New Britain Machine CNCMatic

The New Britain Machine CNCMatic is a CNC multi-spindle turning center representing New Britain Machine's purpose-built approach to integrating CNC control architecture into a multi-spindle automatic platform from the ground up, rather than retrofitting CNC capability onto an existing cam-driven mechanical design. Where the Model 832 and Model 54 have roots in traditional Gridley-heritage multi-spindle engineering, the CNCMatic was conceived as a native CNC machine — with servo-driven slides, digital control, and changeover flexibility built into the fundamental machine design rather than added as an aftermarket modification.

The CNCMatic's native CNC architecture reflects a recognition that the economics of multi-spindle production were shifting in the late twentieth century. Traditional multi-spindle automatics excelled when production runs stretched into the millions of identical parts — long enough to amortize the complex mechanical cam setup time over a vast part count. As batch sizes shortened and part variety increased across the automotive and hydraulic supply chains, the cam changeover penalty became a significant competitive disadvantage. The CNCMatic was New Britain Machine's answer: multi-spindle throughput with changeover times measured in hours rather than days.

In the CNCMatic's servo-driven configuration, all cross slides and end-working slides at each spindle position are controlled by a multi-channel CNC system. Each position is programmed independently, allowing process engineers to specify exactly the toolpath, feed rate, dwell, and return motion appropriate to that position's operation without mechanical constraint from cam profile geometry. This full digital control also enables in-process adjustments — a programmable offset to compensate for tool wear, for example — without stopping the machine or changing physical components. The operational discipline required to run the CNCMatic is closer to modern CNC turning center management than to traditional screw machine practice.

The CNCMatic was offered in multiple spindle count configurations, with six-spindle arrangements being most common for the bar diameter ranges typically specified. Bar capacity varied by model but covered the mainstream precision turned parts range from approximately 20 mm to 42 mm depending on configuration. The machine integrates with standard magazine bar feed systems and includes the high-pressure coolant systems required for continuous multi-spindle production across steel, brass, and aluminum materials.

New Britain Machine CNCMatic machines are available on the used and rebuilt market at pricing generally in the $350,000–$800,000 range depending on spindle count, bar capacity, condition, and control specification. This positions them as an attractive alternative to both fully retrofitted legacy Acme-Gridley or traditional New Britain machines and to lower-end new European CNC multi-spindles. For shops that value native CNC design — cleaner electrical integration, better-documented servo systems, and more modern control software — over the mechanical robustness of older heritage platforms, the CNCMatic represents a practical CNC multi-spindle option with North American support heritage.