2006 BRIDGEPORT VMC480P3 VERTICAL MACHINING CENTER

Technical Description

The 2006 Bridgeport VMC480P3 is a 3-axis vertical machining center produced by Hardinge Inc. under the Bridgeport brand, designated as the P3 (Production 3-axis) configuration of the compact VMC480 platform. The 480 designation refers to the 480mm (18.9-inch) X-axis travel, making this one of the smallest VMCs in the Bridgeport lineup. The machine features a 23.6-inch by 15.8-inch worktable with a 20-tool automatic tool changer and a BT 30 spindle taper — notably smaller than the BT 40 taper used on larger Bridgeport VMCs. The BT 30 spindle is optimized for high-speed light-cutting applications. The spindle motor delivers 7.5 HP (5.5 kW) at a maximum speed of 10,000 RPM, with rapid traverse rates of 1,890 IPM (48 m/min) on all axes. X-axis travel is 18.9 inches, Y-axis travel is 15.75 inches, and Z-axis travel is 16.9 inches. The machine is equipped with a Fanuc 18i-MB or Heidenhain iTNC 530 CNC control depending on configuration. Machine construction features a rigid C-frame design with linear guideways on all axes optimized for high-speed contouring. Standard equipment includes flood coolant, automatic lubrication, and the P3 production package. The BT 30 taper and 10,000 RPM spindle make the VMC480P3 specifically suited for high-speed precision machining of aluminum, plastics, and non-ferrous materials in electronics, aerospace, and medical component manufacturing.