GF Machining Solutions 5-Axis Machining Centers

GF Mikron MILL P 500 U

$380,000 - $520,000 Updated 2025-03-15

Key Specifications

X Travel

500 mm (19.7 in)

Y Travel

450 mm (17.7 in)

Z Travel

400 mm (15.7 in)

Max Spindle

20,000 RPM

Spindle Taper

HSK-A63

Tool Capacity

30 tools (60 / 120 / 170 / 215 optional)

Overview

The GF Mikron MILL P 500 U is GF Machining Solutions' performance-class 5-axis machining center, combining the P series' legendary thermal stability and precision with full 5-axis simultaneous capability. With 500 x 450 x 400 mm (19.7 x 17.7 x 15.7 in) of X/Y/Z travel and a trunnion table providing -30° to +115° A-axis swivel with continuous C-axis rotation, this machine targets the most demanding 5-axis mold finishing and precision component work.

The P designation means this machine is engineered for absolute accuracy retention over extended machining cycles. Active thermal compensation monitors the spindle, structure, and ambient temperatures with continuous real-time correction, maintaining ±4 µm dimensional stability through 24-hour unattended 5-axis programs. For mold shops producing complex 5-axis cavities where every micron of form error shows up in the molded part, this level of thermal control is the difference between acceptable and exceptional.

The spindle options include a 20,000 RPM HSK-A63 with 36 kW and 120 Nm of torque, providing genuine roughing-through-finishing capability in 5-axis. The polymer granite base delivers vibration damping 6-8x better than cast iron, enabling the surface finishes that reduce or eliminate hand polishing on complex mold surfaces. Feed rate reaches 45 m/min (1,772 ipm), and the tool magazine offers 30 to 215 pockets via the tool tower system.

The Heidenhain TNC 7 control with advanced 5-axis kinematic calibration ensures volumetric accuracy across the full range of A and C axis positions. System 3R and Erowa automation integration supports pallet-based lights-out production of high-value 5-axis mold components.

New MILL P 500 U machines price between $380,000 and $520,000. The P 500 U competes with the Hermle C 250, Makino DA300, and Yasda YBM Vi40-5AX in the ultra-precision 5-axis mold finishing segment.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
X-Axis Travel	500 mm (19.7 in)
Y-Axis Travel	450 mm (17.7 in)
Z-Axis Travel	400 mm (15.7 in)
Max Spindle Speed	20,000 RPM
Spindle Taper	HSK-A63
Spindle Motor Power	36 kW (48 hp)
Spindle Torque	120 Nm (88.5 ft-lb)
Tool Capacity	30 tools (60 / 120 / 170 / 215 optional)
Table Size	Ø 500 mm (19.7 in) trunnion
Max Work Weight	300 kg (661 lb)
Rapid Traverse Rate	45 m/min (1,772 ipm)
Swivel Range	A-axis: -30° to +115°, C-axis: 360° continuous
Thermal Accuracy	±4 µm over 24-hour cycle
CNC Control	Heidenhain TNC 7
Machine Weight	9,500 kg (20,944 lb)
Machine Base	Polymer granite

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

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

Active thermal compensation maintains ±4 µm accuracy over 24-hour 5-axis cycles — industry-leading stability
HSK-A63 spindle with 36 kW and 120 Nm enables roughing through finishing in 5-axis on a single platform
Polymer granite base provides 6-8x better vibration damping than cast iron for superior 5-axis surface finishes
215-pocket tool tower option supports the most complex 5-axis programs without manual tool intervention
Heidenhain TNC 7 with advanced 5-axis kinematic calibration ensures volumetric accuracy across all approach angles
System 3R and Erowa automation compatibility for lights-out 5-axis precision production

Limitations

Premium pricing at $380K-$520K requires high-value precision work to justify the investment
Ø 500 mm trunnion table limits workpiece diameter — larger 5-axis work requires the P 800 U
20,000 RPM max spindle speed is lower than the S series' 42K RPM for ultra-fine finishing applications
300 kg max workpiece weight constrains the size of steel mold components that can be machined
GF's 5-axis service presence is smaller than competitors like Hermle and DMG Mori in many regions

Best For

Ultra-precision 5-axis mold finishing where ±4 µm thermal stability is essential for acceptable part quality Complex 5-axis mold cavities and cores requiring the combination of accuracy, finish quality, and geometry access Medical implant production requiring validated dimensional stability over extended 5-axis machining cycles Optical and precision instrument components machined in 5-axis with the tightest tolerances Automated precision 5-axis manufacturing cells for high-value mold and aerospace components Shops needing a 5-axis platform that handles both roughing and finishing with performance-class accuracy

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What does a new GF Mikron MILL P 500 U cost?

New MILL P 500 U machines price between $380,000 and $520,000 depending on tool magazine size, automation, and options. The tool tower (215 pockets) adds approximately $40,000-$60,000. Full automation with System 3R adds $80,000-$200,000. Used machines from 2017-2021 trade between $160,000 and $340,000.

02 What's the difference between the P 500 U and S 400 U?

The P 500 U uses an HSK-A63 spindle at 20K RPM with 120 Nm torque and active thermal management for ±4 µm accuracy over 24 hours. The S 400 U uses an HSK-E40 spindle at 42K RPM with 8.8 Nm for speed-class surface finishing. The P 500 U is more versatile (roughing + finishing) and more accurate; the S 400 U achieves better surface finishes on fine detail work. Choose based on whether precision or finishing speed is your priority.

03 How does the P 500 U compare to the Hermle C 250?

Both are ultra-precision 5-axis machines with mineral-based beds and trunnion tables. The Hermle C 250 uses a modified gantry architecture that keeps workpiece mass out of the linear axes. The P 500 U offers active thermal compensation and higher spindle power (36 kW vs 20 kW). The Hermle typically specs better standard accuracy; the P 500 U offers more material removal capability. Pricing is comparable.

04 Can the P 500 U machine titanium and Inconel?

Yes. The 120 Nm HSK-A63 spindle with 36 kW power handles titanium and nickel alloy machining at production rates. The polymer granite base absorbs the vibration generated during interrupted cuts typical in 5-axis titanium work. The P 500 U is a proven platform for aerospace components in difficult materials.

05 Why choose the P 500 U over the HPM 400U?

The HPM 400U prioritizes material removal rate with 35 kW power focused on aggressive cutting. The P 500 U prioritizes thermal stability and accuracy retention with active compensation. If your primary challenge is dimensional stability over long cycles, choose the P. If maximum metal removal in tough materials is the priority, choose the HPM. Both handle roughing and finishing.