Colchester Storm VH-510
Key Specifications
Max Spindle
Spindle Taper
Tool Capacity
Table Size
Spindle Power
x axis travel
How much does the Colchester Storm VH-510 cost?
Price estimate
We do not have a price for the Colchester Storm VH-510 that we can stand behind, so we show no number. Configuration, options and installation move the final price a long way: a quote is the reliable figure.
Overview
Box ways on a machine this small are uncommon, and they are the reason to consider the Colchester Storm VH-510. It is the most compact box-way vertical machining centre in the Storm range, with travels of 510 mm (20.1 in) in X, 410 mm (16.1 in) in Y and 460 mm (18.1 in) in Z, and a 630 x 370 mm (24.8 x 14.6 in) table.
Colchester describes the VH series as built for heavy-duty performance, with extra-wide box ways intended for high-torque, high-load cutting. Sliding ways have large contact areas and damp vibration well. On a small machine that shows up when a face mill is working in steel, when a large drill breaks through, or when an interrupted cut would make a lighter machine chatter.
The table rating supports the claim. It takes 500 kg (1,102 lb), which is a lot for a table of this size and more than the 350 kg (772 lb) of the linear-guideway Storm VL-550. Three T-slots of 14 mm (0.6 in) locate the workholding. The spindle is a BT40 with 11 kW (14.8 hp) and 10,000 rpm, served by a 24-tool twin arm changer, and the spindle nose sits 130 - 590 mm (5.1 - 23.2 in) above the table.
Colchester adds that the VH series can be supplied with a geared head spindle configuration for heavier cutting. On small steel and stainless components, tool steel inserts and similar dense work, that option deserves a conversation with the supplier.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| X Axis Travel | 510 mm (20.1 in) |
| Y Axis Travel | 410 mm (16.1 in) |
| Guideway Construction | Boxways |
| Table Size | 630 x 370 mm (24.8 x 14.6 in) |
| Z Axis Travel | 460 mm (18.1 in) |
| Distance Spindle Nose to Table | 130 - 590 mm (5.1 - 23.2 in) |
| T-Slots | 3 slots, 14 mm (0.6 in) |
| Max Table Load | 500 kg (1,102 lb) |
| Spindle Taper | BT40 |
| Max Spindle Speed | 10,000 rpm |
| Spindle Motor Power | 11 kW (14.8 hp) |
| ATC Type | Twin Arm |
| Tool Capacity | 24 |
| CNC Control | Fanuc 0i-MF Plus / Siemens 828D |
Specifications sourced from colchester.co.uk — verified 2026-10-04
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- Box-way construction on a compact machine
- 500 kg (1,102 lb) table load on a 630 x 370 mm (24.8 x 14.6 in) table
- BT40 spindle with 11 kW (14.8 hp) and 10,000 rpm
- Geared head spindle configuration is available in the VH series
- 24-tool twin arm tool changer
Limitations
- X travel is only 510 mm (20.1 in)
- Three 14 mm (0.6 in) T-slots limit fixture layouts
- No figures for the geared head, rapid rates or torque are published on the page
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
510 mm (20.1 in) in X, 410 mm (16.1 in) in Y and 460 mm (18.1 in) in Z. The table is 630 x 370 mm (24.8 x 14.6 in) and the spindle nose to table distance is 130 - 590 mm (5.1 - 23.2 in).
02
Colchester says the extra-wide, heavy-duty box ways of the VH series give vibration-free operation and suit high-torque, high-load applications. The practical result is steadier heavy cuts in steel. The table rating of 500 kg (1,102 lb) reflects the same heavier build.
03
The Storm VL-550 uses linear guideways and has 550 mm (21.7 in) of X travel on a 600 x 320 mm (23.6 x 12.6 in) table rated for 350 kg (772 lb). Y and Z travels, spindle and tool changer match. Choose the VH-510 for cutting force and the other for speed.
04
Colchester states that the Storm VH Series is also available with a geared head spindle configuration for heavier cutting applications and higher material removal rates. The page gives no speeds, ratios or torque for it, so request those figures.