Hermle C 400 GEN2

$370,000 - $540,000 Updated 2026-03-19

Key Specifications

Spindle Taper

HSK-A63

Rapid Traverse

35 m/min (1,378 ipm)

Max Workpiece ⌀

650 mm (25.6 in)

Accuracy

+/- 0.005 mm (0.0002 in)

Repeatability

+/- 0.003 mm (0.00012 in)

x axis travel

850 mm (33.5 in)

Overview

The Hermle C 400 GEN2 is the updated generation of Hermle's mid-range Performance Line 5-axis machining center, featuring the Heidenhain TNC7 control and refined spindle options. With 850 x 700 x 500 mm (33.5 x 27.6 x 19.7 in) of X/Y/Z travel and a 2,000 kg (4,409 lb) table load capacity, the C 400 GEN2 handles substantial workpieces while maintaining Hermle's trademark precision from its mineral-cast construction.

The modified gantry architecture positions all three linear axes in the spindle carrier while the workpiece moves only in the A and C rotary axes, eliminating workpiece inertia effects during high-speed machining. The collision circle measures 885 mm (34.8 in), and vertical table clearance reaches 625 mm. The clamping table surface of 1,070 x 700 mm provides generous fixturing area.

Spindle options on the GEN2 include 15,000, 16,000, and 20,000 rpm on HSK-A63 with 20 kW (27 hp) continuous power and 173 Nm of torque. The 16,000 rpm option is new to the GEN2 lineup. Rapid traverse is 35 m/min (1,378 ipm) on all linear axes. The standard 38-tool magazine is expandable to 88 or 126 positions via add-on ZM modules.

The TNC7 control represents a major step forward from the TNC 640, with a modern touchscreen interface, improved Dynamic Precision features, and enhanced kinematic calibration routines. The mineral-cast base delivers vibration damping 6-8x superior to cast iron, which translates directly to better surface finish and longer tool life.

The C 400 GEN2 sits between the compact C 250 GEN2 and the larger C 650 GEN2 in the Performance Line. It competes directly with the DMG Mori DMU 65 monoBlock and Mazak Variaxis i-700. New pricing runs $370,000-$540,000 depending on configuration.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
X Axis Travel	850 mm (33.5 in)
Y Axis Travel	700 mm (27.6 in)
Z Axis Travel	500 mm (19.7 in)
A Axis Swivel	+/- 115 degrees (230 degrees total)
C Axis	360 degrees continuous
Collision Circle	Ø 885 mm
Table Surface	1,070 x 700 mm (42.1 x 27.6 in)
Table Load Capacity	2,000 kg (4,409 lb)
Max Workpiece Diameter	650 mm (25.6 in)
Vertical Clearance	625 mm (24.6 in) max
Spindle Speed	15,000 / 16,000 / 20,000 rpm
Spindle Motor	20 kW (27 hp) continuous
Spindle Torque	173 Nm (128 ft-lb)
Spindle Taper	HSK-A63
Tool Magazine	38 positions (88, 126 optional via ZM modules)
Rapid Traverse Rate	35 m/min (1,378 ipm)
Positioning Accuracy	+/- 0.005 mm (0.0002 in)
Repeatability	+/- 0.003 mm (0.00012 in)
Machine Base	Mineral cast
CNC Control	Heidenhain TNC7
Machine Weight	12,500 kg (27,558 lb)
Power Supply	400V, 3-phase, 50/60 Hz
Traverse Path	850 x 700 x 500 mm
Body	Ø 650 / H 500 mm
Vertical Table Clearance	max. 625 mm
Rotational Speed	15000/16000/20000 1/min
Rapid Traverse Linear X Y Z	35 m/min.
Rigid Clamping Table	1070 x 700 mm
Max Table Loading	2000 kg

Specifications sourced from hermle.de — verified 2026-03-28

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

Heidenhain TNC7 control with modern touchscreen and advanced Dynamic Precision features
2,000 kg table load capacity handles heavy steel and titanium workpieces without compromise
Mineral-cast base provides superior vibration damping for outstanding surface finish quality
Tool magazine expandable to 126 positions via ZM modules for high-mix production
Modified gantry design eliminates workpiece inertia effects during high-speed contouring
Can be transported without disassembly and set up without a special foundation

Limitations

35 m/min rapids are slower than competitors like DMG Mori DMU 65 at 42 m/min
Premium pricing exceeds many competitors in this class by 10-20%
500 mm Z-travel is relatively short for tall workpieces requiring deep 5-axis reach
Hermle North American service network is smaller than DMG Mori or Mazak

Best For

Mold and die shops producing complex 3D surfaces benefiting from mineral-cast vibration damping Aerospace component production requiring tight tolerances on aluminum and titanium parts Medical device manufacturers machining implants and surgical instruments Tool and fixture makers needing reliable 5-axis accuracy across diverse materials High-mix production shops needing expandable tool capacity in a compact footprint

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What changed from the original C 400 to the GEN2?

The GEN2 features the Heidenhain TNC7 control replacing the TNC 640, adds the 16,000 rpm spindle option, and includes updated drive technology and thermal management. The machine architecture and work envelope remain the same.

02 What does a Hermle C 400 GEN2 cost?

New machines run $370,000-$540,000 depending on spindle, tool magazine, and options. The TNC7 control adds a slight premium over the original C 400.

03 How does the C 400 GEN2 compare to the DMG Mori DMU 65?

The DMU 65 offers faster rapids and a Siemens control option. The C 400 GEN2 counters with Hermle's mineral-cast construction for better vibration damping, a 2,000 kg table load capacity, and the TNC7 control. Hermle typically delivers better surface finish on precision parts.

04 Can the C 400 GEN2 be automated?

Yes. Hermle offers the HS flex pallet handling system, the RS 05-2 robotic system, and integration with HACS automation control software. Automation options add $100,000-$250,000 depending on complexity.