Machine Comparison
DMG Mori CMX 50 U vs Hermle C 12
DMG Mori vs Hermle · 5-Axis Machining Centers
Summary
The DMG Mori CMX 50 U from DMG Mori and Hermle C 12 from Hermle are direct competitors in the 5-axis machining centers category. The Hermle C 12 leads in max spindle speed (18,000 RPM standard (12,000 to 42,000 RPM options) vs 12,000 RPM (15,000 RPM optional)). The DMG Mori CMX 50 U leads in x travel (500 mm (19.7 in) vs 350 mm (13.8 in)). The Hermle C 12 leads in tool capacity (36 tools (HSK-A63) vs 30 tools standard (60 optional)). On paper, the DMG Mori CMX 50 U edges ahead with advantages in 7 of the compared specifications, though real-world performance depends heavily on your specific applications and workholding. Both machines are proven performers in production environments and represent solid investments for shops in the market for a 5-axis machining center.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | DMG Mori CMX 50 U | Hermle C 12 |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 500 mm (19.7 in) ▲ | 350 mm (13.8 in) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 450 mm (17.7 in) ▲ | 440 mm (17.3 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 400 mm (15.7 in) ▲ | 330 mm (13.0 in) |
| Max Spindle Speed | 12,000 RPM (15,000 RPM optional) | 18,000 RPM standard (12,000 to 42,000 RPM options) ▲ |
| Tool Capacity | 30 tools standard (60 optional) | 36 tools (HSK-A63) ▲ |
| Rapid Traverse | 30 m/min (1,181 ipm) | 30 m/min (1,181 ipm) standard; 50 m/min (1,969 ipm) optional |
| Control | CELOS with Fanuc 31i-B5 or Siemens 840D sl | Heidenhain TNC 640 or Siemens SINUMERIK 840D sl |
| Spindle Taper | CAT 40 / BBT 40 | HSK-A63 |
| Tool Change Time | 3.0 sec tool-to-tool | 4.5 sec chip-to-chip ▲ |
| Table Diameter | 500 mm (19.7 in) ▲ | 320 mm (12.6 in) |
| Max Table Load | 200 kg (441 lb) ▲ | 100 kg (220 lb) |
| Max Workpiece Diameter | 500 mm (19.7 in) ▲ | 320 mm (12.6 in) |
| Machine Weight | 6,600 kg (14,551 lb) | 7,200 kg (15,873 lb) ▲ |
| Price Range | $175,000 - $275,000 ▲ | $300,000 - $425,000 |
Advantages
DMG Mori CMX 50 U
- Greater x travel of 500 mm (19.7 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater y travel of 450 mm (17.7 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater z travel of 400 mm (15.7 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Superior table diameter at 500 mm (19.7 in) vs 320 mm (12.6 in)
- Superior max table load at 200 kg (441 lb) vs 100 kg (220 lb)
Hermle C 12
- Higher maximum spindle speed of 18,000 RPM standard (12,000 to 42,000 RPM options) enables faster cutting on aluminum and non-ferrous materials
- Larger tool magazine with 36 tools (HSK-A63) capacity reduces manual tool changes on complex parts
- Superior tool change time at 4.5 sec chip-to-chip vs 3.0 sec tool-to-tool
- Superior machine weight at 7,200 kg (15,873 lb) vs 6,600 kg (14,551 lb)
Verdict
The DMG Mori CMX 50 U holds a spec advantage in this comparison, but the right choice depends on your shop's priorities. If the DMG Mori CMX 50 U's strengths in areas like X Travel and Y Travel align with your work, it's the clear pick. The Hermle C 12 may still win on dealer proximity, existing tooling compatibility, or specific features that matter most to your applications. Request quotes from both dealers and, if possible, run your actual parts on each machine before deciding.