Makino UX3
Key Specifications
X Travel
Y Travel
Z Travel
Table Size
Accuracy
u axis
Overview
The Makino UX3 is a production-grade wire EDM in the core of Makino's lineup, positioned above the j-series entry machines and below the precision UPV platform. It is the workhorse choice for die/mold shops, precision contract manufacturers, and stamping tool builders who need fast roughing speeds, quality surface finishes, and reliable unattended operation in a mid-size envelope.
Axis travel measures 370 x 270 x 220 mm (14.6 x 10.6 x 8.7 in) on X/Y/Z — a proven envelope size that handles the majority of die inserts, punch details, and mold cavity components. U and V axes provide +/-50 mm (+/-2.0 in) for taper cutting. The worktable spans 540 x 380 mm (21.3 x 15.0 in) and supports workpieces up to 540 x 380 x 220 mm (21.3 x 15.0 x 8.7 in) at a maximum weight of 300 kg (661 lb).
The UX3 features Makino's high-performance digital AC generator optimized for fast rough cutting and quality skim finishing. It achieves surface finishes down to 0.1 um Ra (4 uin Ra) with multi-pass skim cuts. Wire diameter range covers 0.10 to 0.30 mm (0.004 to 0.012 in), and positioning accuracy is rated at +/-0.002 mm (+/-0.00008 in). Taper cutting handles angles up to +/-30 degrees at reduced workpiece height.
Makino's Hyper-i touchscreen control provides an intuitive programming interface with comprehensive technology databases for common material and wire combinations. The control shortens setup time and supports less experienced operators with guided parameter selection. Submerged cutting in a temperature-controlled dielectric tank maintains thermal stability for consistent results across long programs.
Automatic wire threading with broken wire detection and recovery keeps the machine running through unattended shifts. The UX3 is designed for shops that run wire EDMs hard and expect them to hold tolerance day after day without constant babysitting.
The UX3 competes with the Sodick ALN400G, Mitsubishi MV1200R, Fanuc ROBOCUT C400iC, and GF Machining Solutions CUT 200 in the mid-range production wire EDM segment. New pricing typically ranges from $140,000 to $195,000.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 370 mm (14.6 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 270 mm (10.6 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 220 mm (8.7 in) |
| U Axis | ±2.0" |
| V Axis | ±2.0" |
| Table Size | 540 x 380 mm (21.3 x 15.0 in) |
| Max Workpiece Size | 540 x 380 x 220 mm (21.3 x 15.0 x 8.7 in) |
| Max Workpiece Weight | 300 kg (661 lb) |
| Wire Diameter Range | 0.10 - 0.30 mm (0.004 - 0.012 in) |
| Taper Angle | +/-30 degrees (at reduced height) |
| Surface Finish | 0.1 um Ra (4 uin Ra) |
| Positioning Accuracy | +/-0.002 mm (+/-0.00008 in) |
| CNC Control | Makino Hyper-i (touchscreen) |
| Generator | Makino high-performance digital AC generator |
| Tank Size | 31.10" x 24.05" |
| Machine Weight | 3,100 kg (6,834 lb) |
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| Metric | English |
| Maximum Workpiece Size | 30.3" x 23.2" x 8.7" Tall |
| Maximum Workpiece Weight | 1,323 lbs |
| Available Wire Size | Standard 0.003" - 0.012" ø |
Specifications sourced from makino.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- High-performance generator delivers fast roughing speeds while maintaining quality skim-cut finishes down to 0.1 um Ra
- Proven mid-size envelope (370 x 270 mm) covers the majority of die/mold work without paying for unused capacity
- Hyper-i control with comprehensive technology databases reduces setup time and supports operators of all experience levels
- Reliable automatic wire threading with broken wire recovery keeps lights-out operation running consistently
- +/-30 degree taper capability handles complex die geometries including clearance angles and draft profiles
- Temperature-controlled submerged cutting maintains accuracy during extended unattended production runs
- Strong Makino dealer network provides parts, service, and applications support across North America
Limitations
- 370 x 270 mm travel envelope limits workpiece size — shops with larger die plates need the UX6 or U86
- 300 kg workpiece capacity is adequate for most inserts but limiting for heavy mold base plates
- Does not include the adaptive discharge technology found on the newer UX3i model
- Premium pricing over j-series models may not be justified for shops that do not need the faster generator
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
New UX3 machines typically price between $140,000 and $195,000 depending on configuration. This positions it in the core of the mid-range segment alongside the Sodick ALN400G and Mitsubishi MV1200R. Used UX3 machines from 2016-2021 typically trade between $70,000 and $120,000 depending on hours and condition.
02
The UX3i adds adaptive discharge generator technology, enhanced Hyper-i control with predictive maintenance, improved auto-threading logic, and expanded technology databases. The UX3 uses a standard (non-adaptive) digital AC generator. For shops that run mostly consistent cross-section work, the UX3 delivers excellent results at a lower cost. Shops with tall or variable cross-section work benefit more from the UX3i's adaptive technology.
03
Roughing speed depends on material, thickness, and wire diameter, but the UX3's high-performance generator typically delivers 250-350 mm2/min in steel with 0.25 mm brass wire. This is competitive with other premium mid-range wire EDMs. Multi-pass skim cuts to achieve 0.1 um Ra add time, but the total cycle for rough-plus-skim is well-optimized.
04
Both are premium mid-range wire EDMs with similar travel envelopes. The Sodick ALN400G features linear motor drives for smooth axis motion and the SPW generator. The UX3 uses ball screw drives with glass scale feedback and Makino's digital AC generator. Both achieve comparable accuracy and finish quality. The choice typically comes down to dealer support, brand preference, and which control interface the shop prefers.
05
The UX3 requires a 3-phase power supply (typically 200-230V, 30-40 kVA depending on configuration). At 3,100 kg, it should be installed on a stable concrete floor rated for at least 1,500 kg/m2. While it does not require a reinforced foundation like some large machines, a solid, level floor free from excessive vibration is necessary for rated accuracy.
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Community Discussions
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