Combination' or 'half-NC' lathes combine conventional turning, electronic cycle turning and full CNC turning in one machine and the user needs no CNC training to use electronic turning cycles.

Centre lathe turning has progressed at an impressive rate since the conception of electronics, driving axis and spindles, and computer driven programming. The Ajax Evolution range of machines, combines all the virtues of conventional turning, electronic cycle turning and full CNC turning all in one machine. The Ajax Evolution machines can be used as a manual lathe by using the electronic handwheels and axis joy stick, the control is used as a simple DRO measuring system.

For the 'one-offs' and small batch production the Ajax Evolution can be programmed, using the flexible electronic turning cycles, its quick, its convenient and you do not have to be CNC trained to use the electronic cycles.

You can produce tapers, radii, grooving, multi point profiles and screwcutting by answering simple questions direct from the Fanuc screen.

These electronic cycles can then be linked together to give a complete electronic programme.

For complicated shapes and batch production, full ISO programming on the Fanuc Oi Turn Mate control is possible.

The Ajax Evolution machines include fully enclosed guarding, meeting CE regulations, automatic four-way indexing toolpost, automatic speed range change and new Fanuc touch screen control and monitor on sliding pendant.

Machine programs can be up and downloaded through the RS232 port or saved directly to the PMCIA card.

The range starts at 165mm centre height to 325mm centre height, with bed lengths varying from 750mm to 5000mm, spindle speeds vary for sizes of machines but all have CSS fitted as standard.

Axis and spindle drives are all Fanuc to give reliability and longevity of service.

* Prices - for example - Evolution 200 x 1000mm BC is GBP 23,500.00 + carriage + VAT and Evolution 260 x 1500mm BC is GBP 28,650.00 + carriage + VAT.