Ward Hi-Tech’s new SFM distributorship targets energy sector needs

SFM's heavy duty turning range comprises 20 flat bed model types with turning diameters from 730 to 2,500 mm and bed lengths from 1,000 to 15,000 mm. Heavy duty two and four shear bed designs with bed widths up to 1,470 mm ensure extremely rigid performance, while main spindle motors of up to 80 hp incorporating four stage gear box drive provide high power and exceptional torque output at even the lowest speeds, says Ward. Every SFM lathe is provided with the option of a range of large spindle bore sizes up to 21-inch diameter. A double chuck design headstock together with heavy duty boring attachments and various steady rests are aimed at providing an ideal production tool for typical oil and gas sector products as well as a variety of other larger components such as large diameter tyre moulds, valves, steel rollers and crank shafts. CNC control is provided by Fanuc, Fagor or Siemens systems and the machines can be equipped with C-axis and driven tooling to provide a complete turn-mill facility. Ward Hi-Tech UK sales manager Mike Burke comments: "We have been searching for this type of turning machine range for some time but have been careful to ensure any prospective partner could provide not only the right type of product range, but also support us and our UK customers properly in terms of technical back-up in the future. SFM has ticked all the boxes. "Of course, it has helped that already in the early stages of our relationship we have sold four SFM CNC lathes with swings over bed of 1,070 and 1,420 mm and 5 m bed lengths." Ward Hi-Tech has agreed a forward order stock schedule with SFM so that machines will be available on short delivery or direct from showroom in the future.