Machine Comparison
Heller CB 4 vs Makino a120nx
Heller vs Makino · Horizontal Machining Centers
Summary
The Heller CB 4 from Heller and Makino a120nx from Makino are direct competitors in the horizontal machining centers category. The Heller CB 4 leads in max spindle speed (12,000 rpm vs 8,000 RPM). The Makino a120nx leads in x travel (1,600 mm (63.0 in) vs 800 mm (31.5 in)). The Heller CB 4 leads in rapid traverse (65 m/min (2,559 ipm) all axes vs 42 m/min (1,654 ipm)). The Makino a120nx shows specification advantages in 8 categories, though the Heller CB 4 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 horizontal machining center.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Heller CB 4 | Makino a120nx |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 800 mm (31.5 in) | 1,600 mm (63.0 in) ▲ |
| Y-Axis Travel | 800 mm (31.5 in) | 1,350 mm (53.1 in) ▲ |
| Z-Axis Travel | 800 mm (31.5 in) | 1,400 mm (55.1 in) ▲ |
| Max Spindle Speed | 12,000 rpm ▲ | 8,000 RPM |
| Spindle Power | 44 kW (59 hp) continuous | 55 kW (73.7 hp) continuous ▲ |
| Spindle Torque | 460 Nm (339 ft-lb) | 1,000 Nm (738 ft-lb) ▲ |
| Tool Capacity | 60 (expandable to 120) | 100 tools standard (expandable) ▲ |
| Rapid Traverse | 65 m/min (2,559 ipm) all axes ▲ | 42 m/min (1,654 ipm) |
| Control | Siemens Sinumerik 840D sl | Makino Professional 6 (Pro 6) |
| Pallet Size | 630 x 630 mm (24.8 x 24.8 in) | 1,250 x 1,250 mm (49.2 x 49.2 in) ▲ |
| Spindle Taper | HSK-A63 | HSK-A100 |
| B Axis | 1° indexing (360 positions) | Direct-drive, 360° continuous, 0.001° indexing ▲ |
| Number Of Pallets | 2 (dual pallet changer) | 2 standard |
| Price Range | $500,000 - $750,000 ▲ | $1,800,000 - $2,800,000 |
Advantages
Heller CB 4
- Higher maximum spindle speed of 12,000 rpm enables faster cutting on aluminum and non-ferrous materials
- Faster rapid traverse at 65 m/min (2,559 ipm) all axes reduces non-cutting time between operations
- More competitive pricing at $500,000 - $750,000 compared to $1,800,000 - $2,800,000
Makino a120nx
- Greater x travel of 1,600 mm (63.0 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater y travel of 1,350 mm (53.1 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater z travel of 1,400 mm (55.1 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- More spindle power at 55 kW (73.7 hp) continuous for aggressive material removal in harder materials
- Superior spindle torque at 1,000 Nm (738 ft-lb) vs 460 Nm (339 ft-lb)
Verdict
The Makino a120nx edges ahead on specifications in this comparison, particularly in X Travel and Y Travel. However, the Heller CB 4 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.