The installation of a Hyundai Wia two-axis lathe has not only cut cycle times by 18% on an existing component at DJT Engineering (Midlands) but also — by releasing capacity — enabled the Walsall-based company to double its output of components derived from bar. In addition, the new machine has allowed DJT to quote for new work.

Managing director Lee Baker says: “If I win the new contract, the machine will pay for itself in no time.”

Supplied by TW Ward CNC Machinery (www.wardcnc.com), the KIT450 was purchased “because I could see that it would produce immediate benefits on the fairly straightforward alloy steel part”.

Produced from 45mm bar, the component requires a 23mm through-hole before parting off. “With just two tools involved, I wanted a ‘simple’ and cost-effective two-axis machine that I could dedicate to this component, and it appeared that Ward CNC was the only company that could supply one.

“With its impressive spindle speeds and rapids — 6,000rev/min and 36m/min in both X and Z — the KIT450 immediately cut cycle times to such an extent that I was able to release the former machine for other parts. This has allowed me to process up to 12 tonnes of bar a month, compared to six before.”