1998 BRIDGEPORT VMC800-22 VERTICAL MACHINING CENTER

Technical Description

The 1998 Bridgeport VMC800-22 is a 3-axis vertical machining center produced by Bridgeport Machines at its UK facility in the final years of the standard VMC800 production run, with specifications consistent with 1996 and 1997 production. The machine features a 39.4-inch by 19.3-inch worktable with a 22-station automatic tool changer and a BT 40 spindle taper. The spindle motor delivers 15 HP (11 kW) at a maximum speed of 8,000 RPM. X-axis travel is 31.5 inches (800mm), Y-axis travel is 20.1 inches (510mm), and Z-axis travel is 23.6 inches (600mm). The table load capacity is approximately 1,650 lbs. The machine is equipped with a Heidenhain TNC 426 CNC control providing conversational and ISO G-code programming. Machine weight is approximately 7,890 lbs. Standard equipment includes flood coolant, automatic lubrication, and a 22-tool carousel. Machine construction features precision-ground cast-iron base and column with recirculating-ball linear guideways and preloaded ballscrews. The VMC800-22 was phased out in the late 1990s as the XP and XP3 series with their higher spindle speeds and updated linear guide systems were introduced. The 1998 production year is among the last of this model and is mechanically identical to earlier years. It remains a well-supported platform in the used machinery service network with documented specifications and available parts.