Colchester Storm VH-850
Key Specifications
Max Spindle
Spindle Taper
Tool Capacity
Table Size
Spindle Power
x axis travel
How much does the Colchester Storm VH-850 cost?
Price estimate
We do not have a price for the Colchester Storm VH-850 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
For general steel work the Colchester Storm VH-850 is the core size of the box-way Storm line. It moves 850 mm (33.5 in) in X, 510 mm (20.1 in) in Y and 560 mm (22.0 in) in Z above a 1,000 x 500 mm (39.4 x 19.7 in) table. A BT40 spindle with 11 kW (14.8 hp) turns at up to 10,000 rpm.
Why box ways at this size? Because most of what a jobbing shop cuts on such a machine is steel, and most of the time is spent roughing. Colchester's case for the VH series is higher material removal with vibration-free machining, and it supports the claim with a geared head spindle option for the heaviest applications. A stiff, well-damped slide also tends to be kind to tool life in interrupted cuts.
One figure runs against expectation. The table is rated for 750 kg (1,653 lb). The linear-guideway Storm VL-850, with identical travels and table size, is rated for 800 kg (1,764 lb). The difference is small, but a buyer who assumes that box ways always mean a higher table load should read both tables.
Spindle nose to table distance is 130 - 690 mm (5.1 - 27.2 in), a little lower throughout than on the VL model. The table has 5 T-slots of 18 mm (0.7 in) and the changer holds 24 tools on twin arms. Control is the Fanuc 0i-MF Plus or the Siemens 828D.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| X Axis Travel | 850 mm (33.5 in) |
| Y Axis Travel | 510 mm (20.1 in) |
| Guideway Construction | Boxways |
| Table Size | 1,000 x 500 mm (39.4 x 19.7 in) |
| Z Axis Travel | 560 mm (22.0 in) |
| Distance Spindle Nose to Table | 130 - 690 mm (5.1 - 27.2 in) |
| T-Slots | 5 slots, 18 mm (0.7 in) |
| Max Table Load | 750 kg (1,653 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 ways with 850 x 510 x 560 mm (33.5 x 20.1 x 22.0 in) travels
- 1,000 x 500 mm (39.4 x 19.7 in) table with 5 T-slots
- Geared head spindle configuration offered for heavy cutting
- Spindle nose comes down to 130 mm (5.1 in) above the table
Limitations
- Table load of 750 kg (1,653 lb) is slightly below the 800 kg (1,764 lb) of the Storm VL-850
- 11 kW (14.8 hp) as standard
- The page gives no torque, rapid or accuracy figures
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
Travels of 850 mm (33.5 in), 510 mm (20.1 in) and 560 mm (22.0 in) in X, Y and Z, a 1,000 x 500 mm (39.4 x 19.7 in) table rated for 750 kg (1,653 lb), a BT40 spindle with 11 kW (14.8 hp) at 10,000 rpm and a 24-tool twin arm changer.
02
The guideways. The Storm VL-850 has linear guideways, a table load of 800 kg (1,764 lb) and a spindle nose to table distance of 150 - 710 mm (5.9 - 28.0 in). This model has box ways, 750 kg (1,653 lb) and 130 - 690 mm (5.1 - 27.2 in). Travels and spindle are the same.
03
A 4th and 5th axis rotary or tilting table is on Colchester's optional features list for the Storm range. Its weight and that of any tailstock count towards the 750 kg (1,653 lb) table load.
04
The Storm VH-1000, which has 1,020 mm (40.2 in) of X travel on a 1,200 x 500 mm (47.2 x 19.7 in) table and matches this machine in Y, Z, table load, spindle and spindle height range.
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