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What is a Gap Bed Lathe? Guide to Large Diameter Turning

2026-03-26

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What Kind of Workpieces are Suitable for a Gap Bed Lathe?

What is a Gap Bed Lathe?

A Gap Bed Lathe Machine is a specialized version of the conventional horizontal lathe. It has a removable "gap" section in the bed near the headstock. This "sunken" design creates a layout that is high at both ends and low in the middle, looking like a saddle.

Because of this gap, the swing diameter in this specific area increases significantly. When a large-diameter Face Plate is used, a gap bed lathe can easily and securely clamp various irregularly shaped workpieces or flat components that would otherwise be too large for a standard lathe.

What is a Gap Bed Lathe? Guide to Large Diameter Turning   What is a Gap Bed Lathe? Guide to Large Diameter Turning

Why Does Your Workshop Need It?

A Gap Bed Lathe maintains all the functions of a conventional lathe, such as turning and thread cutting. However, it offers unique advantages for special workpieces:

  • Large Diameter Capacity: It is perfect for flat parts with a large radial size but short axial length. Examples include large flanges and disk-type parts, as well as various irregular-shaped workpieces.
  • Multi-Process Integration: Beyond standard OD turning, ID turning, facing, and grooving, it also excels at drilling, boring, and reaming.
  • Versatile Threading: It supports multiple thread types, including Metric, Inch, Module, and Diametral pitch.
  • Target Users: It is ideal for R&D departments, maintenance workshops, and small-to-medium batch production companies.

How to Choose a Gap Bed Lathe at JingOne?

At JingOne Machine, we understand the strict requirements of different industries for machining ranges. We offer the classic CA series Gap Bed Lathe and the CW series Heavy Duty Gap Bed Lathe.

Here is the machining capacity list for our primary models:

Model CA6240 CA6250 CA6261 CA6266 CA6280 CW6263B CW6280B CW6294B
Max. Swing over bed 400mm 500mm 610mm 660mm 800mm 630mm 800mm 940mm
Max. Swing in gap 630mm 720mm 830mm 880mm 1020mm 830mm 1000mm 1140mm
Effective gap length 210mm 210mm 210mm 210mm 210mm 300mm 300mm 300mm
Max. Workpiece weight 300kg 300kg 300kg 300kg 300kg 1000kg 1000kg 1000kg

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