Industrial CNC Machine Directory

Chiron FZ 12 FX S

$350,000 – $550,000 Updated 2026-03-17
01

Key Specifications

X Travel

17.7 in (450 mm)

Y Travel

17.7 in (450 mm)

Z Travel

15.7 in (400 mm)

Max Workpiece Diameter

15.7 in (400 mm)

Spindle Speed

20,000 RPM

Spindle Power

35 hp (26 kW)

02

Overview

The Chiron FZ 12 FX S is a single-spindle 5-axis machining center from the Chiron FZ 12 platform family, configured with the FX swivel head and a direct-drive rotary table for simultaneous 5-axis interpolation. Designed for high-speed production of complex small-to-medium aluminum, titanium, and steel components, it combines Chiron's signature speed-oriented architecture with the geometric versatility required for aerospace, automotive, and medical applications.

The FZ 12 FX S uses a fork-type swivel head (A-axis) combined with a rotating table (C-axis) to achieve full 5-axis simultaneous interpolation with excellent accessibility to all workpiece faces. The direct-drive torque motor on the rotary axes eliminates mechanical backlash and enables continuous contouring at high feed rates — a critical characteristic for turbine blades, impellers, and complex structural components. The spindle runs up to 20,000 RPM with the standard configuration, with options for higher speeds in aluminum-focused applications.

Chiron integrates its SmartLine digital monitoring suite into the FZ 12 FX S, providing real-time process data, condition monitoring, and integration with MES/ERP systems. This makes the machine a natural fit for Industry 4.0 production environments where traceability and predictive maintenance are operational requirements alongside raw cycle time performance.

The FZ 12 FX S is a well-established choice for aerospace subcontractors producing structural brackets, fittings, and engine components, as well as automotive shops manufacturing complex aluminum castings and titanium suspension components. Its compact footprint relative to its capability makes it suitable for cell-based production layouts with robotic part handling.

03

Full Specifications

Parameter Value
X Travel 17.7 in (450 mm)
Y Travel 17.7 in (450 mm)
Z Travel 15.7 in (400 mm)
Max Workpiece Diameter 15.7 in (400 mm)
Spindle Speed 20,000 RPM
Spindle Power 35 hp (26 kW)
Spindle Taper HSK-A63
ATC Capacity 48 tools
Rotary Axes A-axis ±110° (swivel head), C-axis 360° (rotary table)
Control System Siemens Sinumerik 840D sl
Machine Weight approx. 24,250 lb (11,000 kg)
English Greek
Chiron Χείρων (translit. Cheírōn)
Phonetic IPA
Kahy Ron /ˈkaɪ rɒn/
Father Mother
Cronus Philyra
Brothers Sisters
Hadeszeusposeidon HeraDemeterHestia
Daughters Son
Endeishippoocyrhoe Carystus
Manufacturer Chiron
Model FZ12
Spindle Taper CAT 40

Specifications sourced from machinio.com — verified 2026-03-28

04

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

  • Fork-type swivel head provides excellent accessibility and rigidity for 5-axis simultaneous cutting
  • Direct-drive torque motors on rotary axes eliminate backlash for precise contouring
  • HSK-A63 taper enables high-speed finishing with excellent tool stability
  • SmartLine digital integration supports Industry 4.0 traceability and condition monitoring

Limitations

  • High acquisition cost places it above many general-purpose 5-axis platforms
  • Fork-type head limits maximum part height compared to trunnion table configurations
  • Siemens 840D sl control requires experienced operators or significant training investment
05

Best For

Aerospace subcontractors producing structural brackets, engine components, and complex fittings Automotive shops machining titanium suspension parts, aluminum castings, and complex housings Medical device manufacturers producing 5-axis implants and surgical instruments at production volumes
06

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What is the difference between the FZ 12 FX S and the FZ 12 S in Chiron's lineup?

The FZ 12 FX S adds the FX swivel head configuration for simultaneous 5-axis interpolation, while the FZ 12 S is a 3-axis (or 3+2 indexed) vertical machining center. The FX S is designed for complex compound geometry that requires continuous 5-axis motion rather than indexed positioning.

02 Is a twin-spindle version of the FZ 12 FX S available?

Yes. Chiron offers the DZ 12 FX S, which is the dual-spindle variant of this platform. The DZ configuration doubles throughput for high-volume production where workpiece size fits within each spindle's work envelope.

03 What automation options are available for the FZ 12 FX S?

Chiron offers its own automation solutions including the Variocell Uno and Variocell Pallet robotic loading systems designed to integrate directly with the FZ 12 FX S. Third-party robot integration is also supported through standard interfaces.

07

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