EMAG VT 4
Key Specifications
Rapid Traverse
Max Workpiece ⌀
machine type
max workpiece length
max workpiece weight
main spindle speed
Overview
The EMAG VT 4 is a vertical pick-up shaft turning machine engineered for high-volume production of medium-sized shaft-type workpieces up to 200 mm in diameter and 630 mm in length. Where the VT 2 handles smaller shafts, the VT 4 covers the medium-shaft segment that includes automotive output shafts, transmission mainshafts, large pinions, CV axle shafts, and electric motor rotors — components that define automotive powertrain and EV drivetrain production.
The machine uses EMAG's proven inverted spindle pick-up architecture, scaled to handle the heavier and longer shaft workpieces that the VT 4 targets. The spindle delivers 43 kW of power at up to 3,000 RPM, providing the substantial cutting capability required for aggressive OD turning, deep grooving, and thread cutting on forged and bar-stock steel shafts. The integral C-axis enables driven tool operations including cross-drilling, milling of flats and keyways, and thread milling without a secondary operation on a machining center.
The 12-station turret accommodates both static and driven tooling configurations, with driven tools rated for the milling, drilling, and tapping operations common on transmission and drivetrain shafts. Gravity-assisted chip evacuation keeps the machining zone clean during the aggressive roughing operations typical on shaft production, and the Mineralit polymer concrete base dampens vibration for consistent surface finish across extended production runs. The compact footprint of approximately 2,500 x 2,700 mm allows efficient production line layouts.
EMAG's TrackMotion automation system links VT 4 machines in OP10/OP20 production lines where parts are automatically flipped and transferred between stations for complete two-sided shaft machining. This automated flip-and-transfer capability is essential for shaft production where both ends require turning, and the TrackMotion system handles this without manual intervention. For automotive and industrial shaft manufacturers running volumes that justify dedicated lines, the VT 4 provides a proven, compact, fully automated production solution.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Machine Type | Inverted vertical CNC shaft turning center |
| Max Workpiece Diameter | 200 mm (7.87 in) |
| Max Workpiece Length | 630 mm (24.8 in) |
| Max Workpiece Weight | 40 kg (88 lb) |
| Main Spindle Speed | Up to 3,000 RPM |
| Main Spindle Drive | 43 kW (58 hp) |
| Main Spindle Torque | 300 Nm (221 ft-lbf) |
| Turret Positions | 12 positions including driven tools |
| C Axis | Integral C-axis for driven tool orientation |
| Rapid Traverse Rate | 30 m/min (1,181 ipm) X and Z |
| Machine Base | Mineralit polymer concrete |
| CNC Control | Fanuc 31i-B or Siemens 840D sl |
| Floor Space | Approx. 2,500 x 2,700 mm |
Specifications sourced from emag.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- 43 kW spindle with 300 Nm torque provides heavy cutting capability for aggressive roughing on forged steel shafts
- 630 mm maximum workpiece length handles medium-length drivetrain and transmission shafts in a compact machine
- Integral C-axis with driven tools enables complete shaft machining including cross-drilling and keyway milling in one setup
- TrackMotion integration enables fully automated OP10/OP20 shaft lines with automatic flip and transfer between stations
- Mineralit polymer concrete base provides superior vibration damping for consistent finish quality across production runs
- Compact 2,500 x 2,700 mm footprint enables efficient multi-machine production line layouts
Limitations
- 200 mm maximum diameter limits the machine to small and medium shafts; larger shafts require bigger platforms
- 3,000 RPM maximum speed is lower than conventional horizontal lathes, limiting surface speed on smaller diameters
- Production-focused design is not economical for job shop work or annual volumes below 50,000 shafts
- Complete OP10/OP20 line with TrackMotion represents a significant investment beyond the base machine cost
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
The VT 4 handles shafts up to 200 mm (7.87 in) in diameter and 630 mm (24.8 in) in length, with a maximum workpiece weight of 40 kg (88 lb). This covers the majority of automotive transmission and drivetrain shafts.
02
The VT 4 handles larger and longer shafts (200 mm diameter, 630 mm length vs 160 mm diameter, 400 mm length) with significantly more spindle power (43 kW vs 26 kW) and torque (300 Nm vs 163 Nm). The VT 2 is for smaller drivetrain shafts; the VT 4 handles medium shafts like transmission mainshafts and motor rotors.
03
Yes. The integral C-axis enables driven tool operations including cross-drilling, flat milling, keyway milling, and thread milling. The 12-station turret accommodates both static turning tools and driven tool holders, enabling complete shaft machining in a single setup without a secondary machining center.
04
New EMAG VT 4 machines typically range from $320,000 to $470,000 for the base machine. Complete production line configurations with TrackMotion automation and two machines for OP10/OP20 typically run $900,000 to $1,300,000 including tooling and installation.
