PUMA SMX Series

The milling and turning capabilities of the PUMA SMX series allow for fast and precise machining of workpieces in one set-up. The machines in this multi-tasking turning center family are very rigid and employ thermal compensation features that provide constant exceptional performance.

PUMA SMX2600ST: 5-Axis Mill-Turn Center for Complex, One-Setup Machining

The DN Solutions PUMA SMX2600ST is a 5-axis mill-turn center built around dual opposed spindles, a 12,000 RPM B-axis milling spindle, and a 12-station lower turret, letting a shop finish complex parts in one setup instead of moving them between machines. It handles workpieces up to 26 in. (660 mm) in turning diameter and 60.63 in. (1,540 mm) in length, with 4,000 RPM, 35 hp opposed spindles for heavy stock removal on both sides of the part. Ellison Technologies, the largest DN Solutions distributor in North America, supplies the SMX2600ST as one of several multi-tasking mill-turn centers within its broader line of turning centers for shops in aerospace, medical, and energy production.

Aerospace and Structural Components

Aerospace shops use the PUMA SMX2600ST to machine turbine housings, structural brackets, and shafts that need milling, drilling, and turning done without repositioning the part. The B-axis milling spindle tilts across a 240-degree range (plus or minus 120 degrees), so a single setup can reach angled features that would otherwise need a second fixture. With X1-axis positioning accuracy of 0.013 mm (0.00051 in.) and repeatability of 0.008 mm (0.00032 in.), the machine holds the tolerances aerospace prints call for on titanium and nickel-alloy parts. Ellison supports this work through its spindle rebuild program across its DN Solutions territory for aerospace manufacturers.

Medical Implant and Device Manufacturing

Medical device manufacturers use the SMX2600ST's dual opposed spindles and lower turret to finish small, high-precision parts, such as orthopedic implants and surgical instrument components, front and back, in one cycle. The 4,000 RPM, 35 hp opposed spindles and 3.187 in. (81 mm) bar capacity support bar-fed production of fasteners and small turned components at volume. Paired with the FANUC 31i-B5 control's CUFOS simulation software, shops can validate a program offline before cutting titanium or cobalt-chrome stock, cutting down scrap on expensive medical-grade material. Ellison works with medical device manufacturers across its territory on this kind of multitasking work.

Energy and Heavy Industry

Energy sector manufacturers use the PUMA SMX2600ST's 26 in. (660 mm) turning diameter and 60.63 in. (1,540 mm) turning length to machine valve bodies, shafts, and other heavy components for oil and gas and power generation equipment. The left and right spindles each deliver 26 kW (35 hp) and roughly 725 Nm (534 ft-lb) of torque, enough for heavy interrupted cuts on forged and cast stock. A standard bar feed interface and part unloading system support longer unattended runs on high-volume energy components. Ellison serves energy and oil and gas manufacturers across its DN Solutions territory with machines built for heavy-duty, single-setup work.

Dual Spindles and B-Axis Milling for Ultimate Flexibility

At the heart of the SMX2600ST is a powerful 12,000 rpm milling spindle with HSK-T63 taper and 22 kW (29.5 hp) output, capable of interpolated 5-axis machining using the ±120° B-axis rotation. The main spindle delivers 4,000 rpm with a 3.1" bar capacity and 35 hp cutting power, while the sub-spindle offers 4,000 rpm and 35 hp for high-speed part transfer and backworking. These systems work in tandem to enable complex machining strategies like pinch turning, multi-angle drilling, and simultaneous OD/ID operations—significantly reducing part cycle time and improving throughput.

Lower Turret for Simultaneous and Balanced Cutting

The 12-station lower turret brings an extra axis of productivity, enabling dual cutting paths with the upper head for operations like roughing and finishing in parallel. It supports live tools and is servo-driven for accurate positioning. This turret enhances part complexity handling and reduces idle time by allowing operations on both spindles concurrently. Ideal for operations like grooving, threading, or drilling on secondary surfaces, the lower turret makes the SMX2600ST an elite multitasking center with true parallel processing capability.

Thermal Stability, Structural Integrity, and Automation Ready

The SMX2600ST is built on a robust slant-bed Meehanite® casting with symmetric column structure, designed to resist thermal deformation and vibration during heavy cuts. Preloaded LM roller guideways and dual-anchored ball screws ensure rigidity and high-speed accuracy across all axes. The machine features integrated tool probing, disturbance torque monitoring, and thermal compensation systems to maximize uptime and tool life. With a standard 80-tool magazine (expandable to 120), high-pressure coolant options, and part catcher/robot interfaces, it's ready for full automation in high-mix, high-volume environments.

Smart Control and Operator-Friendly Interface

The machine is powered by the FANUC 31i-B5 control with 19″ iHMi touchscreen, delivering high-speed 5-axis processing and intuitive navigation. The standard CUFOS (Customized Flexible Operation Solution) suite includes digital twin simulation, in-process monitoring, and conversational cycle generation. With EZ Guide i onboard, operators can program turning, milling, and drilling cycles on the shop floor without writing G-code. These control enhancements reduce setup times and training curves, empowering shops to get the most from the SMX2600ST’s capabilities.

FAQ Section

Who is the SMX2600ST best suited for?

The PUMA SMX2600ST fits shops that need to finish complex, tight-tolerance parts in one setup instead of moving them between machines. It's a common fit for aerospace, medical, and energy manufacturers producing parts such as turbine components, orthopedic implants, and valve housings that require angled milling and turning on the same piece.

Can the SMX2600ST run lights-out or unattended?

Yes. The machine comes standard with a bar feed interface and automated part unloading system, and it includes disturbance torque detection and thermal growth compensation to protect the machine and part during unmanned runs. A robot interface is available as a factory option for longer unattended shifts.

What is the maximum turning diameter and bar capacity of the PUMA SMX2600ST?

The PUMA SMX2600ST has a maximum turning diameter of 26 in. (660 mm) over the carriage and a maximum bar capacity of 3.187 in. (81 mm) for bar-fed work. Maximum turning length is 60.63 in. (1,540 mm).

Does the B-axis head allow true 5-axis machining?

Yes. The milling spindle's B-axis tilts across a 240-degree range (plus or minus 120 degrees) and, combined with the FANUC 31i-B5 control's tool center point control, allows simultaneous 5-axis contouring in a single setup. That covers operations like angled hole drilling and multi-surface milling without a second fixture.

What software and control come standard with the PUMA SMX2600ST?

The PUMA SMX2600ST runs on a FANUC 31i-B5 dual-path control with the CUFOS platform, which includes collision protection and conversational programming through EZ Guide i. Operators can build turning, milling, and drilling cycles on the shop floor without writing G-code by hand.