USED MAKINO A55 DELTA – 1997
The MAKINO A55 DELTA – 1997 is a heavy-duty horizontal machining center designed for high-volume production machining applications that require exceptional reliability, precision, and long-term durability. Built during a period when Makino established itself as one of the world’s leading machine tool manufacturers, the A55 Delta remains highly respected among manufacturers seeking a robust and dependable horizontal machining platform capable of handling demanding production environments.
The A55 Delta was engineered to maximize productivity through efficient pallet-changing technology, rigid machine construction, and proven spindle performance. Its horizontal spindle configuration provides superior chip evacuation compared to vertical machining centers, allowing chips to naturally fall away from the cutting area during machining. This improves cutting conditions, reduces heat buildup, extends tool life, and supports longer uninterrupted production cycles.
Constructed using a heavily reinforced cast iron machine base and column, the A55 Delta delivers excellent vibration dampening and structural rigidity. These characteristics allow the machine to maintain accuracy during heavy roughing operations while also achieving high-quality surface finishes during precision machining. The machine’s design emphasizes long-term reliability and consistent production performance, making it a valuable asset even decades after its original manufacture.
One of the key advantages of the A55 Delta is its automatic pallet-changing system. By allowing operators to load and unload parts while machining continues on a second pallet, the machine significantly reduces downtime and improves spindle utilization. This feature has made the A55 Delta particularly popular among manufacturers focused on maximizing throughput and minimizing labor costs.
The machine is commonly found in automotive manufacturing, industrial equipment production, hydraulic component machining, agricultural machinery manufacturing, energy sector applications, and precision contract machining operations. Typical workpieces include gearbox housings, transmission cases, hydraulic manifolds, valve bodies, pump housings, engine components, and other multi-sided production parts.
The 1997 MAKINO A55 DELTA continues to maintain a strong reputation in the used CNC marketplace because of its durability, machining capability, and ability to deliver reliable production performance at an affordable acquisition cost.
MAKINO A55 DELTA – AXIS
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Number of Axes | 4 Axis |
| Axis Configuration | X, Y, Z, B |
| Machine Type | Horizontal Machining Center |
| B-Axis Indexing | 1° Increment |
| Simultaneous Machining | 3+1 Axis |
| Guideway Type | Box Ways |
MAKINO A55 DELTA – AXIS TRAVELS / WORK ENVELOPE
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 24 in |
| Y-Axis Travel | 24 in |
| Z-Axis Travel | 26 in |
| B-Axis Rotation | 360° |
| Rapid Traverse Rate | 1,181 IPM |
| Positioning Accuracy | ±0.0002 in |
MAKINO A55 DELTA – CAPACITY / TABLE
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Pallet Size | 19.7 in x 19.7 in |
| Number of Pallets | 2 |
| Maximum Pallet Load | 1,100 lbs |
| Maximum Workpiece Diameter | 31.5 in |
| Maximum Workpiece Height | 39.4 in |
| Pallet Change System | Automatic |
MAKINO A55 DELTA – SPINDLE
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Maximum Spindle Speed | 10,000 RPM |
| Spindle Power | 25 HP |
| Spindle Taper | CAT 40 |
| Spindle Type | Gear Driven |
| Through-Spindle Coolant | Optional |
| Spindle Cooling | Standard |
MAKINO A55 DELTA – TOOL CHANGER
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Tool Capacity | 60 Tools |
| Optional Capacity | 120 Tools |
| Tool Change Type | Automatic |
| Tool-to-Tool Time | 1.5 Seconds |
| Tool Selection | Random Access |
| Tool Magazine Type | Chain Magazine |
MAKINO A55 DELTA – CONTROL SYSTEM
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| CNC Control | Fanuc 16M |
| Program Storage | CNC Memory |
| Ethernet Connectivity | Optional Retrofit |
| DNC Capability | Supported |
| Macro Programming | Supported |
| Networking | Limited |
MAKINO A55 DELTA – COOLANT / DUST / WATER MANAGEMENT
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Flood Coolant System | Standard |
| Through-Spindle Coolant | Optional |
| Chip Conveyor | Standard |
| Coolant Filtration | Standard |
| Automatic Chip Removal | Standard |
| Coolant Tank | Integrated |
MAKINO A55 DELTA – POWER REQUIREMENTS
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Electrical Supply | 220V – 480V |
| Phase | 3 Phase |
| Frequency | 50/60 Hz |
| Connected Load | Approx. 45 kVA |
MAKINO A55 DELTA – DIMENSIONS
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Machine Length | Approx. 180 in |
| Machine Width | Approx. 120 in |
| Machine Height | Approx. 115 in |
| Machine Weight | Approx. 24,000 lbs |
MAKINO A55 DELTA – GENERAL INFORMATION
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Makino |
| Model | A55 Delta |
| Year | 1997 |
| Machine Category | Horizontal Machining Center |
| Control System | Fanuc 16M |
| Construction | Heavy-Duty Cast Iron |
| Typical Materials | Steel, Cast Iron, Aluminum, Stainless Steel |
| Production Type | Medium to High-Volume Manufacturing |
INDUSTRIES THAT USE MAKINO A55 DELTA
- Automotive Manufacturing
- Industrial Machinery Manufacturing
- Agricultural Equipment Manufacturing
- Hydraulic Equipment Manufacturing
- Energy Equipment Manufacturing
- Construction Equipment Manufacturing
- Oil & Gas Equipment Manufacturing
- Defense Manufacturing
- Heavy Equipment Manufacturing
- Precision Contract Machining
TYPICAL PARTS MAKINO A55 DELTA CAN PRODUCE
- Transmission Housings
- Gearbox Cases
- Hydraulic Manifolds
- Pump Housings
- Valve Bodies
- Engine Components
- Agricultural Equipment Components
- Industrial Machinery Parts
- Construction Equipment Components
- Precision Castings
- Multi-Sided Production Parts
- Heavy-Duty Mechanical Components
WHY CHOOSE MAKINO A55 DELTA
The MAKINO A55 Delta remains a popular horizontal machining center because of its proven reliability, rigid construction, and ability to perform demanding machining operations over extended periods of time. Many manufacturers continue operating these machines successfully decades after installation because of Makino’s commitment to quality engineering and durable machine construction.
One of the machine’s greatest strengths is its ability to handle heavy cutting operations. The rigid cast iron structure and box-way construction provide excellent stability, allowing aggressive material removal while maintaining dimensional accuracy. This makes the machine particularly effective for machining cast iron, steel, and other difficult materials commonly used in industrial applications.
The dual-pallet system contributes significantly to productivity by reducing idle time between setups. Operators can prepare the next workpiece while machining continues on the active pallet, helping maximize spindle utilization and increase overall production output.
The gear-driven spindle provides strong low-end torque for heavy-duty machining applications while still offering sufficient speed for precision finishing operations. Combined with the machine’s robust mechanical design, this allows the A55 Delta to perform a wide range of machining tasks efficiently.
For manufacturers seeking a dependable horizontal machining center with a proven track record and excellent durability, the MAKINO A55 Delta remains a strong production platform.
WHY BUY USED MAKINO A55 DELTA
Purchasing a used MAKINO A55 Delta offers manufacturers access to premium machine tool construction at a significantly lower cost than purchasing a newer horizontal machining center. Because these machines were built for long service life, many continue operating productively decades after their original installation.
One of the biggest advantages is affordability. A used A55 Delta can often be acquired for a fraction of the cost of a newer horizontal machining center while still delivering excellent production capability. This makes it especially attractive for job shops, contract manufacturers, and companies expanding production capacity on a limited budget.
The machine’s robust construction also contributes to its value. Unlike many lighter-duty machines, the A55 Delta was engineered for continuous industrial use and heavy cutting operations. Properly maintained machines often remain highly productive and reliable even after many years of service.
Another advantage is the availability of replacement parts and service support. Fanuc controls remain widely supported, and many maintenance professionals are familiar with Makino’s horizontal machining center platforms. This helps reduce long-term ownership risk and simplifies maintenance planning.
Many used machines also include valuable options such as chip conveyors, through-spindle coolant systems, expanded tool magazines, probing systems, and additional tooling packages. Purchasing these features as part of a used machine package often provides significant cost savings.
For manufacturers seeking reliable production capability without the expense of new equipment, the MAKINO A55 Delta remains an excellent value.
HOW MUCH DOES A USED MAKINO A55 DELTA COST?
The market value of a used MAKINO A55 Delta depends on machine condition, maintenance history, spindle condition, tooling packages, installed options, and overall market demand. Despite its age, the machine continues to attract interest because of its reputation for durability and dependable performance.
Machines with documented maintenance records, healthy spindle performance, and good mechanical condition typically command higher prices. Buyers often place significant value on machines that have been maintained properly because they reduce the risk of unexpected repair costs.
Installed options such as through-spindle coolant, expanded tool capacity, probing systems, chip management upgrades, and tooling packages can also significantly influence pricing. These features improve productivity and reduce additional investment requirements after purchase.
Market demand from automotive suppliers, industrial equipment manufacturers, agricultural equipment producers, and contract machining facilities continues to support the value of reliable horizontal machining centers such as the A55 Delta.
Additional costs such as transportation, rigging, installation, electrical work, tooling, and facility preparation should also be considered when evaluating a purchase.
In today’s used CNC machinery market, a 1997 MAKINO A55 DELTA typically sells within a range of approximately $12,000 to $45,000, depending on machine condition, tooling inventory, maintenance history, spindle health, and installed options. Machines with documented service records and desirable options generally command prices toward the upper end of the range.
For manufacturers seeking a durable, proven, and cost-effective horizontal machining center, the MAKINO A55 Delta continues to represent an outstanding value in the used CNC marketplace.
