How Advanced AT-361MY Turning Machine with 1100mm Z-Axis Boosts Precision in Medium & Large Workpiece Machining

For a leading automotive parts manufacturer specializing in long-shaft and large-disc components, the struggle to balance processing efficiency, precision, and adaptability had long been a bottleneck. Traditional turning machines either failed to handle the 1100mm+ length of key workpieces or compromised on accuracy when switching between drilling, milling, and turning tasks. That all changed with the adoption of the Advanced AT-361MY Turning Machine—a CNC lathe engineered for high-precision, multi-functional machining, with its standout 1100mm Z-Axis Processing Length solving the firm’s most pressing challenges. This case study explores how the AT-361MY transformed production and why it’s become a top choice for industrial manufacturing.

The automotive parts manufacturer faced two critical pain points:First, its existing machines lacked sufficient Z-axis travel to process long-shaft components (up to 1100mm in length), forcing the team to split production into multiple steps—adding time, increasing error risk, and raising costs.Second, switching between turning, drilling, and milling required manual tool changes, leading to downtime (up to 20 minutes per batch) and inconsistent precision (repeatability often exceeded 0.01mm, failing to meet automotive industry standards).

“We needed a machine that could handle our longest workpieces in one go and switch tools fast—without losing accuracy," said the plant’s production manager. “Our components demand tight tolerances, and every minute of downtime eats into our mass production goals."

The AT-361MY addressed every challenge with its tailored design for medium and large workpieces:

• 1100mm Z-Axis Processing Length: Eliminated split production by accommodating long-shaft components (up to 1100mm) in a single machining cycle, cutting process time by 35%.
• BMT55-12T Power Turret: Equipped with 12 tool stations (TCSM model turret) and a 3.7KW power tool motor, enabling fast, automatic tool switching for composite tasks (turning, drilling, milling). Downtime between tool changes dropped from 20 minutes to under 2 minutes per batch.
• FANUC 0I-TF Control System: Delivered intuitive operation and precise parameter control, ensuring consistent machining of complex procedures. The system’s fast response reduced programming errors by 40%.
• Exceptional Precision: X-axis repeatability of 0.003mm, Y-axis 0.005mm, and Z-axis 0.007mm met the strict automotive tolerance requirements, cutting product rejection rates from 8% to 1.2%.

What makes the AT-361MY Turning Machine stand out for medium and large workpiece machining? Its robust specs that balance power and precision:

• Workpiece Capacity: Maximum swing diameter of 700mm (bed) and 380mm (machining diameter) easily accommodates large discs and housings. Bar processing diameter of 75(92)mm supports versatile material feeding.
• High-Power Spindle: 11-15KW (Guangyu) spindle motor with A2-8 nose end and 92(106)mm through-hole diameter delivers flexible power—3000(2500)rpm speed handles high-speed cutting of aluminum and low-speed, heavy-load machining of steel. NN3026(3028) bearings (130(140)mm diameter) ensure spindle stability, even during long runs.
• Smooth Axis Motion: X-axis (230mm travel) and Y-axis (100mm travel) run at 20m/min and 15m/min respectively, driven by 3.0KW servo motors. R32/10 (X/Y) and R40/10 (Z) ball screws minimize friction, maintaining precision at high speeds.
• Programmable Tailstock: 80mm mandrel outer diameter (MT5 taper) provides reliable support for long workpieces, reducing vibration and improving surface finish—critical for automotive shafts.

The AT-361MY’s design prioritizes long-term reliability and workshop adaptability—key for high-volume manufacturing:

• Hard Tracks for All Axes: X, Y, and Z axes use hard tracks, offering strong wear resistance and high load-bearing capacity. Even after 1,000+ hours of operation, the machine maintains consistent precision, reducing maintenance costs.
• Large-Capacity Water Tank: 300-liter tank ensures effective cooling during long production runs, preventing tool overheating and extending tool life by 25%.
• Space-Efficient Layout: 355*177cm floor area fits most workshop layouts, while the 6400kg weight ensures stability during heavy machining. 400*230*228cm packaging size simplifies long-distance transportation and on-site deployment.

While the automotive manufacturer initially adopted the AT-361MY for long shafts, its versatility has expanded its use across departments:

• Mechanical Components: Machines large gears and housings with 380mm maximum diameter, meeting precision needs for industrial machinery.
• Hardware Accessories: Handles high-volume production of large bolts and fasteners, leveraging the 12-tool turret for multi-step processing.
• Custom Parts: The FANUC 0I-TF system’s flexibility supports quick programming changes, enabling the manufacturer to take on small-batch, custom orders without sacrificing efficiency.

“The AT-361MY isn’t just for long parts—it’s a one-stop machine for most of our machining needs," the production manager noted. “We’ve increased overall output by 28% since installing it."

For the automotive parts manufacturer, the Advanced AT-361MY Turning Machine wasn’t just an equipment upgrade—it was a production transformer. Its 1100mm Z-Axis Processing Length solved long-workpiece challenges, while its power turret, precise control, and durable design delivered efficiency and accuracy.

Whether you’re machining automotive shafts, mechanical components, or hardware accessories, the AT-361MY balances high-precision performance with multi-functional adaptability—making it a cost-effective solution for industrial manufacturing. Contact the supplier today to learn how this advanced turning machine can meet your medium and large workpiece machining needs.