YCM NHX800B
Key Specifications
X Travel
Y Travel
Z Travel
Max Spindle
Spindle Taper
Tool Capacity
Overview
The YCM NHX800B is a high-performance horizontal machining center with an 800 mm (31.5 in) pallet size, designed for heavy-duty machining of large castings, housings, and structural components in automotive, energy, and general manufacturing applications. Built by Yeong Chin Machinery (YCM) in Taiwan, the NHX800B combines an 800 x 800 mm pallet with X/Y/Z travels of 1,100 x 900 x 1,000 mm (43.3 x 35.4 x 39.4 in), providing a generous work envelope for large-part horizontal machining.
The machine features a 2-speed geared spindle delivering 30 kW (40 hp) with speeds up to 6,000 RPM through a BT 50 (or CAT 50) interface, providing the torque and rigidity needed for heavy face milling, boring, and drilling in cast iron, steel, and aluminum. The spindle design emphasizes low-speed torque for aggressive roughing, with peak torque rated at 900 Nm (664 ft-lb). A 60-tool ATC with roller-cam design provides fast and reliable tool changes, while the 2-pallet APC (automatic pallet changer) enables continuous production with loading/unloading during cutting.
YCM has built a strong reputation in the horizontal machining center segment with competitive pricing and build quality that approaches Japanese standards. The NHX800B features box-way construction on all three linear axes for maximum rigidity and vibration damping during heavy cutting, a design choice that favors cut quality over rapid traverse speed. The machine bed is a heavily ribbed Meehanite cast iron structure that provides the thermal stability and dampening characteristics required for consistent accuracy in production environments. FANUC 31i-MB5 CNC control is standard.
The NHX800B competes with the Mazak HCN-8800, Okuma MA-600HII, DMG Mori NHX 8000, and Makino a81nx at a significantly lower price point. New NHX800B machines are priced between $350,000 and $500,000, representing substantial savings compared to Japanese and European competitors in the 800mm pallet class. Used YCM horizontals from 2016-2022 can be found between $175,000 and $300,000.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 1,100 mm (43.3 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 900 mm (35.4 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 1,000 mm (39.4 in) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 6,000 RPM |
| Spindle Taper | BT 50 / CAT 50 |
| Spindle Motor Power | 30 kW (40 hp) |
| Spindle Torque | 900 Nm (664 ft-lb) |
| Pallet Size | 800 x 800 mm (31.5 x 31.5 in) |
| Max Workpiece Weight | 1,500 kg (3,307 lb) per pallet |
| Tool Capacity | 60 tools (expandable) |
| CNC Control | FANUC 31i-MB5 |
| Machine Weight | 22,000 kg (48,502 lb) |
| Positioning Accuracy | 0.005 mm (0.0002 in) |
| B Axis | 0.001° indexing (full 360°) |
Specifications sourced from ycmcnc.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- 800 x 800 mm pallet with 1,500 kg load capacity handles large castings and housings that exceed the capacity of 500-630 mm pallet machines, at a price point typically 30-40% below Japanese competitors
- Box-way construction on all axes provides superior vibration damping and rigidity for heavy interrupted cuts in cast iron and steel, maintaining cut quality during aggressive roughing operations
- 900 Nm spindle torque through the geared head design delivers massive low-speed cutting force for large face milling, heavy boring, and deep-hole drilling in ferrous materials
- 2-pallet APC enables continuous production with operator loading during machining, keeping spindle utilization high without the cost of a full multi-pallet FMS system
- FANUC 31i-MB5 control provides industry-standard programming, extensive macro capability, and broad compatibility with existing FANUC-based post-processors and operator training
- YCM's competitive pricing delivers 800mm-class horizontal machining capability at a cost that enables smaller shops to compete with larger operations running premium Japanese horizontal machines
Limitations
- 6,000 RPM maximum spindle speed limits high-speed aluminum finishing compared to competitors offering 10,000-15,000 RPM options, though the torque-biased design excels in ferrous materials
- Box-way design results in slower rapid traverse speeds (typically 32-36 m/min) compared to linear-guide competitors, adding non-cutting time on large tool-path programs with many repositioning moves
- YCM's brand recognition and resale value lag behind established Japanese horizontal machining center builders, which can affect financing terms and used equipment value retention
- Service network in North America is smaller than Mazak, Okuma, or DMG Mori, though YCM has been steadily expanding dealer coverage and parts inventory
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
New YCM NHX800B machines are priced between $350,000 and $500,000 depending on configuration. Base machines include the 2-pallet APC, 60-tool ATC, and FANUC control. Adding through-spindle coolant, probing, expanded tool magazines, chip conveyor upgrades, and fourth-axis tombstone fixtures pushes toward the higher end. This represents 30-40% savings compared to comparable Japanese 800mm horizontals. Used YCM horizontals from 2016-2022 trade between $175,000 and $300,000.
02
The Mazak HCN-8800 offers higher spindle speeds (10,000 RPM standard), linear roller guideways for faster rapids, and Mazak's extensive service network and SmoothG control. The YCM NHX800B counters with box-way rigidity, higher low-speed torque, and a price point that is $150,000-$250,000 lower. For heavy cast iron and steel cutting where rigidity matters most, the YCM is competitive on cut quality. For mixed material production including aluminum and higher-speed finishing, the Mazak has the advantage.
03
Box ways provide superior vibration damping, higher static and dynamic rigidity, and longer service life in heavy cutting applications. The trade-off is slower rapid traverse speeds and higher friction compared to linear roller guides. For 800mm horizontal machining centers primarily used for heavy cutting of cast iron, steel, and other ferrous materials, box ways are preferred by many production shops. For high-speed aluminum work and applications where rapid traverse time significantly affects cycle times, linear guides may be preferable.
04
The standard 2-pallet APC can be supplemented with additional pallet storage through third-party automation providers like Fastems, Liebherr, or Mazak Palletech-compatible systems. YCM provides the mechanical and control interfaces needed for FMS integration. The FANUC 31i control supports pallet scheduling and DNC communication protocols standard to FMS environments. Multi-pallet configurations are particularly effective for production environments running multiple part numbers.
05
The NHX800B offers through-spindle coolant up to 70 bar (1,015 psi), flood coolant with multiple nozzles, and chip wash-down systems. The horizontal spindle orientation naturally aids chip evacuation from the work zone. Options include a hinged belt conveyor, drum-type chip separator, and coolant filtration system. For cast iron machining (dry cutting), a vacuum-based chip removal system can be specified. High-pressure coolant is recommended for deep-hole drilling and difficult materials.
06
YCM provides a standard 2-year machine warranty with options for extended coverage. North American service is provided through YCM's US subsidiary and authorized dealer network, with service technicians located in major manufacturing regions. Parts availability is supported through YCM's US warehouse. While the service network is smaller than Japanese majors, YCM has been steadily expanding coverage and response times have improved significantly in recent years.
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