A range of strong, reliable and cost-effective production lathes feature a CNC that is is straightforward to program by operator interface or direct on line programming.
Ajax has launched two new ranges of European-manufactured lathes, the manual/CNC Apollo QT series and the Ajax Apollo PD production lathes. The Ajax Apollo PD series is built around robust and reliable European-built lathes combined with the latest Fanuc 21i CNC control, giving a range of strong, reliable and cost-effective production lathes. The powerful Fanuc 21i control is straightforward to program by operator interface or direct on line programming, the operator interface gives advanced machining, tool management and calculation of complex shapes and functions.

Ajax are currently offering the option of a full production package, this includes hollow spindle hydraulic chuck, hydraulic tailstock and an 8 station automatic turret.

Special introductory prices for this equipment range from GBP 3650 to GBP 4950, depending on the size of machine.

With the above package coupled to a lathe swinging 400mm, and 1000mm between centres, with Fanuc 21i control, Fanuc drives and motors, the complete production package is less than GBP 29,000.

The Ajax Apollo QT manual/CNC lathes feature Fanuc's QuickTurn control and Fanuc drives and motors.

The range of Ajax QTs has been developed as a replacement for the conventional centre lathe.

An experienced lathe operator would quickly adapt and start machining immediately when combining his knowledge with the Fanuc QuickTurn technology.

The Fanuc QuickTurn control provides and easy-to-understand, operator-friendly interface, leading the operator through standard turning functions using the touch screen display.

Manual operation is by two electronic hand wheels, with varying feed rates and using the display as a simple 2-axis DRO.

Complex shapes and operations can be programmed using a selection of canned cycles that are accessed through the touch screen display.

Up to 15 operations can be stored in the control.

These operations cover: rough turning and facing cycles; thread cutting cycles, including taper threads; radius and chamfer cycles; grooving cycles and drilling cycles.

Prices range from GBP 12,950 for a machine of 335mm swing, 750mm between centres, to GBP 28,950 for a machine of 620mm swing, 155mm diameter spindle bore and 3000mm between centres.

The range offers the benefit of a lathe with and operator-friendly control for the same price as a fully-equipped conventional centre lathe.