Machine Comparison
DMG Mori CLX 450 TC vs DMG Mori CLX 550 TC
DMG Mori vs DMG Mori · Mill-Turn Machines
Summary
The DMG Mori CLX 450 TC and DMG Mori CLX 550 TC are both from DMG Mori's mill-turn machines lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the DMG Mori ecosystem. The DMG Mori CLX 550 TC leads in chuck size (12 in (305 mm) vs 10 in (254 mm)). The DMG Mori CLX 550 TC shows specification advantages in 8 categories, though the DMG Mori CLX 450 TC may still be the better choice depending on your shop's specific needs and the type of work you run. Both machines are proven performers in production environments and represent solid investments for shops in the market for a mill-turn machine.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | DMG Mori CLX 450 TC | DMG Mori CLX 550 TC |
|---|---|---|
| Rapid Traverse | 30 m/min (1,181 ipm) | 30 m/min (1,181 ipm) |
| Chuck Size | 10 in (254 mm) | 12 in (305 mm) ▲ |
| Bar Capacity | 65 mm (2.6 in) | 80 mm (3.1 in) ▲ |
| Max Turning Diameter | 400 mm (15.7 in) | 500 mm (19.7 in) ▲ |
| Max Turning Length | 450 mm (17.7 in) | 550 mm (21.7 in) ▲ |
| Machine Weight | 7,500 kg (16,535 lb) ▲ | 8,800 kg (19,400 lb) |
| Control | CELOS with Siemens SINUMERIK 840D sl | CELOS with Siemens SINUMERIK 840D sl |
| Max X Axis Travel | 310 mm (12.2 in) | 365 mm (14.4 in) ▲ |
| Max Y Axis Travel | 100 mm (3.9 in) / +/-50 mm | 100 mm (3.9 in) / +/-50 mm |
| Max Z Axis Travel | 510 mm (20.1 in) | 600 mm (23.6 in) ▲ |
| Main Spindle Speed | 5,000 RPM ▲ | 4,500 RPM |
| Main Spindle Power | 22 kW (30 hp) | 28 kW (37.5 hp) ▲ |
| Main Spindle Torque | 350 Nm | 500 Nm ▲ |
| Turn Mill Spindle Speed | 10,000 RPM | 10,000 RPM |
| Price Range | $250,000 - $350,000 ▲ | $280,000 - $380,000 |
Advantages
DMG Mori CLX 450 TC
- Lighter at 7,500 kg (16,535 lb), potentially easier installation and lower foundation requirements
- Superior main spindle speed at 5,000 RPM vs 4,500 RPM
- More competitive pricing at $250,000 - $350,000 compared to $280,000 - $380,000
DMG Mori CLX 550 TC
- Superior chuck size at 12 in (305 mm) vs 10 in (254 mm)
- Superior bar capacity at 80 mm (3.1 in) vs 65 mm (2.6 in)
- Superior max turning diameter at 500 mm (19.7 in) vs 400 mm (15.7 in)
- Superior max turning length at 550 mm (21.7 in) vs 450 mm (17.7 in)
- Superior max x axis travel at 365 mm (14.4 in) vs 310 mm (12.2 in)
Verdict
The DMG Mori CLX 550 TC edges ahead on specifications in this comparison, particularly in Chuck Size and Bar Capacity. However, the DMG Mori CLX 450 TC remains competitive and may be the better choice depending on price, dealer support in your area, or specific workholding and tooling considerations. Both are capable machines — the best decision comes from running your actual parts and evaluating total cost of ownership including tooling, training, and service.