What to Look for When Buying a Used Akira Seiki
Akira Seiki machines are built for production environments with high-quality castings and precision components. Here is what to inspect on used units.
On vertical machining centers, check the spindle, ways, and ATC. Measure spindle runout and test across the full RPM range. On linear guide models, verify smooth motion without play. On box way models, check for wear and verify way lube function. Cycle the ATC through every pocket. Run a test cut and measure dimensional accuracy.
On CNC lathes, verify spindle, turret, and tailstock. Measure spindle runout at the chuck face. Index the turret through all stations and confirm repeatable positioning. On live tooling models, test each driven station. Check ballscrew backlash on both axes. On sub-spindle models, verify part handoff. Inspect chuck, jaws, and hydraulic clamping for consistent grip.
On drill-tap and production centers, test speed and repeatability. Run rapid traverse tests and verify published speed ratings. Cycle the ATC at full speed. On APC-equipped models, verify pallet changer indexing and clamping. Check the BT30 spindle for runout.
Confirm the CNC control platform. Akira Seiki machines use Fanuc (0i-MF, 0i-TF), Mitsubishi (M80, 520M, 560M), or Heidenhain controls depending on model and market. Matching the control to your shop's existing expertise reduces training time and programming overhead.
Vertical Machining Centers
Performa V Series
The Performa V2.5, V3, V4, V5, V5A, and V7 cover X-axis travels from 25 inches through 51 inches with BT40 or CAT40 spindles, 8,000 to 14,000 RPM, and 20 to 42 horsepower. These machines use Meehanite castings with linear guides on the X and Y axes and box ways on the Z axis for the best combination of speed and rigidity. ATC capacities range from 20 to 28 tools. The Performa V4 and V5 are the most commonly traded models on the used market.
Performa SR Series & SV Series
The Performa SR2 and SR3 are compact VMCs with 21 to 30-inch X-axis travel, designed for smaller workpieces and shops with limited floor space. The SV600 and SV800 provide additional vertical machining options. XP variants across all VMC lines add enhanced spindle speed, chilled spindles, and through-spindle coolant for higher-performance applications.
CNC Turning Centers
The SL15, SL20, SL25, and SL35 cover chuck sizes from 6 inches through 10 inches with turning lengths up to 1,500 mm. All lathes feature Meehanite castings, precision ground guides, and high-power spindle motors with speeds up to 6,000 RPM. Live tooling with C-axis is available for mill-turn capability. Sub-spindle configurations enable complete part processing in one cycle. The SL20 is the most popular model in the used market. Fanuc 0i-TF controls are standard.
Drill-Tap & Production Centers
The PC400, PC500, and PC700 are high-speed BT30 drill-tap centers with 15,000 RPM spindles, rapid traverse rates up to 2,400 IPM, and fast tool change times built for high-volume production. The RMV500 and RMV500APC add larger work envelopes and built-in automatic pallet changers for reduced non-cutting time. RMV-RT variants support rotary table integration for multi-face machining.
Horizontal Machining Centers
Akira Seiki HMC series machines feature built-in pallet changers with 350 to 720 mm pallet sizes, BT40 spindles, and high-speed rapids for production environments. These machines deliver the chip evacuation and multi-face access advantages of horizontal machining at Akira Seiki's performance-to-value positioning.
How to Sell Your Used Akira Seiki
Akira Seiki machines hold solid resale value thanks to the brand's reputation for high performance at competitive cost, quality Japanese components, and a growing global installed base. Performa VMCs and SL lathes are in consistent demand.
Resell CNC buys used Akira Seiki machines, every model, every generation, nationwide.
- Contact us — call (844) 478-8181 or email sales@resellcnc.com.
- Free appraisal within 24 hours, no obligation.
- Accept the offer — we handle rigging, transport, and logistics.
Frequently Asked Questions About Used Akira Seiki Machines
Are used Akira Seiki machines reliable?
Yes. Akira Seiki has built CNC machine tools since 1985 and exports to over 60 countries. All machines use Meehanite castings, Japanese THK linear guides, and precision double-nutted ballscrews. The company's ISO 9001:2015 certified quality system ensures consistent build quality. Many Akira Seiki VMCs and lathes deliver productive service for 10 to 15 years or more.
What CNC controls do Akira Seiki machines use?
Akira Seiki machines are available with Fanuc (0i-MF for mills, 0i-TF for lathes), Mitsubishi (M80, 520M, 560M), or Heidenhain controls depending on model and configuration. Fanuc and Mitsubishi are the most common on the North American used market. Matching the control to your shop's existing platform is important for productivity.
Where are Akira Seiki machines manufactured?
All Akira Seiki machines are manufactured at the company's consolidated factory complex in the Taichung Industrial Park, Taiwan. The company was founded in 1985 with operations starting in the United States and established its production factory in Taiwan in 2005. Machines are sold and serviced in North America through an authorized dealer network.
What should I inspect before buying a used Akira Seiki?
On VMCs, check spindle runout, way condition (linear guides or box ways), ATC function, and axis accuracy. On lathes, verify spindle runout, turret indexing, and ballscrew backlash. On drill-tap centers, test rapid traverse speed and ATC cycle time. On all machines, verify the CNC control function and software version.
What Akira Seiki models hold their value best?
Performa V4 and V5 VMCs maintain strong demand as versatile production machines. SL20 and SL25 lathes hold value for their capability and compact footprint. RMV500APC production centers command premiums for their built-in pallet changer. Call (844) 478-8181 for current valuations.
What industries use Akira Seiki machines?
Akira Seiki machines serve general machining, automotive, aerospace, medical device, electronics, die and mold, and high-volume production environments. The drill-tap and RMV production centers are popular in automotive and electronics for aluminum and non-ferrous machining at high cycle rates.
Does Resell CNC offer financing on used Akira Seiki machines?
Yes. Resell CNC offers flexible financing options to help your business acquire the equipment it needs. Contact us at (844) 478-8181 to discuss terms.
How do I sell my used Akira Seiki?
Contact Resell CNC at (844) 478-8181 or sales@resellcnc.com. We buy all Akira Seiki products nationwide, from Performa VMCs and SL lathes through drill-tap centers and horizontal machining centers. Free appraisal within 24 hours.