With C-axis and 12 driven tools, a 3-axis slant bed CNC lathe offers users a level of single set-up turn/mill/drill capability that is unparalleled on a cost-to-performance basis.

When an established supplier of precision machined parts and assemblies needed a new CNC lathe with C-axis and driven tooling to meet extra workload, a review of available machines concluded with the acquisition of a Takisawa Taiwan EX-310 from Ward CNC of Sheffield (www.wardcnc.com). C Rice Engineering has been established for over 30 years, and today the 16-employee company operates from 10,000 ft2 premises in Stockport, UK, serving a wide range of industries including the space, compressor, overhead crane, valve, pharmaceutical, mining and diesel engine sectors. 'Fortunately we are enjoying a period of strong orders,' said managing director Chris Rice.

'However, with this comes increased pressure on workload - so much so that the only option for us was to consider a new turning centre.' Having produced a shortlist of five CNC lathes, the company soon focused its attention on the Takisawa Taiwan EX-310.

'A number of people had recommended the machine to us, which is always a good sign,' he said.

'Also, when we discovered the immediate availability of the machine from Ward CNC, the deal was done and dusted.' With C-axis and 12 driven tools, the EX-310 three-axis slant bed CNC lathe offers users a level of single set-up turn/mill/drill capability that is unparalleled on a cost-to-performance basis.

Swing over the bed is 495mm, between centres distance is 845mm and the maximum turning diameter and length is 350mm and 710mm, respectively.

The 75 mm bar capacity machine has rapids of 20/24 m/min and a spindle speed up to 3,500 rev/min from the Fanuc 15/22kW oil-cooled built-in motor providing exceptional performance for turning and C axis operations.

Driven tools speeds are 40-4,000 rev/min.

Auto tool setting arm, parts catcher and swarf conveyor are standard, and the use of the optional auto toolsetter, bar feed and robot interface systems can significantly enhance the machine's capability for the unmanned production of complex parts.

Fanuc 21iT CNC incorporating the user-friendly Manual Guide i programming functionality is standard.

Installed by C Rice Engineering in June, the machine has been busy producing a range of precision turned parts with milled features and cross-holes - hence the requirement for driven tooling.

'Our quality and on-time delivery helps set us apart from our competitors,' added Rice.

'However, we cannot maintain our high standards without considered investment in the latest technology.'