Starrag Heckert X50
Key Specifications
X Travel
Y Travel
Z Travel
Max Spindle
Spindle Taper
Tool Capacity
Overview
The Starrag Heckert X50 is a 5-axis horizontal machining center built around a 500 mm pallet, representing the entry point into Heckert's X-series of universal horizontal machining platforms. Unlike the 4-axis H-series, the X-series integrates the fifth axis directly into the table, enabling full 5-axis simultaneous machining of complex contoured components in aerospace, medical, and precision engineering applications.
Axis travels of 700 x 650 x 700 mm (27.6 x 25.6 x 27.6 in) accommodate small-to-medium prismatic and contoured parts. The spindle delivers 15,000 RPM with 32 kW (43 hp) continuous power through an HSK-A63 taper, suitable for machining aluminum, titanium, and hardened steels. An optional high-speed spindle at 20,000 RPM is available for aluminum-intensive aerospace applications. The integrated A/B-axis trunnion provides +/-115 degrees of swivel with continuous C-axis rotation for full 5-axis simultaneous capability.
Two 500 x 500 mm pallets come standard, each supporting workpieces up to 600 kg (1,323 lb). Pallet change times remain under 10 seconds. Tool magazine capacity starts at 60 tools, expandable to 180. Rapid traverse reaches 60 m/min on all linear axes. The machine uses roller guideways for rigidity during 5-axis contouring under load.
The X50 runs on Siemens SINUMERIK 840D sl with advanced 5-axis kinematic transformation and CYCLE800 swivel data sets. Positioning accuracy of +/-0.004 mm and repeatability of +/-0.002 mm place the X50 in the precision class needed for aerospace structural components. Built in Chemnitz, Germany, the X50 competes with 5-axis HMCs from Grob, Hermle, and DMG Mori. New machines typically price between $500,000 and $750,000.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 700 mm (27.6 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 650 mm (25.6 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 700 mm (27.6 in) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 15,000 RPM |
| Spindle Taper | HSK-A63 |
| Spindle Motor Power | 32 kW (43 hp) |
| Spindle Torque | 200 Nm (148 ft-lb) |
| Pallet Size | 500 x 500 mm (19.7 x 19.7 in) |
| Number Of Pallets | 2 (expandable via pallet pool) |
| Pallet Load Capacity | 600 kg (1,323 lb) |
| A B Axis Swivel | +/-115 deg |
| C Axis | 360 deg continuous |
| Number Of Axes | 5 (simultaneous) |
| Tool Capacity | 60 (expandable to 180) |
| Rapid Traverse Rate | 60 m/min (2,362 ipm) |
| Positioning Accuracy | +/-0.004 mm |
| Repeatability | +/-0.002 mm |
| CNC Control | Siemens SINUMERIK 840D sl |
| Machine Weight | 14,000 kg (30,865 lb) |
Specifications sourced from starrag.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- Full 5-axis simultaneous capability with integrated table-mounted trunnion provides complex contouring access that the 4-axis H-series cannot achieve
- 15,000 RPM HSK-A63 spindle handles aluminum through titanium, with 20,000 RPM high-speed option for aerospace aluminum-intensive applications
- 500 mm pallet format with 2-pallet standard and pallet pool expandability enables production-oriented 5-axis machining with minimal setup time
- Roller guideways provide the rigidity needed for accurate 5-axis contouring under cutting loads, outperforming linear guide competitors in heavy cuts
- +/-0.004 mm positioning accuracy meets aerospace structural component tolerances without compromise
- Siemens 840D sl with advanced 5-axis kinematics and CYCLE800 provides proven 5-axis programming and transformation capabilities
Limitations
- Starting at $500K, the X50 commands a premium over equivalent vertical trunnion 5-axis machines from Hermle or DMG Mori with larger dealer networks
- 600 kg pallet load capacity limits the X50 to small-to-medium parts, requiring larger X-series models for heavier workpieces
- Siemens-only control may not suit shops standardized on Heidenhain or Fanuc, adding training and programming migration costs
- Limited North American service presence compared to Grob, Hermle, or DMG Mori 5-axis platforms with broader dealer networks
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
The X50 adds a fifth axis integrated into the table, enabling simultaneous 5-axis contouring that the H-series cannot perform. The H-series excels at high-volume 4-axis production of prismatic parts, while the X50 targets complex contoured components requiring undercut access and multi-angle machining. The X50 trades some of the H-series pallet load capacity for 5-axis flexibility.
02
Yes, the X50 can lock the A-axis and operate as a conventional 4-axis HMC with B-axis indexing. This versatility allows shops to run both 5-axis contoured parts and simpler 4-axis prismatic work on the same machine, maximizing utilization across diverse part mixes.
03
The integrated trunnion provides +/-115 degrees of A/B-axis swivel with continuous 360-degree C-axis rotation. This generous swivel range provides excellent access to undercuts and complex geometries without workpiece re-fixturing. The table-integrated design maximizes rigidity compared to head-swivel 5-axis architectures.
04
Both are 500 mm class 5-axis HMCs targeting aerospace and precision applications. The Grob G350 uses a unique horizontal spindle with table-table 5-axis kinematics, while the X50 integrates the 5th axis into a trunnion table. Grob has a stronger North American presence and offers Siemens or Heidenhain controls. The X50 emphasizes Heckert's pallet pool ecosystem and roller guideway rigidity. Choice often depends on existing infrastructure and regional service support.
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