Multi-Axis Horizontal Lathes

When shops talk about upgrading their turning capability, they are usually trying to solve a few real problems: too many setups, long changeovers, and parts that keep creeping out of tolerance. SMEC multi-axis horizontal lathes are built with that day to day reality in mind. With live tooling, Y axis travel, and C axis spindle control, a single machine can turn, mill, drill, and tap most features without taking the part out of the chuck. That means fewer fixtures to manage and much better alignment between diameters, holes, and milled flats. Whether you are running short batches of shaft work or repeat production on flanges and housings, a multi-axis horizontal lathe can help you keep more work in house instead of sending secondary operations to another department.

SMEC designs these CNC turning centers to feel familiar to machinists while still offering the advantages of multi tasking lathes. Turrets are configured for a full mix of static and live tools, high torque spindles support aggressive metal removal, and the horizontal layout helps with chip control when cutting tougher alloys. Many shops also tie in bar feeders, parts catchers, or simple automation so longer runs can be handled with less operator intervention. The end result is not just faster cycle times, but a process that is easier to repeat and refine as your work changes over time.