Redefining precision, power and productivity: Makino a500iR
Kirchheim unter Teck, Germany, 23 September 2025 |
On show at EMO 2025 in Hannover (22-26 September) will be the Makino a500iR with a brand-new 60kW, 24,000 rpm spindle. This spindle ensures the shortest cycle times in machining aluminium aerostructures and the most demanding semiconductor applications.
Designed for precision, speed and reliability
This recent addition to Makino’s horizontal machining centre line-up has been engineered to meet the evolving demands of high-performance, 5-axis simultaneous machining. Designed for precision, speed and proven reliability, this state-of-the-art machine combines robust engineering with intelligent functions to deliver exceptional results across a wide range of materials and applications.
The a500iR was developed for ultra-efficient machining of complex, small- to mid-sized parts, especially for applications in the aerospace industry. It takes 500 × 500 mm pallets and features axis travels of 900 mm (X), 750 mm (Y) and 800 mm (Z). The machine’s exceptional workability is due, not least, to its undercut capability with 290° rotation (-110° to +180°) in the B-axis and 360° continuous rotation in the C-axis.
Outstanding features
Superior cutting performance: The spindle options cater to a broad spectrum of machining needs, delivering superior cutting performance across a wide range of applications:
Standard spindle: 14,000 rpm, HSK-A63 interface, 63/30 kW motor power (S3 15%ED/S1), 303/120 Nm torque (S3 15%ED/S1).
Optional spindles: 24,000 rpm with an HSK-A63 interface and 60 kW motor power.
Machining capabilities: The a500iR enables stable, high-speed 5-axis machining:
B-axis: -110° to +180° rotation; C-axis: continuous 360° rotation
Rapid traverse speeds of up to 60,000 mm/min (linear), 16,000 degrees per minute (B-axis) and 36,000 degrees per minute (C-axis)
Maximum workpiece size: Ø900 mm, height 600 mm and up to 400 kg
Chip and coolant management: The a500iR features an efficient chip and coolant management system with a centre trough for chip evacuation, multiple coolant systems (through-spindle, nozzle, overhead shower, terrace and C-axis washing) and a GI breaker function to prevent chip wrapping and tool wear during hole machining.
Tool handling: The a500iR is equipped with advanced tool-handling features such as:
Standard ring-type automatic tool changer (ATC) for 90 tools and an optional matrix-type ATC for up to 313 tools
Camera-detection broken tool sensor (BTS)
Coolant draw-back system to prevent excess coolant during tool changes
Ergonomic workability: Designed for ease of use and efficiently ergonomic workability, the a500iR comes with a horizontal set-up with vertically gripped pallets, easy loading and unloading access (pallet height 1,100 mm) and hydraulic/pneumatic through-pallet clamping in automated operations.
Specifications: The a500iR has a footprint of 3,540 x 5,981 mm, is 2,989 mm high, weighs in at 16,000 kg and can be optionally fitted with mist collectors, coolant temperature control, 3D tool compensation and various other useful features.
For further information please contact:
Urko J. Ugalde
Head of Marketing and Product Planning
E-mail: [email protected]
Press photos available on request.
Further press releases from Makino Europe can be found in our overview.
