The vital statistic of the new XYZ ProTURN SLX 555 manual/CNC lathe is its large 104mm spindle bore. This, combined with a 560 mm swing over bed and a choice of 1000mm, 1750mm or 3000mm between centres, guarantees maximum flexibility, whether machining one-off components or in small batch production mode. However, it is not just the physical dimensions and structural integrity of the ProTURN SLX 555 that prompts XYZ Machine Tools to describe its new lathe as ideal for such applications.

With just a few hours training even someone with little or no CNC experience will be confident of producing complex parts, because the unique 'traking' feature of the ProtoTRAK SLX control ensures that the operator is always in control.

This feature allows the operator to physically wind the hand wheel and so to move the machine through the program at a speed proportional to the speed at which the hand wheel is moving.

Stop or reverse the hand wheel and the machine will do the same.

This allows the operator to check the programmed toolpath before switching to computer control, thereby avoiding collisions and boosting operator confidence.

Standard machine equipment includes a 300mm diameter three-jaw chuck, Dickson quick change toolpost with six holders, air-assist 'floating' tailstock, interlocked chuck and swarf guards, and joystick control for rapid movement.

The ProtoTRAK SLX control contributes constant surface speed, tool tip radius compensation and a host of other features.