Starrag has launched the Heckert X80, a versatile five-axis machining centre that delivers exceptional precision and productivity within a compact footprint. Building on the acclaimed Heckert HEC series, the Heckert X80 features a workpiece-side swivel unit, allowing for high-dynamic five-axis machining from a single clamping position.
The Heckert X80’s lightning-fast 65m/min traverse rate and industry-leading changeover times enhance productivity. Pallet changes are completed in just 21sec, while the tool changer provides chip-to-chip times of only 8sec. Standard 800 x 1,000mm pallets incorporate Starrag’s precision-engineered concave surfaces with 6µm curvature depth, ensuring stable positioning of large parts.
It also offers X, Y, and Z axis travels of 1,450 x 1300 x 1,300mm while requiring 18% less installation space than its HEC Series predecessor. It accommodates workpieces with a core contour diameter of 1,200mm and a maximum height of 1,000mm, supporting loading masses of up to 1,200kg. Within robust dimensions of 8.5 x 4m, the X80 delivers exceptional space utilisation without compromising performance.
Increased torque for heavy machiningThe Heckert X80 also provides a range of spindle options that cater to specific application requirements, from 12,500rev/min hollow shaft spindles to 15,000rev/min motor spindles, as well as various gear spindles that offer increased torque for heavy machining.
Starrag’s innovative tool change system offers both lightweight and heavy-duty versions. The lightweight option accommodates tools weighing up to 22kg, while the heavy-duty version supports tools weighing as much as 50kg. The maximum tool dimensions are 800mm in length and 340mm in diameter. Tool magazine options include timing belt magazines with 45 or 60 positions for HSK-100 tools, chain magazines accommodating up to 120 HSK-100 tools, and tower magazines supporting up to 440 HSK-100 tools.
Turning technology is integral to the machine concept and available as an option. Using specially developed assemblies and software modules, both classic and complex turning operations can be performed with machining centre productivity levels. Unlike turning centres, the machine benefits from versatile setup options, including vertical workpiece clamping and mid-operation clamping via the pallet changer.
For optimal operator experience, the Heckert X80 has Starrag’s ergonomic 24in touchscreen HMI paired with a powerful Siemens Sinumerik One control. The touch-sensitive display responds to gloves and features a scratch-resistant, easy-to-clean surface. Operators can access PDF construction plans and sequence sketches while maintaining visibility in the workspace through an integrated camera. New hardware and rapid sensor technology enhance automation capabilities via extended 13-channel clamping hydraulics and optimised standard interfaces for pallet storage systems and robot cells.
Comprehensive automation solutionsEfficient chip management employs a thermo-symmetric design and steep-angled fixed plates, enhanced by an internal coolant supply operating at pressures of up to 80-bar. This setup ensures effective cooling and chip evacuation, with an additional flushing capability of up to 280 litres per min for applications that generate a high volume of chips. The Heckert X80 integrates with Starrag's comprehensive automation solutions, including Fastems FPT round pallet store systems, linear storage systems, and robotic cells, catering to production requirements from small to large batch sizes.
The new Heckert X80 uses the proven four-axis Heckert H-series machine envelope. Instead of the NC rotary table from the H-series, X-series models feature a robust rotary/tilt table developed and manufactured in-house at Starrag’s Chemnitz plant. The tilting unit incorporates two equally sized bearings and a thermally stable design, enabling five-sided, highly dynamic machining of complex components. Ensuring pallet compatibility across the new Heckert X80, smaller X70, and larger X90 models was essential for developers. Pallets are interchangeable with Heckert H series machines and older Heckert HEC 630/800 X5 machines.
The Heckert X80 is now available as part of Starrag’s expanded X-series line of five-axis machining centres. Manufacturers can view the new Heckert X70 at
EMO Hannover 2025, taking place 22 to 26 September. The Heckert X-series includes the smaller Heckert X50 and the larger Heckert X80 and X90 variants, offering enhanced work envelopes and capacity.