APEC SK Series – 5-Axis High Speed Gantry Machining Centers

The APEC SK Series 5-Axis High Speed Gantry Machining Centers are engineered for high-speed, high-precision machining of aerospace aluminum alloy structures. Featuring APEC’s U-shape gantry structure, linear motor drives, and the industry’s lowest gravity center, the SK Series provides outstanding rigidity, vibration control, and stability in a compact, space-saving footprint. With its ability to achieve ultra-fine surface finishes on thin-walled parts, the SK Series is built to meet the accuracy and speed demands of today’s aerospace manufacturers.

Compare the SK and SKM Series

Benefits for Aerospace Aluminum Machining

The SK Series helps Tier 1–3 aerospace suppliers produce complex aluminum components with superior accuracy, surface quality, and throughput. Its rigid U-shape gantry ensures stability during aggressive material removal, while linear motor drives deliver rapid positioning and smooth dynamics. Combined with advanced chip evacuation, the SK Series is designed for continuous high-volume aerospace production with minimal downtime.

  • Ultra-fine finishes reduce polishing and rework on aluminum parts
  • U-shape gantry provides rigidity and thermal stability for long machining cycles
  • 50% space savings with compact footprint for large aerospace components
  • Linear motor drives enable micron-level positioning accuracy
  • Dual chip evacuation systems ensure uninterrupted production

Key Features

  • U-shape gantry structure with 50% space savings and the world’s lowest gravity center
  • Linear motor drives on X/Y axes for high-speed feed rates and precision control
  • Z-axis with dual ball screws and twin servo motors for rigid, stable 5-axis machining
  • Specialized spindle optimized for high-speed aluminum cutting
  • Automatic head exchange system for multi-angle machining in confined spaces
  • Crossbeam flushing with high-pressure nozzles plus dual-chip evacuation with large-capacity tank
  • Automatic roof cover and enclosure for a clean, safe, and efficient work environment

Ideal Cutting Applications

  • Aerospace aluminum alloy components: wing ribs, stringers, spars, fuselage panels, bulkheads, frames, landing gear panels
  • Thin-walled aerospace structures requiring chatter-free machining and ultra-fine finishes
  • Complex contoured surfaces requiring simultaneous 5-axis machining
  • High-volume aerospace production requiring continuous chip evacuation and reliability

Specifications

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Item / Model
SK2530/40/50/60/80 Request a Quote
SK3020/40/50/60/80 Request a Quote

X-Axis

118.11″/157.48″/196.85″/236.22″

78.74″/157.48″/196.85″/236.22″

Y-Axis

98.43″

118.11″

Z-Axis

39.37″

39.37″

Table Length

118.11″/157.48″/196.85″/236.22″/314.96″

78.74″/157.48″/196.85″/236.22″

Table Width

787.4″

118.11″/98.43″/98.43″/98.43″/98.43″

Max Table Load

17.64 lbs./ft²

17.64 lbs./ft²

Rapid Traverse

XY=196.85 ft/min

XY=196.85 ft/min

X/Y/Z Axis Acceleration

16.4 ft/sec²

16.4 ft/sec²

Spindle Taper

HSK-63A

HSK-63A

Spindle Speed

24,000 RPM

24,000 RPM

Spindle Power (S1/S6)

80.52/100.65 HP

80.52/100.65 HP

Spindle Torque (S1/S6)

35.39/44.25 ft. lbs.

35.39/44.25 ft. lbs.

Recommended 2-Axis Head

Fork Type Milling Head

Fork Type Milling Head

Swivel/Rotation Torque

B=879.77/1,456.16 ft. lbs. C=774.08/1,272.36 ft. lbs.

B=879.77/1,456.16 ft. lbs. C=774.08/1,272.36 ft. lbs.

Swivel/Rotation Speed

B=C=30(cont)/60(max) RPM

B=C=30(cont)/60(max) RPM

Swivel/Rotation Angle

B=±120° C=±360°

B=±120° C=±360°

Clamping Torque

B=4,000 ft. lbs. C=4,000 ft. lbs.

B=4,000 ft. lbs. C=4,000 ft. lbs.

Tool Shank

30T pieces

30T pieces

Max Tool Length

11.81″

11.81″

Max Tool Diameter with Adjacent Tool

Ø3.94″

Ø3.94″

Max Tool Diameter without Adjacent Tool

Ø5.12″

Ø5.12″

Weight

154,320 -286,600 lbs.

154,320 -286,600 lbs.

Category

APEC SK Series

APEC SKM Series

Core Function

High-speed 5-axis gantry machining center optimized for aerospace aluminum structural parts

Multi-purpose 5-axis gantry machining center designed for mold & die machining with secondary aerospace capability

Structural Design

U-shape gantry structure with world’s lowest gravity center for maximum stability

Box-in-box symmetrical design with honeycomb ram for extreme rigidity, vibration damping, and thermal stability

Best For

Aerospace aluminum alloys, thin-wall structures, high-speed contouring

Mold & die machining (steel, graphite, precision dies) plus aerospace aluminum alloy components

Spindle

High-speed spindle (optimized for aluminum cutting, up to 24,000 rpm)

High-speed spindle options with enhanced rigidity and stability for long-cycle mold cutting

Table Design

Large-format table with dual-drive support for long aerospace components

Same concept, engineered to handle both aerospace parts and heavy mold bases

Automation

Compatible with pallet changers, probing, and adaptive control for aerospace work

Same automation options, but optimized for extended mold machining cycles

Highlight Advantage

Accuracy at speed — aerospace machining with ultra-fine finishes and stability

Versatility — equally capable in mold & die and aerospace aluminum machining