Redefining precision, power and productivity: the Makino a500iR

Published the 23/04/2026

The Makino a500iR, equipped with a brand-new 60 kW spindle at 24,000 rpm, was presented at EMO 2025 in Hannover. This spindle ensures extremely short cycle times in the machining of aluminum aerostructures and in the most complex applications in the semiconductor industry.

Designed for precision, speed and reliability

This latest addition to the Makino horizontal machining center range was designed to meet the growing demand for high-performance 5-axis simultaneous machining. Engineered for precision, speed, and proven reliability, this cutting-edge machine combines robust design with intelligent features to deliver exceptional results on a wide range of materials and applications.

The a500iR was developed for the ultra-efficient machining of small and medium-sized complex components, particularly for aerospace applications. It accommodates 500 x 500 mm pallets and offers axis travels of 900 mm (X), 750 mm (Y), and 800 mm (Z). The machine's exceptional machinability is due, among other things, to its undercut capability with 290° rotation (-110° to +180°) on the B-axis and continuous 360° rotation on the C-axis.

Outstanding features

• Superior Cutting Performance : Spindle options meet a wide range of machining needs, ensuring superior cutting performance for a wide range of applications:

- Standard spindle: 14,000 rpm, HSK-A63 interface, motor power 63/30 kW (S3 15%ED/S1), torque 303/120 Nm (S3 15%ED/S1).

- Optional spindles: 24,000 rpm with HSK-A63 interface and 60 kW motor power.

• Machining Capability : The a500iR enables stable, high-speed 5-axis machining:

- B-axis: rotation from -110° to +180°; C-axis: continuous 360° rotation

- Rapid feed rates up to 60,000 mm/min (linear), 16,000 degrees per minute (B-axis) and 36,000 degrees per minute (C-axis)

- Maximum workpiece dimensions: ø 900 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 central chip evacuation tank, multiple cooling systems (through the spindle, nozzles, cascade in the work area and C-axis) and a GI cut-off function to prevent chip wrap and tool wear during hole machining.

• Tool Management : The a500iR boasts advanced tool management features, such as:

- Standard 90-tool ring-type Automatic Tool Changer (ATC) and optional matrix-type ATC for up to 313 tools

- Broken Tool Detection Sensor (BTS) via camera

- Coolant recovery system to avoid excess coolant during tool changes

• Ergonomic operability : Designed for ease of use and efficient ergonomic operability, the a500iR features a horizontal configuration with vertical grip pallets, easy access for loading and unloading (pallet height 1,100 mm) and hydraulic/pneumatic pass-through pallet locking in automated operations.

• Specifications : The a500iR has a footprint of 3,540 x 5,981 mm, is 2,989 mm high, weighs 16,000 kg and can be optionally equipped with oil mist collectors, coolant temperature control, 3D tool compensation and other useful features.

For more information: Makino Europe GmbH

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