Machine Comparison
WFL M35 vs WFL M50
WFL vs WFL · Mill-Turn Machines
Summary
The WFL M35 and WFL M50 are both from WFL's mill-turn machines lineup, making this a common upgrade or lineup decision for shops already invested in the WFL ecosystem. The WFL M50 leads in tool capacity (80 standard (200 optional) vs 40 - 80 tools). The WFL M50 shows specification advantages in 6 categories, though the WFL M35 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 | WFL M35 | WFL M50 |
|---|---|---|
| Tool Capacity | 40 - 80 tools | 80 standard (200 optional) ▲ |
| Control | Siemens SINUMERIK 840D sl | Siemens SINUMERIK 840D sl with Millturn PRO |
| Swing Diameter | 350 mm (13.8 in) | 500 mm (19.7 in) ▲ |
| Turning Length | Up to 1,000 mm (39.4 in) | 2,000 mm (78.7 in) standard, up to 4,500 mm optional ▲ |
| Main Spindle Power | 22 kW (30 hp) | 44 kW (59 HP) continuous ▲ |
| Main Spindle Speed | 5,000 RPM ▲ | 4,500 RPM |
| Milling Spindle Power | 20 kW (27 hp) | 22 kW (29.5 HP) ▲ |
| Milling Spindle Speed | 12,000 RPM | 12,000 RPM |
| Milling Spindle Taper | HSK-A63 | HSK-A63 |
| Machine Weight | 12,000 kg (26,455 lb) | 18,000 kg (39,683 lb) ▲ |
| Price Range | $500,000 - $750,000 ▲ | $900,000 - $1,500,000 |
Advantages
WFL M35
- Superior main spindle speed at 5,000 RPM vs 4,500 RPM
- More competitive pricing at $500,000 - $750,000 compared to $900,000 - $1,500,000
- Backed by WFL's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Aerospace manufacturers producing complex engine shafts, turbine disks, landing gear components, and actuator housings that combine turned diameters with 5-axis milled features in a single setup
WFL M50
- Larger tool magazine with 80 standard (200 optional) capacity reduces manual tool changes on complex parts
- Superior swing diameter at 500 mm (19.7 in) vs 350 mm (13.8 in)
- Superior turning length at 2,000 mm (78.7 in) standard, up to 4,500 mm optional vs Up to 1,000 mm (39.4 in)
- Superior main spindle power at 44 kW (59 HP) continuous vs 22 kW (30 hp)
- Superior milling spindle power at 22 kW (29.5 HP) vs 20 kW (27 hp)
Verdict
The WFL M50 edges ahead on specifications in this comparison, particularly in Tool Capacity and swing diameter. However, the WFL M35 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.