1998 BRIDGEPORT BRIDGEPORT VERTICAL MACHINING CENTERS

Technical Description

The 1998 Bridgeport is a 3-axis vertical machining center produced by Bridgeport Machines, Inc., continuing the proven VMC 1000/22 platform that anchored Bridgeport's machining center lineup through the late 1990s. The machine features a 45.3-inch by 19.3-inch worktable with a 22-tool carousel automatic tool changer and a CAT 40 or BT 40 spindle taper. The spindle is powered by a 15 HP motor with a standard speed range of 40 to 6,000 RPM and an optional 10,000 RPM high-speed configuration. X-axis travel is 40.2 inches, Y-axis travel is 20.1 inches, and Z-axis travel is 19.7 inches. The CNC control is a Heidenhain TNC 410 or TNC 426, providing both conversational Klartext and ISO G-code programming with high-accuracy 3D contouring capability. Rapid traverse is 394 IPM on all axes. Machine construction features a precision-ground cast-iron base and column with recirculating-ball linear guideways and preloaded ballscrews on all three axes. Standard equipment includes automatic lubrication, flood coolant system, and tool length measurement. Overall machine dimensions are approximately 102 inches long by 85 inches wide by 103 inches tall, with a machine weight of approximately 8,378 lbs. The 1998 Bridgeport VMC represents the final years of Connecticut-manufactured Bridgeport machining centers before the company's acquisition by Hardinge in 2005, and is a widely recognized and well-supported platform in the used machining center market.