The CHIRON Group develops systems designed to meet current market needs while anticipating future demands. One rapidly expanding focus area is high-speed micromachining, where precision, short cycle times, and tolerances in the micrometer range are essential. To serve this field, the company provides two specialized machines: the established Micro5 and the newly introduced Micro5 XL, which expands the capabilities to a wider spectrum of applications.
Both machines redefine standards in the manufacture of complex miniature components—especially in sectors such as medical technology, precision mechanics, and industries requiring maximum motion dynamics and accuracy. A defining feature is their exceptional 5:1 ratio between machine size and allowable workpiece volume. The Micro5 uses a compact 250 mm machine envelope to machine parts up to 50 mm, while the Micro5 XL offers a 600 mm structure to accommodate parts up to 120 mm. This design approach delivers a unique combination of minimal footprint and high-performance machining.
Whether producing medical implants, watch components, intricate jewelry, or miniature mechanical parts, the Micro5 has proven itself as a leading solution in its category. With a total weight of only 550 kg and requiring just a standard 230 V connection, the system is ready for immediate operation. Its compact size enables installation directly beside existing workflows—even at operator workstations. Despite its small dimensions, the Micro5 provides exceptional rigidity and maintains the precision required for extremely fine geometries and premium-quality outcomes.
Unveiled at EMO 2025, the Micro5 XL attracted significant interest across industries. Building on the Micro5 platform, this next-generation model offers increased travel paths, higher machining performance, and broader application versatility.
The Micro5 XL is designed for simultaneous 5-axis high-speed cutting of larger yet highly detailed components, such as orthopedic implants, bone plates, and larger watch housings. Occupying just 1.7 m² of floor space, it can process workpieces up to 120 mm. With BC-type 5-axis kinematics, spindle speeds of 40,000–50,000 rpm, and acceleration with jerk values up to 900 m/s³, the system achieves extremely fast machining while maintaining exceptional accuracy.
To support autonomous production and increase throughput, the Micro5 can be paired with the Variocell UNO automation module. This system can supply one or two Micro5 machines, handling both workpieces and tools. It stores up to ten pallets and completes tool changes in less than five seconds.
For the Micro5 XL, three automation strategies are available: pallet automation, robotic workpiece automation, or the new Variocell PICK&PLACE solution with linear handling. The system loads raw parts, removes finished components, and returns them to storage—all with the same intuitive operating concept across all machine variants. Systems can be installed side-by-side to form modular manufacturing cells, making it easy to scale output as demand increases.
