New Britain Model 52 CNC Multi-Spindle Automatic Lathe

The New Britain Model 52 CNC is an eight-spindle multi-spindle automatic lathe with a rich heritage in American precision manufacturing. Originally developed by the New Britain Machine Company of New Britain, Connecticut — a pioneer in multi-spindle automatic machinery since the early 20th century — the Model 52 has been modernized with full CNC control while retaining the rugged cast-iron construction and large bar capacity that made New Britain machines a fixture in American screw machine shops. Today these machines are supported through rebuild and CNC retrofit specialists across North America.

The Model 52 accepts bar stock up to 52 mm (2.06 inches) in diameter across eight spindle positions, making it one of the highest-capacity legacy multi-spindle platforms available in the used and rebuild market. The eight-spindle drum provides seven cutting positions and one load/unload position, allowing highly complex parts to be machined in a single pass. The machine's cam-driven origins have been replaced or supplemented by servo-driven cross slides and end-working units in modern CNC retrofit configurations, typically running FANUC or Siemens controls.

New Britain Model 52 machines have been widely retrofitted with modern CNC control systems by specialist rebuilders such as Hydromat, Davenport, and various independent North American retrofit shops. A fully CNC-retrofitted Model 52 provides closed-loop servo control on all working axes with digital position feedback, eliminating the cam wear and drift that plagued legacy setups. Retrofitted machines often include new spindle bearings, reconditioned drum indexing systems, updated electrical panels, and modern safety guarding that meets current OSHA and ANSI B11 standards.

For shops already operating New Britain equipment or seeking a lower-cost entry into eight-spindle production, a rebuilt Model 52 CNC represents exceptional value. Parts availability from North American rebuilders is strong, and the machine's large installed base means that experienced New Britain operators are more readily available in the U.S. and Canadian labor markets than specialists in European multi-spindle brands.