Rising orders has prompted APT Leicester to increase its capacity for close tolerance turned components through the purchase of a latest generation Star SR-20R II sliding head CNC lathe.

A bulging order book has prompted APT Leicester, UK, to increase its production capacity for close tolerance turned components through the purchase of a latest generation Star SR-20R II sliding head CNC lathe.

The new machine builds on APT’s existing complement of Star and Miyano high precision machine tools, by providing increased manufacturing flexibility, faster change-overs and reduced cycle times.

It is ideal for components produced from 3mm to 20mm diameter stock in a wide variety of materials - including aluminium, brass, steel, plastics, stainless and high temperature alloys.

Like all other APT production machines, the new Star CNC lathe is equipped with automatic bar feed equipment and is capable of unattended, ‘lights out’ operation.

“This is our fourth investment in state-of-the-art production machinery during the past 18 months,” said APT’s managing director, David Bailey.

“It reflects ongoing demand for the type of intricate, close tolerance components we specialise in.

With independently-operated front and rear tools and a fully independent sub spindle, versatility is one of the key features of the new machine.

This is backed by high production throughput and extreme accuracy, making the SR-20R II a perfect choice for us.” Bailey continued: “The new Star lathe will produce even complex parts in a single cycle, to aerospace quality standards if called for.

It complements existing manufacturing resources and bolsters our ability to offer one of the most comprehensive and cost-effective services for precision turned components in the UK today.” * About APT Leicester - established in Groby, Leicester, for more than 50 years, APT Leicester is a leading supplier of precision turned components from 1mm to 42mm diameter, in materials ranging from aluminium, brass and steel, to plastics, stainless and high temperature alloys.

The company’s products are backed by certification to internationally recognised ISO quality standards and include components used in industries as diverse as lock making, aerospace, dentistry, confectionery production, reprographics, home entertainment, hydraulic and pneumatic equipment manufacture.

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