Colchester Storm VL-800
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-800 cost?
Price estimate
We do not have a price for the Colchester Storm VL-800 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
Do not read the travel from the name: the Colchester Storm VL-800 has 850 mm (33.5 in) of X travel according to Colchester's table. Y and Z are both 510 mm (20.1 in). It is a linear-guideway vertical machining centre with a 950 x 500 mm (37.4 x 19.7 in) table, a BT40 spindle at 10,000 rpm and 11 kW (14.8 hp).
The model to compare it with is the Storm VL-850, which has the same X and Y. Two rows separate them. The Storm VL-850 has 560 mm (22.0 in) of Z and a table rated for 800 kg (1,764 lb); this machine has 510 mm (20.1 in) of Z and a 400 kg (882 lb) rating. So the VL-800 is the lighter-duty version of the size, suited to flatter parts and lighter fixtures.
Within those limits it is a capable general-purpose machine. The table has 5 T-slots of 18 mm (0.7 in), so fixtures can be located across its width, and the spindle nose sits 140 - 650 mm (5.5 - 25.6 in) above the table. A twin arm changer holds 24 tools. Standard features include LED status lights in the front guards, a coolant wash down and an air clean down gun.
Since 400 kg (882 lb) has to cover fixtures as well as the part, a 4th axis with its tailstock and plate will use a good share of the allowance. Buyers planning rotary work should price the heavier model at the same time.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| X Axis Travel | 850 mm (33.5 in) |
| Y Axis Travel | 510 mm (20.1 in) |
| Guideway Construction | Linear Guideways |
| Table Size | 950 x 500 mm (37.4 x 19.7 in) |
| Z Axis Travel | 510 mm (20.1 in) |
| Distance Spindle Nose to Table | 140 - 650 mm (5.5 - 25.6 in) |
| T-Slots | 5 slots, 18 mm (0.7 in) |
| Max Table Load | 400 kg (882 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
- 850 mm (33.5 in) of X travel with 510 mm (20.1 in) in Y
- 5 T-slots of 18 mm (0.7 in) across a 950 x 500 mm (37.4 x 19.7 in) table
- 10,000 rpm BT40 spindle with 11 kW (14.8 hp)
- 24-tool twin arm automatic tool changer
Limitations
- Table load of 400 kg (882 lb) is low for a table of this size
- Z travel is 510 mm (20.1 in), less than the 560 mm (22.0 in) of the Storm VL-850
- The model name suggests less X travel than the table states, so confirm the figure when ordering
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
Colchester's specification table gives the X-axis travel as 850 mm (33.5 in), not the figure in the model name. Y-axis travel is 510 mm (20.1 in) and Z-axis travel 510 mm (20.1 in). The table is 950 x 500 mm (37.4 x 19.7 in).
02
They share X and Y travel, spindle and tool changer. The Storm VL-850 has a 1,000 x 500 mm (39.4 x 19.7 in) table rated for 800 kg (1,764 lb) and 560 mm (22.0 in) of Z. The VL-800 is rated for 400 kg (882 lb) with 510 mm (20.1 in) of Z. Heavy fixtures or tall parts point to the other model.
03
A twin arm automatic tool changer with a capacity of 24 tools, serving a BT40 spindle. The page does not give maximum tool diameter, length or weight, or a tool change time, so ask for those if large cutters are planned.
04
The distance from spindle nose to table surface is 140 - 650 mm (5.5 - 25.6 in). Subtract the height of the vice or fixture and the tool length to find the tallest part that can be machined.
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