Colchester Storm VL-550
Image: colchester.co.uk, Colchester
Key Specifications
Max Spindle
Spindle Taper
Tool Capacity
Table Size
Spindle Power
x axis travel
How much does the Colchester Storm VL-550 cost?
Price estimate
We do not have a price for the Colchester Storm VL-550 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
The Colchester Storm VL-550 is the smallest linear-guideway vertical machining centre in the Storm range, with travels of 550 mm (21.7 in) in X, 410 mm (16.1 in) in Y and 460 mm (18.1 in) in Z. The table is 600 x 320 mm (23.6 x 12.6 in) and carries up to 350 kg (772 lb). Despite the compact frame it has the same BT40 spindle as the large models: 10,000 rpm and 11 kW (14.8 hp).
That pairing defines the machine. A full 40-taper spindle and a 24-tool twin arm changer on a small table suit short-cycle work on small parts, where the limit is how quickly tools can be swapped and the axes repositioned. Colchester attributes the VL series' shorter cycle times to higher acceleration and axis traverse rates from the linear guideways, though it publishes no rapid figures.
The table has 3 T-slots of 14 mm (0.6 in), enough for one vice and a small fixture or a compact rotary table; a 4th and 5th axis rotary or tilting table is on the options list. Spindle nose to table distance runs 130 - 590 mm (5.1 - 23.2 in). Tall parts need care, because the vice and the tool both come out of that height. For heavier cuts on the same footprint class, the box-way Storm VH-510 takes 500 kg (1,102 lb) on a slightly larger table.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| X Axis Travel | 550 mm (21.7 in) |
| Y Axis Travel | 410 mm (16.1 in) |
| Guideway Construction | Linear Guideways |
| Table Size | 600 x 320 mm (23.6 x 12.6 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 | 350 kg (772 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
- BT40 spindle with 10,000 rpm and 11 kW (14.8 hp) on the smallest Storm frame
- 24-tool twin arm automatic tool changer
- Linear guideways, which Colchester links to higher acceleration and traverse rates
- Fanuc 0i-MF Plus or Siemens 828D control
Limitations
- Table load is 350 kg (772 lb)
- The 600 x 320 mm (23.6 x 12.6 in) table has room for little more than one vice
- No rapid traverse rates, tool size limits or machine weight are published on the page
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
Travels are 550 mm (21.7 in) in X, 410 mm (16.1 in) in Y and 460 mm (18.1 in) in Z. The table measures 600 x 320 mm (23.6 x 12.6 in), has 3 T-slots of 14 mm (0.6 in) and a maximum load of 350 kg (772 lb).
02
A BT40 spindle rated 11 kW (14.8 hp) with a speed of 10,000 rpm. The tool changer is a twin arm type with capacity for 24 tools. Through spindle coolant is listed as an optional feature.
03
Guideways and table. The Storm VH-510 is built on box ways and has a 630 x 370 mm (24.8 x 14.6 in) table rated for 500 kg (1,102 lb), with 510 mm (20.1 in) of X travel. The VL-550 uses linear guideways and has slightly more X travel on a smaller, lighter-rated table.
04
The specification table lists Fanuc 0i-MF Plus / Siemens 828D. In the standard features Colchester mentions a choice of Siemens, FANUC or Heidenhain CNC control systems with integrated safety, and touch screen control.
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