SCM Balestrini Idea
Image: scmgroup.com, SCM
Key Specifications
Max Spindle
x axis stroke
z axis stroke
axis speed xyz
worktables
machining head units
How much does the SCM Balestrini Idea cost?
Price estimate
We do not have a price for the SCM Balestrini Idea that we can stand behind, so we show no number. Configuration, options and installation move the final price a long way: a quote is the reliable figure.
Overview
The SCM Balestrini Idea is a compact 5-axis machining center for chair and furniture parts in solid wood. The gantry is fixed and the work moves: one or two independent mobile worktables travel on a single machine bed. SCM puts the floor area at just 13,5 square meters and says the machine ships without being taken apart.
Its distinguishing feature is the choice of head. The CS33 and CS44 are revolver units that keep several tools mounted at once, so the machine indexes to the next cutter instead of visiting a tool store. Short cycles on small parts are the result. B rotation on these two heads is 360° in continuous. The third option, the LI11, is a single-spindle unit that SCM recommends for complex operations and heavy stock removal; its B rotation is +/- 120°. C rotation is +/- 370° whichever head is fitted.
The X axis stroke is 1,700 mm (66.9 in) and the Z axis stroke 700 mm (27.6 in). Axis speeds are 90-90-60 m/min in X-Y-Z and the maximum rotation speed is 24000 rpm. A linear tool store with 6-8 positions is listed.
With two worktables the machine can run in pendulum cycle, loading one table while the other is machined. Either a bars worktable or an aluminium multifunction worktable can be fitted. For longer parts the Balestrini Power starts at an X axis stroke of 3,000 mm (118.1 in).
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| X Axis Stroke | 1,700 mm (66.9 in) |
| Z Axis Stroke | 700 mm (27.6 in) |
| Axis Speed Xyz | 90-90-60 m/min (X-Y-Z axes speed) |
| Worktables | Bars worktable - Multifunction worktable |
| Machining Head Units | LI11 - CS33 - CS44 |
| Max Spindle Speed | 24000 rpm |
| B Rotation | +/- 120° (LI11); 360° in continuous (CS33 and CS44) |
| C Rotation | +/- 370° |
| Linear Tool Store | 6-8 positions |
Specifications sourced from scmgroup.com — verified 2026-10-05
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- Occupies an area of just 13,5 square meters, according to SCM
- CS33 and CS44 revolver heads keep the required tools mounted, with B rotation of 360° in continuous
- One or two independent mobile worktables for pendulum cycle
- Axis speeds of 90-90-60 m/min in X-Y-Z
- Ships without disassembly thanks to its reduced dimensions
Limitations
- X axis stroke of 1,700 mm (66.9 in) limits part length
- Linear tool store is limited to 6-8 positions and no circular store is listed
- SCM's table gives no spindle power for the head units
- The LI11 single-spindle head is restricted to +/- 120° of B rotation
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
Three: LI11, CS33 and CS44. SCM describes the CS units as 5-axis revolver machining head units on which all the required tools are always available, and the LI11 as a single-spindle unit for complex operations and heavy stock removal.
02
B rotation is +/- 120° with the LI11 head and 360° in continuous with the CS33 and CS44 heads. C rotation is listed as +/- 370°.
03
SCM states an area of just 13,5 square meters and calls it the smallest machine in the category. The reduced dimensions also make it possible to avoid disassembly for shipment.
04
The X axis stroke is 1,700 mm (66.9 in) and the Z axis stroke is 700 mm (27.6 in). X-Y-Z axes speed is 90-90-60 m/min. The Y stroke should be confirmed with SCM before ordering.
