The Litz HU-1000 series is a universal head 5-axis machining center designed for machining larger, heavier components in a single setup. The machine combines a torque motor-driven B-axis in the spindle head with a full 360-degree C-axis rotary table, allowing simultaneous five-axis interpolation and multi-sided machining without repositioning the workpiece.
The machine provides 1000 mm (39.4") of X-axis travel, 880 mm (34.6") of Y-axis travel, and 710 mm (28") of Z-axis travel. The rotary table measures 1000 mm (39") in diameter and supports workpiece loads up to 1500 kg (3,300 lbs), depending on configuration. This capacity supports machining of large housings, structural components, and prismatic parts that require multiple machining operations across several faces.
Axis Configuration and Motion Control
The B-axis is integrated into the spindle head and driven by a torque motor, providing direct drive positioning with high angular resolution. The axis travels from 0 to 180 degrees and supports simultaneous five-axis machining. Positioning accuracy is maintained through high-resolution feedback, with indexing capability to 0.001 degrees.
The C-axis rotary table provides full 360-degree rotation. The system supports both indexed positioning and continuous interpolation, depending on the machining operation and configuration selected.
Linear roller guideways are used on the X, Y, and Z axes to provide consistent motion under load. Linear scale feedback is available as an option on all axes to compensate for thermal growth and maintain positioning accuracy during extended machining cycles.
Work Envelope and Table Capacity
The combination of axis travel and table size allows the machine to accommodate larger workpieces while maintaining full access to multiple faces. The 1000 mm table diameter and high load capacity support machining of components that exceed the practical limits of smaller five-axis platforms.
Maximum workpiece height is 500 mm in standard configuration and can be extended to 1000 mm when equipped with an automatic pallet changer system. This allows the machine to support both single-part setups and production workflows requiring repeatability and part staging.
Spindle Configurations
The HU-1000 platform is available with two primary spindle configurations, allowing the machine to be aligned with different machining requirements.
The HU-1000A configuration is equipped with a high-speed spindle rated at 18,000 rpm and 154 N·m of torque. This configuration supports machining across a range of materials, including aluminum, stainless steel, and tool steels, while maintaining the ability to perform both roughing and finishing operations within the same setup.
The HU-1000AT configuration operates at 12,000 rpm with 124 N·m of torque. This configuration supports stable material removal using larger tools and is suited for applications where cutting forces are higher and spindle speed is less critical.
C-Axis Function and Hybrid Capability
The C-axis rotary table supports continuous rotation, with performance characteristics that vary by configuration.
In the HU-1000A configuration, the C-axis is optimized for positioning accuracy and interpolation during five-axis milling operations. The table can be turned at 20RPM
In the HU-1000AT configuration, the C-axis supports higher rotational speeds up to 500RPM, enabling additional operations such as circular facing and light turning processes. This allows machining sequences to be consolidated within a single setup when part geometry permits.
Tool Capacity and Automation
The machine is equipped with a 40-tool automatic tool changer as standard, with expansion available to 60 tools. The tool changer is fully enclosed to maintain reliability in production environments.
Additional options include:
- Automatic pallet changer for continuous production
- Tool measurement systems
- Workpiece probing
- Coolant-through-spindle capability
These features support repeatable setups and unattended machining in production environments.
Application Range
The HU-1000 platform is configured in two variants with different spindle and C-axis characteristics. Each version aligns with specific materials, cutting strategies, and production requirements.
HU-1000A – High-Speed, Multi-Material 5-Axis Machining
The HU-1000A is configured with an 18,000 rpm spindle and higher torque output, allowing it to support both high-efficiency roughing and fine finishing across a range of materials. The C-axis is optimized for positioning accuracy and simultaneous five-axis interpolation.
This configuration is applied where part geometry, surface finish, and multi-sided access are the primary requirements.
Typical markets and applications include:
- Aerospace – structural components, brackets, bulkheads, and aluminum or titanium parts requiring simultaneous five-axis machining
- Mold and Die – cavity machining, contoured surfaces, and finishing operations requiring higher spindle speed and stable tool engagement
- General Precision Machining – prismatic parts in aluminum, stainless, and alloy steels requiring multiple operations in a single setup
- Medical and High-Accuracy Components – parts requiring consistent positioning, fine surface finishes, and repeatable toolpaths
This configuration supports shops running mixed material workflows where both cutting speed and surface quality are required within the same machine.
HU-1000AT – Torque-Focused Machining with Hybrid Capability
The HU-1000AT is configured with a 12,000 rpm spindle and a higher-speed C-axis, allowing the machine to support heavier cutting conditions and incorporate rotational operations at the table. The platform is suited for applications where material removal rates, part size, and process consolidation are priorities.
This configuration is applied where cutting forces are higher and additional operations can be completed on the rotary table.
Typical markets and applications include:
- Energy and Oil & Gas – valve bodies, pump housings, and pressure components in steel and alloy materials
- Heavy Equipment and Industrial Components – castings and forgings requiring multiple operations across several faces
- Power Generation – components requiring stable machining of larger diameters and heavier sections
- General Machining with Process Consolidation – parts requiring milling, circular facing, or light turning operations in a single setup
The higher-speed C-axis allows circular features and facing operations to be completed without transferring the part to a secondary machine, reducing handling and setup time.
Competitive Position
The HU-1000 series is positioned within the class of universal head five-axis machining centers with large work envelopes and production capability. Machines in this category include:
- DMG MORI DMU 85 monoBLOCK
- Mazak VARIAXIS i-800
- Okuma MU-8000V
- DN Solutions DVF 8000
- Hyundai WIA XF series
Within this group, the HU-1000 platform provides a combination of table size, load capacity, spindle options, and axis configuration that supports machining of larger components with fewer setups while maintaining compatibility with production workflows.