Hardinge CNC Machines
What Makes Hardinge Lathes Stand Out?
Delivering consistent precision measured in millionths of an inch—something others promised but were unable to accomplish—was the foundation of Hardinge's reputation. With tolerances as low as ±0.000050" straight out of the factory, the legendary Hardinge HLV-H super precision toolroom lathe became the standard by which all other precision lathes are evaluated. This degree of accuracy isn't marketing speak; rather, it's the outcome of preloaded spindle bearings, hardened and ground bedways, and manufacturing standards that place a premium on accuracy.
130 Years of manufacturing excellence
Every Hardinge machine uses design components that have been developed over the past 130 years of superior manufacturing. The HLV-H eliminates radial and end play while providing remarkable rigidity thanks to Hardinge's patented ball bearing spindle construction with tapered nose design. The precision threading capabilities support both inch (11-108 TPI) and metric (0.275-2.7mm) thread standards, and the variable spindle speeds range from 125 to 3,000 RPM offer the versatility to handle anything from aggressive roughing cuts to delicate finishing operations.
Hardinge Lathe Product Lines
HLV-H Super Precision Toolroom Lathe
The ultimate manual precision lathe design is the Hardinge HLV-H. The HLV-H can handle the most demanding toolroom applications thanks to its 5C collet-ready spindle, 18" center spacing, and 11" swing over bed. Outstanding control is offered by the independently powered carriage and cross slide as well as the infinitely variable speed drive. For shops needing flexibility, the Hardinge HLV-H lathes offer the best of both worlds with their retrofitted CNC capabilities and complete manual control.
Hardinge CNC Turning Centers
The CNC lathe line from Hardinge combines contemporary automation with the precision for which the brand is known. While models such as the CHNC and Super Precision CNC lathes bring Hardinge accuracy to automated turning operations, the Conquest series offers gang-tool and turret configurations for production flexibility.
Popular Models:
- Conquest GT-27SP: Super precision gang tool configuration with GE Fanuc control
- Conquest H51 & GS-51: Heavy-duty production with 18" swing and multi-axis capability
- Elite Series: High-performance turning with bar capacity up to 2", ideal for production environments
- CHNC Series: Compact precision CNC lathes for small-to-medium diameter work
Engine Lathes & Manual Turning Equipment
In addition to the renowned HLV-H, Hardinge produces a variety of precision toolroom tools for demanding tasks. These manual lathes are used in prototype departments, tool and die shops, and research facilities where accuracy and operator control are critical.
Enhance Functionality with Available Options
A wide variety of accessories can be added to Hardinge machines to increase their functionality. Step chucks and jaw chucks can handle work with a greater diameter, while 5C collet systems offer quick-change workholding for production runs. CNC retrofit kits convert Hardinge HLV-H toolroom lathes into hybrid manual/CNC machines, while digital readouts (DRO) provide more contemporary position feedback for older manual lathes. These precision machines' versatility is increased by the addition of live centers, steady rests, follow rests, and taper attachments. Coolant systems, quick-change tool posts, and collet closers increase output without sacrificing the precision for which Hardinge is renowned.
Hardinge vs. Other Precision Lathe Manufacturers
Even in the used equipment market, Hardinge lathes are priced higher than those of other precision toolroom manufacturers like Sharp, Acra, and others because they produce measurable improvements in performance. The details show the difference: On well-maintained machines, Hardinge spindle runout specifications frequently measure less than 0.00005" TIR, an order of magnitude better than competitors. Hardinge creates legendary precision lathes, while other manufacturers produce good ones. A well-maintained 40-year-old Hardinge HLV-H will frequently perform better than a brand-new lathe from a lower-quality manufacturer. This durability and precision retention account for the high resale value of Hardinge equipment and the continued high demand for used Hardinge lathes across all industries that demand perfect accuracy.Why Buy a Used Hardinge from Premier Equipment?
When you buy used Hardinge equipment from Premier Equipment, you can get legendary precision for 40–60% less than new. Before any Hardinge lathe is delivered to your shop floor, our skilled technicians perform a comprehensive inspection to make sure it satisfies our quality standards. Our staff can help you choose the ideal Hardinge machine, whether it's a CNC turning center for production work or a vintage HLV-H toolroom lathe for your tool room, thanks to our daily updated inventory and extensive knowledge of the brand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Hardinge HLV-H so special compared to other toolroom lathes?
The Hardinge HLV-H's reputation was built on its unwavering standards for manufacturing and design. Over decades of use, the precision is maintained by the hardened and ground bedways, and any play that could jeopardize accuracy is eliminated by the preloaded spindle bearing configuration. When combined with variable speed control and outstanding threading capabilities, the HLV-H consistently produces sub-thousandth precision that is unmatched by other toolroom lathes. Compared to new lathes from other manufacturers, many shops believe that a used Hardinge HLV-H is a better investment.
Can I retrofit a manual Hardinge HLV-H with CNC controls?
Yes, a number of businesses provide CNC retrofit packages made especially for the Hardinge HLV-H. While maintaining complete manual operation capability, these retrofits usually include servo motors, precision ball screw assemblies, and contemporary PC-based CNC controls. This hybrid approach combines the best features of automated and manual turning in a single machine, allowing you to run production quantities under CNC control while performing basic setup work by hand.
How do I find used Hardinge lathes for sale?
From contemporary CNC turning centers to vintage HLV-H precision toolroom lathes, we have it all in stock. Every machine is carefully inspected, and our staff can assist in matching the equipment in our listing to your unique needs, whether they involve a specific spindle configuration, swing capacity, or tooling package.
Ready to Experience Hardinge Precision?
Our staff can assist you in locating the ideal lathe for your precision turning applications since we're aware of what makes Hardinge equipment so great. We have the know-how to help you choose equipment that offers the precision and dependability Hardinge is known for, whether you're outfitting a tool room with a legendary HLV-H or adding CNC turning capability with a Conquest series machine. Get in touch with us right now to talk about the Hardinge equipment that is for sale and introduce renowned accuracy to your shop!Resources
Forkardt Hardinge
- Address: 1 Hardinge Drive, Elmira, NY 14903
- Phone: 833-791-9681
- Email: info@forkardthardinge.com
- Website: https://forkardthardinge.com/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/forkardthardingeamericas/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ForkardtHardinge/
- X: https://x.com/FHWorkholding
Hardinge Vertical Machining Centers
| Model | X Travel (in) | Y Travel (in) | Z Travel (in) | Optional Enhancements (typical) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VMC 600 II | 23.62 | 20.07 | 20.07 | 4th-axis rotary table, 20–24 tool ATC, high-pressure coolant, chip conveyor, probing, control upgrades. |
| Bridgeport XR1000 | 40 | 24 | 24 | 12K spindle, 30-tool side-mount ATC, through-spindle coolant, 4th-axis interface, probing, chip conveyor. |
| VMC 1500 II | 64 | 28 | 28 | Large 64" X travel, 4th-axis rotary, extended table load, coolant-thru spindle, probing, chip conveyor. |
Hardinge Turning Centers – Multitasking (Y-Axis / Live Tooling)
| Model | X Travel (in) | Y Travel (in) | Z Travel (in) | Optional Enhancements (typical) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TALENT 42BT MYT | 7.08 | 1.65 | 25.67 | C-axis, Y-axis, live tooling, bar feeder, parts catcher, chip conveyor, tool presetter, high-pressure coolant. |
| TALENT 51 MSY | 7.08 | 1.65 | 25.67 | Larger bar capacity, Y-axis + C-axis, live tooling turret, 12' bar feeder, chip conveyor, high-pressure coolant, upgraded Fanuc control. |
| CONQUEST H51 MSY SP | 20 | 7 | 15 | Super-precision package, glass scales, through-tool coolant, bar-feed interface, chip conveyor, crash-protection control, parts catcher, probing. |
Hardinge Turning Centers – 2-Axis TALENT Series
| Model | X Travel (in) | Y Travel (in) | Z Travel (in) | Optional Enhancements (typical) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TALENT 8/52 | 9.0 | — | 16.0 | 8" chuck, tailstock, bar-feed interface, parts catcher, chip conveyor, coolant system, hydraulic chuck upgrades. |
Hardinge Turning Centers – Conquest / Elite / Gang-Tool
| Model | X Travel (in) | Y Travel (in) | Z Travel (in) | Optional Enhancements (typical) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CONQUEST CS-51 | 6.75 | — | 22.65 | 12-station turret, bar feeder, parts catcher, chip conveyor, high-pressure coolant, spindle liner packages. |
| CONQUEST GT-SP (Gang Tool) | 2.654 | — | 11.968 | 5C collet spindle, gang-tool plate, bar feeder, parts catcher, sub-spindle option on some variants, mist collection. |
| ELITE 51-MS | 5.74 | — | 15.98 | 18" swing, 2" bar, 12-station turret, bar feeder, chip conveyor, parts catcher, high-pressure coolant, upgraded Fanuc control. |