Willemin-Macodel 408B
Key Specifications
Maximum Bar Diameter
Maximum Turning Diameter
B-Axis Range
Number of Simultaneous Axes
Main Spindle Speed
Main Spindle Power
Overview
The Willemin-Macodel 408B is a high-performance turning machining center built around a B-axis milling spindle that enables true 5-axis simultaneous machining combined with precision turning capability. Designed for complex precision parts requiring sophisticated multi-plane milled features integrated with high-accuracy turned surfaces, the 408B represents Willemin-Macodel's answer to the growing demand for complete part machining in the medical, aerospace, and precision industrial sectors.
The B-axis architecture of the 408B differentiates it from conventional turn-mill machines with fixed or indexed milling orientations. The continuously interpolated B-axis allows the milling spindle to approach workpiece features from any angle within its range of motion, enabling complex inclined holes, compound-angle pockets, and multi-face milled features to be machined without manual repositioning. When combined with the turning spindle's C-axis, the 408B achieves simultaneous 5-axis machining on the primary workpiece face, pushing the boundaries of what can be completed in a single setup.
Willemin-Macodel has engineered the 408B with particular attention to the structural rigidity necessary to maintain precision during heavy milling operations. The machine's casting is finite-element-optimized for minimal deflection under the dynamic cutting forces generated by the high-speed B-axis milling spindle, ensuring that the tight tolerances on milled features are maintained even during aggressive metal removal operations. Integrated thermal compensation monitors and corrects for temperature-induced dimensional drift across all axes.
The 408B's tool magazine provides substantial tool capacity to support complex programs without manual tool changes. Combined with automatic bar feeding and part handling options, the 408B can run extended unattended production sequences, making it productive in both high-mix, lower-volume precision contract machining and medium-volume specialized part production environments where its B-axis capability is a genuine competitive differentiator.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Maximum Bar Diameter | 51 mm |
| Maximum Turning Diameter | 200 mm |
| B-Axis Range | −30° to +120° |
| Number Of Simultaneous Axes | 5 |
| Main Spindle Speed | 6,000 rpm |
| Main Spindle Power | 14 kW |
| Milling Spindle Speed | 24,000 rpm |
| Milling Spindle Power | 12 kW |
| Tool Magazine Capacity | 60 tools |
| Positioning Accuracy | 0.003 mm |
| CNC System | Siemens 840D sl |
| Machine Weight | ~8,000 kg |
| Machine Type | Machining Center |
| Num Of Axes | 5 |
| Operation Type | CNC |
| Cnc Brand | Fanuc 16i |
| Direction | Vertical |
| Taper | HSK-E40 |
| Top Rpm | 30,000 |
| Top Rpm Opt | 50,000 |
| Hp | 4.00 |
| Tool Carrier | ATC |
| Num Tools | 24 |
| Num Tools Opt | 48 |
| Tool Change Time | 1.00 |
| Tool Change Chip Time | 3.00 |
| Num Axes | 5 |
| U Axis | None |
| X1 | 9.840" |
| Y1 | 7.870" |
| Z1 | 11.810" |
| A1 | 360.000° |
| B1 | 110.000° |
Specifications sourced from techspex.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- Continuously interpolated B-axis enables true 5-axis milling simultaneous with C-axis turning for complex compound-angle features
- 51mm bar capacity handles a wide range of medical, aerospace, and industrial precision part diameters
- High-power milling spindle (12 kW at 24,000 rpm) supports both high-speed finishing and efficient rough milling
- 60-tool magazine enables long unattended production cycles with complex multi-operation programs
- Active thermal compensation across all axes maintains dimensional accuracy through full production shift temperature changes
Limitations
- High capital cost requires sustained utilization on complex parts to achieve competitive cost per part versus simpler machines
- B-axis programming complexity demands experienced 5-axis CAM programmers for full capability exploitation
- Machine footprint and weight require solid floor foundations; not easily relocated within a facility
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
The B-axis is a continuously interpolated rotary axis that tilts the milling spindle relative to the workpiece. Unlike machines with fixed or indexed milling orientations, the 408B's B-axis can be interpolated simultaneously with the other linear and rotary axes, enabling true 5-axis machining of inclined holes, compound-angle pockets, and multi-face features without removing the workpiece from the turning spindle.
02
Both machines share the 408 platform's general capacity range, but the 408B emphasizes B-axis simultaneous 5-axis milling capability for complex multi-axis milled features integrated with turning. The 408MT focuses on multi-tasking with a different tooling configuration. The 408B is the choice when complex angled milling features are the primary driver; the 408MT when multi-tasking flexibility across a broader range of operations is prioritized.
03
Yes. The 408B supports counter spindle or workpiece transfer configurations that enable rear face machining to complete back-end features without removing the part from the machine environment. This completes the part in a single machine cycle, eliminating secondary operations and their associated setup time and re-chucking errors.
04
The 408B's 5-axis simultaneous capability is best exploited with a capable multi-axis CAM system. Commonly used platforms include Siemens NX CAM, Hypermill, Mastercam with 5-axis options, and ESPRIT, all of which support the Siemens 840D sl post-processor required for the 408B's CNC system. Willemin-Macodel provides post-processors and application support for major CAM platforms.
05
The 408B can serve both, but its highest return on investment comes from complex parts where its B-axis capability eliminates multiple setups. For simpler high-volume turning work, less capable machines provide better economics. The 408B is most cost-effective when part complexity genuinely requires 5-axis simultaneous machining and when part values are high enough to justify the machine's premium hourly rate.
Videos
KRAFFTER Machine Tools
RDMO Second-Hand Machine Tools
Premier Equipment, Inc.
Related Machines
Mazak Integrex i-200
Okuma Multus B250II
DMG Mori CTX gamma 2000 TC
DMG Mori NTX 2000
DN Solutions SMX 3100ST
