Machine Comparison
Hardinge Conquest H51 vs Spinner TC 800
Hardinge vs Spinner · CNC Lathes
Summary
The Hardinge Conquest H51 from Hardinge and Spinner TC 800 from Spinner are direct competitors in the cnc lathes category. The Spinner TC 800 leads in x travel (260 mm (10.2 in) vs 171 mm (6.75 in)). The Spinner TC 800 leads in chuck size (500/600 mm (19.7/23.6 in) vs 8 in). The Spinner TC 800 shows specification advantages in 8 categories, though the Hardinge Conquest H51 may still be the better choice depending on your shop's specific needs and the type of work you run. Both machines are proven performers in production environments and represent solid investments for shops in the market for a cnc lathe.
Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Hardinge Conquest H51 | Spinner TC 800 |
|---|---|---|
| X-Axis Travel | 171 mm (6.75 in) | 260 mm (10.2 in) ▲ |
| Z-Axis Travel | 581 mm (22.87 in) | 1,500 mm (59.1 in) — L variant ▲ |
| Chuck Size | 8 in | 500/600 mm (19.7/23.6 in) ▲ |
| Bar Capacity | 51 mm (2.0 in) | 85 / 110 / 175 mm (3.3 / 4.3 / 6.9 in) depending on variant ▲ |
| Max Turning Diameter | 312 mm (12.3 in) | 450 mm (17.7 in) ▲ |
| Max Turning Length | 648 mm (25.5 in) | 1,500 mm (59.1 in) — L variant ▲ |
| Control | Fanuc 0iD, Siemens 840D, or Mitsubishi M720V | Siemens SINUMERIK 840D sl or Fanuc 31i |
| Main Spindle Speed | 5,000 RPM ▲ | 3,200 RPM (110 mm bore); 2,600 RPM (L variant) |
| Main Spindle Power | 15 kW (20 hp) | 28/35 kW (37.5/47 hp) ▲ |
| Machine Weight | 6,804 kg (15,000 lb) | 7,500 kg (16,535 lb) ▲ |
| Price Range | $100,000 - $175,000 ▲ | $120,000 - $220,000 |
Advantages
Hardinge Conquest H51
- Superior main spindle speed at 5,000 RPM vs 3,200 RPM (110 mm bore); 2,600 RPM (L variant)
- More competitive pricing at $100,000 - $175,000 compared to $120,000 - $220,000
- Backed by Hardinge's dealer and service network for parts and support
- Precision production shops that prioritize accuracy and collet-based gripping over multitasking capability
Spinner TC 800
- Greater x travel of 260 mm (10.2 in) accommodates larger workpieces
- Greater z travel of 1,500 mm (59.1 in) — L variant accommodates larger workpieces
- Superior chuck size at 500/600 mm (19.7/23.6 in) vs 8 in
- Superior bar capacity at 85 / 110 / 175 mm (3.3 / 4.3 / 6.9 in) depending on variant vs 51 mm (2.0 in)
- Superior max turning diameter at 450 mm (17.7 in) vs 312 mm (12.3 in)
Verdict
The Spinner TC 800 edges ahead on specifications in this comparison, particularly in X Travel and Z Travel. However, the Hardinge Conquest H51 remains competitive and may be the better choice depending on price, dealer support in your area, or specific workholding and tooling considerations. Both are capable machines — the best decision comes from running your actual parts and evaluating total cost of ownership including tooling, training, and service.