Lymington-based Ajax Machine Tools (www.ajax-mach.co.uk) has launched a new range of Super Turn heavy-duty flat-bed CNC lathes.

Still with the easy-to-use Fanuc Turnmate i touch-screen system, it offers a heavier construction and new design.

Features include: independent hand-wheels that are saddle-mounted for ease of operation, along with controls and an E Stop; a new guard that has been designed to allow better access for larger jobs; and removable rear guards and coolant tank for ease of cleaning, and better swarf management. There is also a choice of four-way or eight-station turrets.

Options include camlock or DIN spindles, and there is a wide range of high-quality chucks, steadies and accessories available. The Fanuc control can also be upgraded to Manual Guide i or Siemens 828D with Shopturn.

The range extends from 400mm swing on the AJST400 with 1,000mm between centres, 500mm swing on the AJST500 with 750, 1,250 or 2,000mm between centres and 600mm swing on the AJST600 with 750, 1,250 or 2,000mm between centres.

Spindle bore diameters range from 52 to 86mm.

Programming times are greatly reduced due to simple cycles that operators can understand quickly and easily, allowing them to make complicated parts in minutes. The control still has full ISO G Code programming capability for offline CAD/CAM operations that can be entered via RS232, USB or flash card systems.