Hardinge GS-42
Key Specifications
X Travel
Z Travel
Max Spindle
Spindle Power
Max Turn Length
chuck size
Overview
The Hardinge GS-42 is a compact precision CNC turning center from Hardinge's GS series, built for shops that specialize in small-diameter, tight-tolerance production turning. The 42 designation refers to the 42 mm (1.65 in) maximum bar capacity through the spindle bore, positioning the machine squarely in the precision small-parts turning segment where Hardinge has been the benchmark brand for over a century.
The main spindle delivers 11 kW (15 HP) continuous power through an A2-5 spindle nose at speeds up to 6,000 RPM. The spindle is built on Hardinge's precision angular-contact bearing arrangement with controlled preload that maintains stiffness and concentricity across the full speed range. Collet-ready spindle design accepts Hardinge 5C and 16C collets natively, delivering 2.5 microns TIR or better at the collet face. A 6-inch (165 mm) hydraulic chuck is available for larger-diameter chuck work.
X-axis travel is 165 mm (6.50 in) and Z-axis travel is 350 mm (13.78 in), defining a compact turning envelope optimized for precision small parts. The machine features hardened and ground box ways on both axes, providing the vibration damping and surface finish quality that distinguish Hardinge from competitors using linear guideways. The 12-station VDI turret supports live tooling for cross-drilling, milling, and threading operations.
Controlled by the Fanuc 0i-TF Plus, the GS-42 weighs 3,200 kg (7,055 lb) and includes through-spindle coolant and chip conveyor as standard. New GS-42 machines typically price between $85,000 and $130,000. The GS-42 competes with the Haas ST-10Y, Okuma GENOS L2000-e, and DMG Mori CLX 350 in the compact precision turning segment.
Full Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Chuck Size | 6 inch (165 mm) hydraulic |
| Max Turning Diameter | 260 mm (10.24 in) |
| Max Turning Length | 350 mm (13.78 in) |
| Bar Capacity | 42 mm (1.65 in) |
| Spindle Nose | A2-5 |
| Max Spindle Speed | 6,000 RPM |
| Spindle Motor Power | 11 kW (15 HP) continuous |
| Spindle Torque | 119 Nm (88 ft-lb) |
| X-Axis Travel | 165 mm (6.50 in) |
| Z-Axis Travel | 350 mm (13.78 in) |
| Rapid Traverse X | 20 m/min (787 IPM) |
| Rapid Traverse Z | 24 m/min (945 IPM) |
| Turret | 12-station VDI |
| Guideway Type | Hardened and ground box ways |
| Collet System | 5C / 16C collet-ready |
| Collet Tir | 2.5 microns (0.0001 in) or better |
| CNC Control | Fanuc 0i-TF Plus |
| Machine Weight | 3,200 kg (7,055 lb) |
Specifications sourced from hardinge.com — verified 2026-03-28
Strengths & Limitations
Strengths
- Hardinge's collet-ready spindle with 2.5 micron TIR provides out-of-the-box precision that exceeds most competitors in this size class
- 6,000 RPM spindle speed enables efficient high-speed finishing on small-diameter parts where surface speed is critical
- Hardened and ground box ways on both axes deliver superior vibration damping and surface finish compared to linear guideway machines
- Compact 3,200 kg footprint makes the GS-42 suitable for precision shops where floor space is at a premium
- 12-station VDI turret with live tooling capability enables complete part processing including cross-drilling and milling
- Fanuc 0i-TF Plus control with proven reliability and broad CAM post-processor support minimizes integration risk
Limitations
- 350mm Z-axis travel limits the GS-42 to relatively short parts, requiring the GS-51 or GS-250 for longer workpieces
- 11 kW spindle power is modest for heavy roughing on larger diameters near the maximum turning capacity
- Box way design results in slower rapid traverse compared to linear guideway competitors, adding non-cutting time in high-volume production
- Hardinge's service network has contracted compared to peak years, with potential longer lead times for parts and service in some regions
Best For
Frequently Asked Questions
01
New Hardinge GS-42 turning centers typically price between $85,000 and $130,000 depending on configuration. Base machines include the hydraulic chuck, Fanuc control, and chip conveyor. Options including live tooling, C-axis, bar feeder, and high-pressure coolant increase the price. Used GS-42 machines from 2015-2022 trade between $45,000 and $75,000.
02
The GS-42 is a newer-generation machine that incorporates improvements in spindle technology, control capability, and build quality over the older Conquest 42. Both share the 42mm bar capacity and Hardinge's precision heritage, but the GS series offers updated Fanuc controls, improved thermal management, and more standard features. The Conquest 42 is available on the used market at lower cost.
03
The GS-42 accepts Hardinge 5C collets for round stock up to 1-1/16 inch and 16C collets extending the range to 42mm. Emergency collets can be bored to custom sizes. Dead-length collet closers are available for applications requiring zero Z-axis movement during clamping. The collet-ready spindle provides 2.5 microns TIR or better.
04
The GS-42 handles both precision and production work. The 6,000 RPM spindle, 12-station turret, and live tooling capability enable efficient production cycles. The box ways are robust enough for sustained production while maintaining the accuracy that distinguishes Hardinge from general-purpose lathes. Many shops run GS-42 machines in two-shift production environments.
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