Johnford SL Series CNC Slant Bed Lathes
The Johnford SL Series encompasses a complete family of heavy-duty, high-precision CNC slant bed lathes designed for versatility, reliability, and superior machining accuracy. From the compact 30ยฐ SL-300 to the massive 45ยฐ torque-tube SL-800, every model is built from Meehanite cast iron to ensure exceptional rigidity and thermal stability.
The 30-degree SL-300โs design promotes rapid chip evacuation and faster cycle times for small-to-medium parts, while the larger 45-degree models employ a true torque-tube slant bed that channels cutting forces evenly through the base for unmatched rigidity under heavy cutting loads. Each SL machine features hand-scraped Turcite-B box ways, pre-tensioned double-nut ballscrews, and precision bearing spindle assemblies to deliver smooth motion, long-term alignment, and superior surface finishes.
Ideal for automotive, oil & energy, hydraulics, heavy equipment, and general manufacturing, the SL Series provides the power, stability, and accuracy required for demanding turning applicationsโfrom tough alloy steel shafts to large-diameter flanges and precision bushings. Standard Fanuc OiT-F Plus controls, optional live tooling, Y-axis, and sub-spindle configurations make the SL Series equally at home in a manual job-shop or a lights-out production cell.
Key Features
- Meehanite cast-iron construction for exceptional damping and stability
- True 45ยฐ torque-tube slant bed (models 500 โ 800) for superior stiffness and heat dissipation
- 30ยฐ slant bed design (SL-300) for fast chip evacuation in small-part machining
- Hand-scraped Turcite-B box ways ensure ultra-smooth motion and accuracy retention
- Pre-tensioned double-nut ballscrews eliminate thermal drift
- High-torque spindle motors from 25 HP to 50 HP handle heavy roughing cuts with ease
- Optional BMT live-tool turrets with coolant-through-tool holders for C- and Y-axis milling
- Automation-ready options: auto doors, bar-feeder interfaces, parts catchers, and mist collectors
- Fanuc OiT-F Plus control with Manual Guide i for intuitive operation and proven reliability
Specifications
| Item / Model |
SL-300
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SL-300L-II
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SL-400
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SL-500A
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SL-650
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SL-650A
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SL-700B
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SL-800A
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SL-800B
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Chuck Size (in.) |
6 / 8 / 10 |
6/8/10 |
8 |
12 |
10 |
12 |
15 / 18 |
12 / 15 |
15 / 18 |
|
Swing Over Bed (in.) |
15.7 |
22.8 |
22.8 |
22.8 |
22.8 |
22.8 |
27.5 |
27.5 |
27.5 |
|
Swing Over Cross Slide (in.) |
13 |
17.7 |
17.7 |
17.7 |
17.7 |
17.7 |
21.25 |
21.25 |
21.25 |
|
Center Distance (in.) |
24 |
43.9 |
24 |
31 |
66 |
66 |
70 |
80 |
80 |
|
Bar Capacity (in.) |
1.7 / 2 / 2.5 |
1.7 / 2 / 3 |
2 |
4 |
3 |
4 |
4.5 |
4 |
4.5 |
|
Spindle HP |
20 |
15 /20 / 20 |
25 |
35 |
25 |
35 |
35 |
35 |
35 |
|
Spindle Drive |
โ |
โ |
โ |
2 Speed Gearbox |
2 Speed Gearbox |
2 Speed Gearbox |
4 Speed Gearbox |
2 Speed Gearbox |
4 Speed Gearbox |
|
RPM (K) |
6 / 4.5 / 3.5 |
4500 |
4.5 |
2.8 |
3.5 |
2.8 |
2 |
2.8 |
2 |
|
Turret Tools |
12 |
12 |
12 |
12 |
12 |
12 |
12 |
12 |
12 |
|
Special Bar Package |
Optional |
Optional |
Optional |
Optional |
Optional |
Optional |
No |
No |
No |
|
C Axis |
Optional |
Optional |
Optional |
Optional |
Optional |
Optional |
Optional |
Optional |
Optional |
|
Y Axis |
Optional |
Optional |
Optional |
Optional |
Optional |
Optional |
Optional |
Optional |
Optional |
|
Sub-Spindle |
Optional |
Optional |
No |
Optional |
Optional |
Optional |
Optional |
Optional |
Optional |
|
Twin Turrets |
No |
No |
No |
No |
Optional |
Optional |
No |
No |
No |
|
Weight (lbs.) |
8,800 |
12,100 |
15,400 |
15,400 |
20,000 |
20,000 |
30,800 |
33,000 |
33,000 |
Benefits for Metal Cutting Manufacturers
Johnford SL Series lathes deliver rigidity, accuracy, and dependability for manufacturers who need consistent performance shift after shift. The combination of massive castings, wide-stance box ways, and perfectly balanced torque-tube design ensures vibration-free cutting and long machine life.
The result: fewer setups, shorter cycles, and finer finishesโall while maintaining tight tolerances on materials ranging from mild steel and cast iron to stainless and nickel-chromium alloys.
