FAT, part of the Haco Group, is well established in its production of CNC lathes and special-purpose machine tools. Founded over 100 years ago and with its own foundry, comprehensive machine shop and sheet metal/paint sections,
the company produces flat-bed and slant-bed lathes from small servo-controlled teaching lathes to heavy-duty large-capacity models.

Moreover, the company’s experience in various sectors has given it the ability to design and manufacture special-purpose machines, including those for pipe drilling, train bumper machining and grinding rubber shafts.

In many cases, robotic loading, overhead gantries and bespoke loading equipment have been supplied as part of a turn-key solution.

FAT recently designed and manufactured a large multi-purpose lathe — an FTM 1000 x 7500 — for a customer in Australia; this machine is now in production.

Features include a milling head, a tool magazine with integrated automatic tool changer, a 360mm-diameter spindle bore, a special solution that allows the use of long boring bars, a sub-spindle and other elements designed to ensure efficient and precise machining of parts up to 7,500mm long and up to 1,000mm in diameter.

Another recent application elsewhere in the world saw the installation of a highly customised TUR PMN 710 x 4000. Designed for high levels of productivity, this turning centre is equipped with an automated system that loads workpieces through the large spindle-bore.

The 12-position tool turret accommodates driven tools and can undertake turning, milling and drilling operations; the machine is also equipped with a saddle-mounted pneumatic ‘follow rest’. There is also a high-speed milling unit that is installed on the back of the machine and has its own Z and X axes.

FAT/Haco is represented in the UK by Leader CNC Technologies Ltd, Nuneaton (www.leadercnc.co.uk).