Okuma MB-4000H
Key Specifications
Max Spindle
Spindle Taper
Tool Capacity
Rapid Traverse
Spindle Power
pallet size
Overview
The Okuma MB-4000H is a 400 mm horizontal machining center built on Okuma's proven box-way platform, delivering the rigidity-focused performance that production shops require when machining steel, cast iron, and other ferrous materials. With 400 x 400 mm pallets supporting workpieces up to 600 mm diameter by 900 mm height, the MB-4000H targets automotive, aerospace, and general manufacturing applications where consistent accuracy and surface finish under production loads matter more than maximum axis speed.
The 15,000 RPM No. 40 spindle produces 26 kW (35 hp) at 10-minute rating and 18.5 kW (25 hp) continuous. This spindle configuration provides a strong balance of speed for aluminum and torque for steel, making the MB-4000H a versatile platform for shops running mixed materials. Standard tool storage holds 48 tools, adequate for most multi-face machining operations on 400 mm pallets. Machine dimensions are 2,420 x 4,700 x 2,647 mm — compact relative to its work envelope.
Box-way construction across all axes is the MB-4000H's defining characteristic. Compared to linear-guide alternatives like Okuma's own MA-4000H, box ways provide superior vibration damping during heavy cutting. This translates to measurably better surface finish in steel and cast iron, and longer tool life in production environments running high material removal rates. The trade-off is lower rapid traverse — box ways limit axis speed compared to linear guides.
The machine runs on Okuma's OSP-P500M control with Thermo-Friendly Concept, Anti-Crash System, Process Navi, and Servo Navi. A dual pallet changer is standard, enabling load/unload on one pallet while cutting on the other. The MB-4000H competes with the Mazak HCN-4000, DMG Mori NHX 4000, Makino a40, and Haas EC-400. New machines price $250,000–$375,000. Specs sourced from Okuma Corporation published data.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Pallet Size | 400 x 400 mm (15.7 x 15.7 in) |
| Max Workpiece Size | ø600 x 900 mm (ø23.6 x 35.4 in) |
| Max Spindle Speed | min⁻¹ (rpm) |
| Spindle Taper | No. 40 (BT40) |
| Spindle Motor Power | 26/18.5 kW (10 min/continuous) (35/25 hp) |
| Tool Capacity | 48 tools standard |
| Guideway Type | Box ways (all axes) |
| Pallet System | Dual pallet changer (standard) |
| CNC Control | Okuma OSP-P500M |
| Machine Dimensions | 2,420 x 4,700 x 2,647 mm (W x D x H) |
| Thermo Friendly Concept | Standard |
| Anti Crash System | Standard |
| Process Navi | Standard |
| Servo Navi | Standard |
| Max Machining Volume | 560 x 560 x 625 |
| Rotary Pallet Size | 400 x 400 |
| Spindle Power Hi Winding | 26/18.5 [30/22] |
| Rapid Traverse Rate | 60,000 |
| Okuma Global Repair Center | Charlotte, North Carolina |
| Inches | Metric |
| Spindle Speed | 50 ~ 15,000 [50 ~ 20,000] |
| Magazine Capacity | 48 [64, 110, 146, 182, 218] Multi-Magazine |
Specifications sourced from okuma.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- Box-way construction on all axes provides superior vibration damping for better surface finish and longer tool life compared to linear-guide alternatives
- 15,000 RPM No. 40 spindle balances speed for aluminum and torque for steel, making the MB-4000H versatile across material types
- Compact 2,420 x 4,700 mm footprint fits in tight shop layouts while maintaining full 400 mm pallet capability
- Dual pallet changer standard — no waiting to load the next part while cutting is in progress
- Thermo-Friendly Concept maintains dimensional accuracy across shifts, reducing scrap and rework in production environments
- 48-tool standard magazine provides adequate capacity for most production operations without expanded magazine cost
Limitations
- Box-way construction limits rapid traverse and acceleration compared to linear-guide alternatives like the MA-4000H, adding non-cutting time
- ø600 x 900 mm workpiece envelope is smaller than some 400 mm-class competitors, limiting tombstone and tall-fixture flexibility
- No. 40 taper limits maximum chip load in the heaviest roughing applications compared to No. 50 machines
- Okuma's OSP control has a smaller third-party ecosystem for post processors compared to Fanuc-based machines
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
New MB-4000H machines typically price between $250,000 and $375,000 depending on options. Expanded tool magazines, through-spindle coolant, probing systems, and automation add to the base price. Used MB-4000H machines from 2012–2020 trade between $80,000 and $180,000 depending on hours and condition.
02
The MB-4000H uses box ways for rigidity and vibration damping, while the MA-4000H uses linear guides for speed and acceleration (60 m/min rapids, 1.0G). Choose the MB-4000H for steel and cast iron work where surface finish under load matters most. Choose the MA-4000H for high-volume production where cycle time drives profitability and parts are primarily aluminum or require light cuts.
03
For most single-part programs running on 400 mm pallets, 48 tools is adequate. The limitation appears in high-mix production where different parts on each pallet require different tool sets. For high-mix shops, expanded magazine options are available. Most production operations running focused part families find 48 tools sufficient.
04
Box ways require proper lubrication through the machine's automatic lube system and periodic way cover inspection. The maintenance trade-off versus linear guides is more frequent lube system checks, but box ways are more tolerant of chip contamination and last longer in harsh cutting environments with heavy coolant use and abrasive chips.
05
Yes. The dual pallet changer is the baseline automation. Multi-pallet systems, pallet pool automation, and robot tending are all compatible with the MB-4000H platform. Okuma's Armroid and Standroid automation options can be configured for unattended operation on production runs.
Videos
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OKUMA CORPORATION JAPAN
Automatics & Machinery
Community Discussions
Community discussion — Need Help! Okuma MB4000H - CNCzone
Troubleshooting and problem-solving — Okuma MB4000H B Axis catastrophic brake failure! - CNCzone
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Pricing and buying discussion — What are your experience with okuma machines? :
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Community discussion — Surface finish improvement?? : r/Machinists - Reddit
Community discussion — Okuma...Love or Hate? : r/Machinists - Reddit
Links to community discussions. Summaries are editorial — visit the original thread for full context.




