Precision CNC and Manual Lathes from Colchester – Engineered for Performance and Reliability
Lathes are among the oldest and most essential metal cutting machine tools, forming the backbone of modern manufacturing and precision engineering. At Colchester Machine Tool Solutions, we’ve been at the forefront of the metalworking industry for over 100 years, delivering market-leading CNC and manual turning machines that set the standard for precision, performance, and reliability.
Explore One of the Industry’s Most Extensive Turning Machine Ranges
Whether you’re seeking CNC Turning Centres, CNC/manual combination lathes, or manual centre lathes, Colchester offers one of the widest selections of high-quality turning machines to meet every production need. Our lathe solutions are trusted across multiple sectors, including:
- Education and apprentice training
- Tool rooms and prototyping
- Small batch part production
- Large-diameter and extra-long component manufacturing
- High-volume, automated production environments
Why Choose a Colchester or Harrison Lathe?
Our turning machines are engineered for accuracy, ease of use, and long-term dependability. Each machine is supported by a vast array of optional and ancillary equipment, enabling you to customise your lathe for the most complex and demanding applications.
Benefits of Partnering with Colchester:
- Expert Technical Guidance - Our experienced engineers take the time to understand your needs, offering tailored advice to ensure you select the right CNC lathe or manual lathe for your workshop or production line.
- Unrivalled British Quality - All of our machine tools undergo rigorous testing and quality control, guaranteeing exceptional performance, precision, and longevity—hallmarks of the Colchester and Harrison names.
- Complete After-Sales Support - We provide end-to-end support including machine installation, operator training, preventative maintenance, and ongoing technical assistance, ensuring your lathe continues to operate at peak efficiency.
Lathe Terminology Explained
Understanding key specifications is essential when selecting the right lathe for your application. Below are definitions of common turning machine terms to help you make an informed decision:
Distance Between Centres - The distance between centres refers to the maximum length of workpiece that can be mounted between the headstock and tailstock of the lathe. This specification determines the maximum turning length the lathe can accommodate.
Why it matters - A greater distance between centres allows for the machining of longer components, making it a critical measurement for industries producing shafts, rollers, or other elongated parts.
Swing Over Cross-Slide - Swing over cross-slide is the maximum diameter of workpiece that can rotate above the cross-slide without obstruction. It is typically less than the swing over bed due to the height of the cross-slide assembly.
Why it matters -This measurement is crucial when working with parts that require tool clearance or when facing operations are performed close to the cross-slide area.
Swing Over Bed - Swing over bed refers to the largest diameter of workpiece that can rotate freely above the lathe bed. It is one of the most commonly referenced specifications when comparing lathe capacities.
Why it matters - It determines the maximum size of workpiece that can be turned without interference from the bed, making it a key factor in selecting a lathe suitable for your component sizes.
Swing in Gap - Swing in gap is the maximum diameter of workpiece that can be turned within the removable gap section of the lathe bed, located near the headstock. This allows for turning larger diameters than would be possible over the standard bed.
Why it matters - This feature provides additional versatility, particularly for short, large-diameter components such as flywheels or pulleys.
Speak to Our Experts Today
Looking for a manual or CNC lathe that delivers results you can trust?
Explore our full range or contact our team today on +44 (0)1924 415 000 or email sales@colchester.co.uk.
