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Okuma MS-320H - Small Shop Efficiency Booster
The new Okuma MS‑320H Horizontal Machining Centre represents a strategic shift for small to mid-sized machine shops. Designed with high-mix, low-volume manufacturing in mind, this compact horizontal solution combines automation, precision, and uptime optimization within a remarkably small footprint.
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01 July 2025

Okuma MS-320H - Small Shop Efficiency Booster

The new Okuma MS‑320H Horizontal Machining Centre represents a strategic shift for small to mid-sized machine shops. Designed with high-mix, low-volume manufacturing in mind, this compact horizontal solution combines automation, precision, and uptime optimization within a remarkably small footprint.

Compact Automation, Designed for Production Flexibility

At just 1,580 × 3,120 mm, the MS‑320H offers a 56% space reduction compared to previous models. This is crucial for smaller shops constrained by limited floor space. The integrated loading hatch enables part loading and unloading in just 5.3 seconds, removing the need for constant operator presence and supporting lights-out operations. The system also supports mobile collaborative robots and features an 8-port hydraulic/pneumatic table, making it adaptable to changing production needs.

Precision, Chip Control, and Operational Stability

The MS‑320H features a high-speed No. 40 spindle operating at 15,000 rpm and delivering 25 kW peak power. This ensures robust cutting performance for a wide range of materials, especially small, high-tolerance parts. The machine’s vertical-table design and sloped stainless covers provide highly effective chip management, preventing downtime from chip accumulation.

Optional features like the “sludgeless tank” reduce maintenance requirements to a three-year cycle, freeing up staff resources. The Thermo-Friendly Concept compensates for thermal drift, preserving dimensional accuracy even in environments without climate control. The integrated ECO Suite Plus optimizes energy use through idle shutoffs and other smart resource controls.

A Strategic Asset for Small-Batch Production

For small shops handling short runs, frequent changeovers, or prototype jobs, the MS‑320H delivers speed and stability. It reduces lost motion via a rapid tool changer and achieves traverse speeds up to 60 m/min with 1 G acceleration—ideal for cycle-time-sensitive environments.

With optional AI diagnostics and on-axis monitoring, emerging faults are caught early, preventing unplanned downtime and safeguarding output consistency.

Competitive Comparison

When compared to other industry options, the MS‑320H stands out:

  • Sugino SC‑H30a: Compact and optimized for long unattended cycles with effective chip evacuation. However, it lacks the integrated automation flexibility found in the MS‑320H.

  • DMG MORI NHC-series: Offers premium automation and modular pallet systems. Ideal for scalability, but carries a significantly higher investment and larger footprint.

  • Haas EC-400: A value-driven solution with twin-pallet automation. While cost-effective, it doesn’t match the MS‑320H in chip handling sophistication or integrated automation capabilities.

Feature Okuma MS‑320H Sugino SC‑H30a DMG MORI NHC-series Haas EC-series
Footprint & compactness Very compact (56% smaller) Compact, rigid Larger, scalable Moderate
Automation readiness Integrated loader, cobot Interface ready Modular pallet/robot cells Twin-pallet + add-on robots
Chip management Vertical table, conveyor Center-trough Standard conveyors Standard conveyors
Uptime & autonomy Lights-out enabled Long unmanned cycles Fully automated lines Shift-based automation
Price tier Mid-to-high Mid-range Premium Entry–mid

Final Take

For small and mid-size shops that need flexible automation, chip-stable performance, and minimal operator dependency, the Okuma MS‑320H is a highly competitive solution. It bridges the gap between entry-level HMCs and premium automation platforms by delivering high-speed machining, lights-out potential, and sustainable operation in a compact, scalable package.

 

About MDCplus

Our key features are real-time machine monitoring for swift issue resolution, power consumption tracking to promote sustainability, computerized maintenance management to reduce downtime, and vibration diagnostics for predictive maintenance. MDCplus's solutions are tailored for diverse industries, including aerospace, automotive, precision machining, and heavy industry. By delivering actionable insights and fostering seamless integration, we empower manufacturers to boost Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE), reduce operational costs, and achieve sustainable growth along with future planning.

 

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