Matsuura MX-520 PC4

$350,000 - $450,000 Updated 2026-03-19

Key Specifications

X Travel

630 mm (24.8 in)

Y Travel

560 mm (22.0 in)

Z Travel

510 mm (20.1 in)

Max Spindle

12,000 RPM (optional 15,000 / 20,000 RPM)

Spindle Taper

BT40 / CAT40 (HSK-A63 optional)

Tool Capacity

90 standard (120 optional)

Overview

The Matsuura MX-520 PC4 adds a Matsuura-designed 4-pallet changer to the best-selling MX-520 platform, transforming one of the most popular entry-level 5-axis machines into a genuine lights-out production cell. The base MX-520 already proved itself as the go-to machine for shops transitioning from 3-axis to 5-axis work. The PC4 variant takes that proven platform and adds the automation needed to keep the spindle cutting during operator breaks, shift changes, and overnight runs.

Axis travel carries over from the standard MX-520 at 630 x 560 x 510 mm (24.8 x 22.0 x 20.1 in) on X/Y/Z. The A-axis tilts from +10 to -125 degrees and the C-axis rotates a full 360 degrees. Max workpiece size is 520 mm diameter by 330 mm tall (20.5 x 13.0 in) — slightly reduced from the single-table version's 350 mm height to accommodate the pallet changer mechanism. Table load capacity is 175 kg (386 lb) per pallet, down from the single-table's 200 kg but still practical for most 5-axis fixturing scenarios.

The standard spindle is a BT40 at 12,000 RPM with 7.5/11 kW (10/15 hp), with 15,000 and 20,000 RPM options available. HSK-A63 tooling can be specified. The PC4 configuration comes standard with a 90-tool magazine (120-tool option available) to support the variety of tooling needed across four different pallet setups. Tool-to-tool change time is 1.1 seconds. Rapid traverse hits 40 m/min on all linear axes.

The 4-pallet changer operates within the machine's compact footprint, adding only modest floor space to the standard MX-520. Pallet change time is approximately 22 seconds. The G-Tech 31i control manages pallet scheduling, and CAMplete TruePath comes standard for G-code verification. The MX-520 PC4 weighs approximately 10,500 kg (23,149 lb) with a footprint of roughly 4,200 x 2,500 mm. It competes directly with machines like the DMG Mori DMU 50 with PH 150 pallet handling, Hermle C 250 with HS flex, and Mazak VARIAXIS C-600 with automation.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
X-Axis Travel	630 mm (24.8 in)
Y-Axis Travel	560 mm (22.0 in)
Z-Axis Travel	510 mm (20.1 in)
A Axis Range	+10° to -125°
C Axis Range	360° (continuous)
Max Spindle Speed	12,000 RPM (optional 15,000 / 20,000 RPM)
Spindle Taper	BT40 / CAT40 (HSK-A63 optional)
Spindle Motor Power	7.5 / 11 kW (10 / 15 hp)
Tool Capacity	90 standard (120 optional)
Pallet Capacity	4 pallets
Table Diameter	300 mm (11.8 in)
Max Workpiece Size	520 mm dia x 330 mm H (20.5 x 13.0 in)
Table Load Capacity	175 kg (386 lb) per pallet
Rapid Traverse Xyz	40 m/min (1,575 ipm)
Tool Change Time	1.1 sec (tool-to-tool)
Pallet Change Time	~22 sec
Machine Weight	10,500 kg (23,149 lb)
Floor Space Required	4,200 x 2,500 mm
CNC Control	Matsuura G-Tech 31i (FANUC 31i-B5 based, touch screen)
Mx Series	MAM72 Series
Mx 330mx 330 Pc10mx 420 Pc10mx 520mx 520 Pc4mx 520tmx 850mx 850 Pc4	MAM72-35VMAM72-42VMAM72-52VMAM72-70VMAM72-100H
Max Work Sizemm	D710 x H350 (bullet shape) / pallet type option D520 x H330
Travel Mm	630/560/510
Mx 520 Pc4	MAM72-52V
Industriesaerospace And Defense Automotive And High Performance Die Mold Medical	Technology5-Axis Machining Centers ›

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

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

Adds 4-pallet automation to the proven MX-520 platform without significantly expanding the machine footprint
90-tool standard magazine covers the tooling variety needed across four different pallet setups without constant tool swapping
175 kg per-pallet load capacity handles the vast majority of 5-axis fixturing scenarios for parts up to 520 mm diameter
1.1-second tool-to-tool change time maintains the fast cycle times the MX-520 is known for
CAMplete TruePath and G-Tech 31i control carry over from the single-table version — no retraining required for existing MX-520 operators
Universal Robot Interface support enables integration with robotic loading systems for even higher levels of automation

Limitations

Max workpiece height reduced to 330 mm from 350 mm on the single-table version due to pallet changer clearance requirements
175 kg per-pallet load capacity is 25 kg less than the single-table MX-520, which may matter for heavy fixture setups
BT40 spindle with 11 kW still limits heavy roughing in steel and titanium compared to BT50-equipped competitors
Four pallets provide modest automation compared to the MX-330 PC10 (10 pallets) or MAM72 series (32+ pallets)

Best For

Job shops that already own or are familiar with the MX-520 and want to add automation without changing platforms Medical device manufacturers running 4 different implant setups in rotation for continuous production Aerospace prototype shops that need unattended overnight 5-axis runs across multiple part numbers Contract manufacturers wanting their first automated 5-axis cell at a lower capital commitment than a full FMS Shops with limited floor space that need pallet automation in a compact footprint under 4.2 x 2.5 meters

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What does a Matsuura MX-520 PC4 cost?

New MX-520 PC4 pricing typically ranges from $350,000 to $450,000, a meaningful premium over the single-table MX-520 ($250,000-$350,000). The premium buys the 4-pallet changer, upgraded 90-tool magazine, and pallet scheduling software. For shops that can keep all four pallets loaded with production work, the per-part cost reduction from higher spindle utilization typically justifies the investment within 12-18 months.

02 How does the MX-520 PC4 compare to the DMG Mori DMU 50 with PH 150?

Both are compact 5-axis machines with integrated pallet automation targeting similar work envelopes. The MX-520 PC4 offers more X-axis travel (630 vs 500 mm), faster tool changes (1.1 vs ~3.5 sec), and a lower price point. The DMU 50 with PH 150 offers Siemens or Heidenhain control options, a higher table load, and access to DMG Mori's extensive service network. The Matsuura is generally considered the better value; the DMG Mori offers more configurability.

03 Can the MX-520 PC4 run unattended overnight?

Yes, this is its primary purpose. With four pallets loaded, a 90-tool magazine, and typical cycle times of 30-90 minutes per pallet, the machine can run 2-6 hours unattended depending on part complexity. The limiting factors are tool life, coolant capacity, and chip management rather than the machine itself. Many shops report reliable overnight runs of 6-8 hours with proper chip conveyor and coolant maintenance.

04 What changed from the single-table MX-520 to the PC4?

The key changes are the addition of the 4-pallet changer, an upgrade from 60 to 90 standard tools, and a slight reduction in max workpiece height (330 vs 350 mm) and table load (175 vs 200 kg). The machining envelope, spindle options, control system, and axis performance are identical. The PC4 also adds the Universal Robot Interface for optional robotic part loading.