X Travel
Y Travel
Z Travel
Max Spindle
Spindle Taper
Tool Capacity
Overview
The Makino SLIM5n APC combines the SLIM5n's expanded work envelope with an integral automatic pallet changer, creating the most capable machine in the Slim series for shops that need both workspace and spindle utilization. The two-pallet system allows operators to load and unload parts on the outboard pallet while machining continues on the inboard pallet, eliminating setup-induced spindle downtime.
Axis travel matches the fixed-table SLIM5n at 710 x 400 x 410 mm (28.0 x 15.7 x 16.1 in) on X/Y/Z. Each pallet provides a 900 x 593 mm (35.4 x 23.3 in) work surface—notably larger than the table on the fixed-table variant—with 300 kg (661 lb) load capacity per pallet. The pallet design supports workpieces up to 1,320 mm diameter and 475 mm tall, accommodating round and irregularly-shaped parts that would be difficult to fixture on a standard rectangular table.
The spindle and motion system are identical to the SLIM5n: two spindle options at 16,000 or 8,000 RPM with HSK-A50 tooling, and rapid traverse of 60,000 mm/min on X/Z and 50,000 mm/min on Y. The APC variant uses a 24-tool ATC (versus 26 on the fixed-table model) to accommodate the pallet mechanism within the compact envelope. Standard features include auto doors, lift-up chip conveyor, nozzle and flush coolant, and sloped work zone surfaces. The SLIM5n APC is positioned for production environments where maximizing output per machine per shift is the primary objective, competing against pallet-equipped versions of the Brother Speedio, Fanuc ROBODRILL, and Kitamura Mycenter series.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 710 mm (28.0 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 400 mm (15.7 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 410 mm (16.1 in) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 16,000 RPM (8,000 RPM optional) |
| Spindle Taper | HSK-A50 |
| Pallet Size | 900 x 593 mm (35.4 x 23.3 in) |
| Number Of Pallets | 2 |
| Max Workpiece Size | 1,320 mm dia x 475 mm (51.96 x 18.7 in) |
| Table Load Capacity | 300 kg (661 lb) per pallet |
| Rapid Traverse Xz | 60,000 mm/min (2,362 ipm) |
| Rapid Traverse Y | 50,000 mm/min (1,968 ipm) |
| Cutting Feedrate | 787 ipm |
| Tool Capacity | 24 |
| Pallet Change Type | Integral automatic pallet changer |
| CNC Control | Makino Professional 6 |
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| Metric | English |
| Pallet | 35.4" x 23.3" |
| Spindle Rpm | 16,000 (optional 8,000) |
| Rapid Traverse Rate | X: 2,362 ipm / Y: 1,968 ipm / Z: 2,362 ipm |
| Maximum Workpiece | ø 51.96" x 18.7" (with limitations) |
| Maximum Payload | 661 lbs. |
Specifications sourced from makino.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- Integral two-pallet APC eliminates setup-induced spindle downtime, maximizing output per machine per shift in production environments
- 900 x 593 mm pallet surface is significantly larger than the fixed-table SLIM5n's 800 x 400 mm table, accommodating wider fixture plates
- Round workpiece capacity up to 1,320 mm diameter enables machining of circular parts that would exceed rectangular table dimensions
- 60,000 mm/min rapid traverse on X/Z axes delivers class-leading speed for minimum non-cutting time between features
- Compact footprint with APC maintains compatibility with high-density multi-machine cell layouts
- Standard auto doors, lift-up chip conveyor, and optional robot interface provide production-ready automation infrastructure
Limitations
- 300 kg per-pallet load capacity is lower than the fixed-table SLIM5n's 600 kg, limiting fixture weight and heavy workpiece applications
- 24-tool ATC is two tools fewer than the fixed-table variant, slightly reducing tool variety for complex parts
- Premium of $25,000-$35,000 over the fixed-table SLIM5n must be justified by setup time savings in the specific production scenario
- HSK-A50 tooling has a smaller installed base than CAT40, potentially increasing tooling procurement costs for shops transitioning
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
A new Makino SLIM5n APC typically costs between $165,000 and $235,000. The base machine with 16K RPM spindle, 24-tool ATC, and two-pallet APC starts around $165,000. The APC variant adds approximately $25,000-$35,000 to the fixed-table SLIM5n price. Adding the 8K high-torque spindle, robot interface, and enhanced coolant pushes pricing toward $200,000-$235,000.
02
The SLIM5n APC uses a 24-tool magazine versus 26 on the fixed-table model because the pallet change mechanism occupies space within the machine envelope that would otherwise be available for the ATC. The two-tool reduction is rarely an issue in dedicated production applications where part programs typically use 8-15 tools.
03
The SLIM5n APC's 300 kg per-pallet limit versus the fixed-table's 600 kg reflects the dynamic loads involved in pallet swapping. The pallet mechanism must accelerate, decelerate, and precisely position the pallet and its payload, requiring a lower mass limit than a fixed table that never moves. For most production parts targeted by this machine, 300 kg provides ample capacity for fixtures and workpieces.
04
Yes. A robot can load raw stock onto the outboard pallet while the machine cuts, creating a fully automated cell. The standard auto doors facilitate robotic access, and an optional robot interface simplifies integration. This combination of APC plus robot loading provides two levels of automation—pallet-level changeover and part-level loading—for maximum unattended production time.
05
Choose the SLIM5n APC if your parts require more than 500 mm of X-travel (SLIM5n provides 710 mm) or if you need the larger 900 x 593 mm pallet surface. The SLIM5n APC also offers faster X/Z rapids at 60,000 mm/min versus 50,000. Choose the SLIM3n APC if your parts fit within 500 mm X-travel and minimizing footprint is the priority. The SLIM5n APC costs approximately $25,000-$35,000 more than the SLIM3n APC.
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