Expertise · Machine Types
Machining Centers
Machining centers are the core of modern manufacturing — and one of the most active segments on the used-machine market. MBR regularly trades 3-axis, 5-axis and horizontal machining centers from all leading manufacturers.
Segments and use cases
3-axis vertical machining centers (VMC)
The most widespread format in contract manufacturing and series production. Typical examples: Haas VF series, DMG Mori CMX, Mazak Nexus, Chiron FZ series. For standard parts without complex angled surfaces, the most cost-effective solution — very liquid on the used market because supply and demand are both broad.
2026 price range: Haas VF-2 (built 2014–2018): €25,000–50,000. DMG Mori CMX 600 V (built 2016–2020): €45,000–75,000.
5-axis machining centers
5-axis enables machining complex free-form surfaces in one setup — essential for tool & mould making, aerospace, medical and high-end automotive supply. The used market for well-documented 5-axis is stable in 2026: supply of verified machines in good condition is limited, demand is high.
Leading used-market models: Hermle C32 / C42 / C52, DMG Mori DMU 50 / DMU 65 monoBLOCK, Roeders RXP 501 / 601, Grob G350 / G550, Mazak Variaxis i-500 / i-700.
2026 price range: Hermle C42 (built 2016–2020, well maintained): €130,000–220,000. DMG Mori DMU 65 monoBLOCK (built 2017–2021): €120,000–200,000. Roeders RXP 601 (built 2015–2019): €110,000–190,000.
Horizontal machining centers (HMC)
Horizontal centers with pallet changer are the backbone of series production in automotive and machine-building. The horizontal spindle orientation lets chips fall freely from the machining zone — a decisive advantage on long production runs.
Relevant models: DMG Mori NHX 4000 / 5000, Mazak HCN 4000 / 5000, Okuma MB-4000 / MB-5000, MAG HMC 500 / 630. 2026 price range: NHX 4000 (built 2013–2017): €90,000–150,000.
Controller platforms on machining centers
Heidenhain TNC (iTNC 530 / TNC 640)
Standard on 5-axis MCs from Hermle, DMG Mori (DMU series) and Deckel-Maho. Excellent path control, conversational plain-text programming, high precision on free-form surfaces. TNC 640 is the modern successor — partially software-compatible with iTNC 530. Buyers with Heidenhain experience strongly prefer this platform.
Siemens 840D sl
Preferred controller on German horizontal centers (DMG Mori NHX, Chiron, MAG) and on special machines. Extensive parameterisation. For shops with mixed pools (turn + mill), often the most harmonised platform.
Fanuc 30i / 31i
Global leader in CNC controllers. Wide distribution on Mazak, Okuma, Chiron and Asian manufacturers. Particularly attractive for export markets (Turkey, MENA, Latin America) — local Fanuc service networks are present almost everywhere.
Inspection points on machining centers
- Spindle tests: Test the main spindle at various RPM — running quality, temperature evolution, radial runout. Check spindle hours against operating hours for plausibility.
- Axis test for backlash: All linear axes (X, Y, Z) tested for backlash and positioning accuracy. On 5-axis additionally A/C or B/C axes for play and repeatability.
- Alarm history: Read out controller alarms from the last 12–24 months. Recurring temperature or axis alarms are warning signs — even when the machine currently runs cleanly.
- Tool changer: Test cycle time, run all positions, check gripper fit and magazine condition. Most common expensive wear point.
- Geometry test: Linearity and squareness with laser interferometer or ballbar — particularly on 5-axis and HMC with pallet changer.
- Coolant system: Pressure, flow, pump condition. On high-pressure systems (up to 70 bar) check seals and connections.
What MBR offers on machining centers
- Acquisition: MBR buys VMC, 5-axis and horizontal centers directly — single machines and machine pools.
- Sourcing: Looking for a specific model or configuration? MBR searches the dealer and industry network — not just public exchanges.
- Full inspection: Spindle tests, axis measurements, alarm history, tool changer — documented in a written inspection report.
- Worldwide export: Particular experience with transport of 5-axis with swivel/rotary table — specific packaging requirements, export to Turkey, MENA, Mexico.
Frequently asked
What does a used 5-axis machining center cost? +
Depending on manufacturer and year, €80,000–250,000. Hermle C42 (built 2016–2020): €130,000–220,000. DMG Mori DMU 65 monoBLOCK (built 2017–2021): €120,000–200,000. Well-documented machines with inspection report fetch noticeably better prices than undocumented ones.
When does 5-axis pay off over 3+2-axis? +
Simultaneous 5-axis pays off on complex free-form surfaces (moulds, turbine blades, medical) and on parts that should be machined complete in one setup. For standard parts, 3+2 (tilt + fix) is often sufficient and cheaper.
Which manufacturers are particularly sought after used? +
For 5-axis: Hermle, DMG Mori (DMU series), Roeders. For VMC: Haas (high liquidity, low entry), DMG Mori CMX, Mazak Nexus. For HMC: DMG Mori NHX, Mazak HCN.