Colchester Vertical Machining Centers (VMC)

Colchester Storm VL-1300

Q: How much does the Colchester Storm VL-1300 cost?

The price estimate for the Colchester Storm VL-1300 is uncertain: we have no price for it that we can cite and no estimate we can stand behind, so we give no figure. Configuration, tooling, automation and installation move the final price substantially. A specific price can be requested at https://machinetoolindex.com/machines/colchester-storm-vl-1300#price; the request is passed to Colchester or an authorised dealer.

Specs verified 2026-10-04 · colchester.co.uk Updated 2026-10-04

Key Specifications

Max Spindle

10,000 rpm

Spindle Taper

BT40

Tool Capacity

Table Size

1,450 x 700 mm (57.1 x 27.6 in)

Spindle Power

11 kW (14.8 hp)

x axis travel

1,300 mm (51.2 in)

How much does the Colchester Storm VL-1300 cost?

Price estimate

Uncertain

We do not have a price for the Colchester Storm VL-1300 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

Seven hundred millimetres in Y and Z give the Colchester Storm VL-1300 a nearly cubic working zone for a C-frame vertical: 1,300 mm (51.2 in) in X, 700 mm (27.6 in) in Y and 700 mm (27.6 in) in Z. The table is 1,450 x 700 mm (57.1 x 27.6 in) and takes 1,500 kg (3,307 lb).

The spindle nose can rise 830 mm (32.7 in) above the table and come down to 130 mm (5.1 in). Tall work is therefore a real possibility: a gearbox housing stood on end, a fixture tower, or a large trunnion with the part swung over the top. The 4th and 5th axis rotary or tilting table that Colchester lists as an option has the height it needs on this model.

How does a machine this size stay quick? Colchester's answer for the VL series is linear guideways on all axes and a high-speed spindle. The spindle is a BT40 at 10,000 rpm and 11 kW (14.8 hp). On large aluminium parts, such as vacuum chamber plates or automation frames, that combination works well. On large steel parts the modest power means patient roughing.

Colchester lists two box-way machines at this size as well. The Storm VH-1300 has similar travels with 15 kW (20.1 hp), so the decision is between speed on linear ways and cutting force on box ways. A 24-tool twin arm changer and 5 T-slots of 18 mm (0.7 in) complete the specification.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
X Axis Travel	1,300 mm (51.2 in)
Y Axis Travel	700 mm (27.6 in)
Guideway Construction	Linear Guideways
Table Size	1,450 x 700 mm (57.1 x 27.6 in)
Z Axis Travel	700 mm (27.6 in)
Distance Spindle Nose to Table	130 - 830 mm (5.1 - 32.7 in)
T-Slots	5 slots, 18 mm (0.7 in)
Max Table Load	1,500 kg (3,307 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

700 mm (27.6 in) of travel in both Y and Z
Up to 830 mm (32.7 in) from spindle nose to table
1,500 kg (3,307 lb) table load on a 1,450 x 700 mm (57.1 x 27.6 in) table
Linear guideways and a 10,000 rpm spindle for large aluminium work

Limitations

11 kW (14.8 hp) is light for the size; the Storm VH-1300 offers 15 kW (20.1 hp)
24 tools may be few for large multi-feature parts
No coolant tank, chip conveyor or weight details are published; a swarf conveyor is optional

Best For

Tall housings and fixture towers needing Z height Large aluminium plates and frames Trunnion or tilting-table work on a 3-axis base machine

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What size is the Storm VL-1300 work envelope?

1,300 mm (51.2 in) in X, 700 mm (27.6 in) in Y and 700 mm (27.6 in) in Z. Spindle nose to table distance is 130 - 830 mm (5.1 - 32.7 in). The table measures 1,450 x 700 mm (57.1 x 27.6 in).

02 What load does the table take?

1,500 kg (3,307 lb). The table has 5 T-slots of 18 mm (0.7 in). The longer Storm VL-1600 has the same rating on a 1,750 x 700 mm (68.9 x 27.6 in) table.

03 How does the VL-1300 differ from the Storm VH-1300?

The Storm VH-1300 runs on box ways, has 15 kW (20.1 hp) at the spindle and a 1,500 x 650 mm (59.1 x 25.6 in) table, with 710 mm (28.0 in) of Z. The VL-1300 has linear guideways, 11 kW (14.8 hp) and a slightly deeper table. Both carry 1,500 kg (3,307 lb).

04 Which tool changer and taper does it have?

A twin arm automatic tool changer with 24 tools and a BT40 spindle taper. Maximum tool dimensions and tool change time are not given on Colchester's page.