Okuma LB35III

$150,000 - $230,000 Updated 2026-03-13

Key Specifications

Max Spindle

3,000 RPM

Rapid Traverse

20 m/min X, 24 m/min Z

Spindle Power

26/18.5 kW (35/25 hp)

Max Turn Length

600 [850; 1,500; 2,000]

Accuracy

±0.005 mm

Repeatability

±0.003 mm

Overview

The Okuma LB35III is a large-capacity heavy-duty horizontal turning center designed for shops working with oversized shafts, flanges, and large-diameter chucking work. Part of Okuma's heritage LB series, the LB35III carries forward the box way construction and thermal stability that made the LB35 platform a mainstay in heavy industrial production. While it has been joined by the LB4000 EX series in Okuma's current lineup, the LB35III remains in production for customers who need its specific combination of swing, bed length, and heavy-duty capability.

Max turning diameter is 520 mm (20.5 in) with a swing over bed of 720 mm (28.3 in). Bed length options range from 500 mm (19.7 in) to 2,000 mm (78.7 in) and beyond for long shaft work. The spindle delivers 26/18.5 kW (35/25 hp) at up to 3,000 RPM through an A2-11 spindle nose. The 12-inch or 15-inch chuck handles heavy workpieces, and bar capacity is 91 mm (3.6 in) on the standard bore.

The LB35III uses Okuma's proven box way design on both axes with hardened and ground surfaces. The machine weighs approximately 7,800 kg (17,196 lb) on the standard bed, providing the thermal mass and rigidity needed for heavy stock removal. The 12-station turret indexes reliably under demanding conditions.

Okuma's OSP-P300L control runs the machine with Thermo-Friendly Concept integration. The control handles both G-code and One Touch IGF conversational programming. At 3,000 RPM max spindle speed, the LB35III is purpose-built for heavy roughing and medium-speed finishing rather than high-speed small-diameter work.

The LB35III competes with the Mazak Quick Turn 450, DMG Mori NLX 3000/1250, and Doosan Puma 4100 in the large turning center segment. Shops choose it for its proven track record, heavy-duty construction, and compatibility with the Okuma ecosystem. Many LB35III machines from the 2000s and 2010s are still running production with excellent geometric accuracy, testament to the platform's build quality. Specs sourced from Okuma published data.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
Max Turning Diameter	Ø460
Max Turning Length	600 [850; 1,500; 2,000]
Swing Over Bed	720 mm (28.3 in)
Max Spindle Speed	3,000 RPM
Spindle Motor Power	26/18.5 kW (35/25 hp)
Spindle Nose	A2-11
Chuck Size	12 in (305 mm) / 15 in (381 mm)
Bar Capacity	91 mm (3.6 in)
Turret Stations	12
X Axis Travel	270 mm (10.6 in)
Z Axis Travel	600 mm (23.6 in)
Rapid Traverse Rate	20 m/min X, 24 m/min Z
Positioning Accuracy	±0.005 mm
Repeatability	±0.003 mm
Machine Weight	7,800 kg (17,196 lb)
CNC Control	Okuma OSP-P300L
Speed Range	14~3,200 [12~2,800; 40~1,400]
Standard Power	30/22 [37/30]
Rapid Traverse X Z	15 / 20 [C: 100 rpm]
Okuma Global Repair Center	Charlotte, North Carolina
Inches	Metric
Spindle Nose Type	A2-8 [A2-11, A2-15]

Specifications sourced from okuma.com — verified 2026-03-28

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

520 mm turning diameter and 720 mm swing handle large workpieces that most mid-size lathes can't accommodate
7,800 kg mass with box way construction provides exceptional stability for heavy roughing in tough materials
Proven platform with decades of production track record; many machines from the 2000s still in daily production
Long bed options up to 2,000 mm handle extended shaft work with tailstock support
91 mm bar capacity covers large-diameter bar stock for pipe fittings and hydraulic components
Thermo-Friendly Concept compensates for thermal growth during multi-hour heavy-duty turning operations

Limitations

3,000 RPM max spindle speed is low compared to newer LB4000 EX III (3,500 RPM), limiting finishing performance
Rapids at 20/24 m/min are slower than modern competitors, increasing cycle times on multi-tool jobs
Design is older than the LB4000 EX III; some features like ARMROID compatibility may not be available
7,800 kg weight requires substantial foundations and rigging logistics
OSP control has a smaller operator pool than Fanuc-based alternatives

Best For

Heavy industrial shops turning large flanges, pump housings, and valve bodies in steel and cast iron Oil and gas manufacturers needing large-diameter turning with long bed options for drill pipe and collars Shops that already run LB35 or LB35II machines and want a drop-in replacement with updated control Power generation component manufacturers turning turbine shafts and generator parts Contract manufacturers handling oversized workpieces that exceed mid-size lathe capacity

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What does an Okuma LB35III cost?

New LB35III machines run $150,000-$230,000 depending on bed length and configuration. Standard bed models start around $150,000-$175,000. Long bed configurations with tailstock push into $200,000-$230,000. Used LB35II and early LB35III machines from 2010-2018 sell for $60,000-$100,000.

02 Should I buy an LB35III or an LB4000 EX III?

The LB4000 EX III is the newer platform with more spindle speed (3,500 vs 3,000 RPM), ARMROID compatibility, Collision Avoidance System III, and a wider option catalog. The LB35III may offer a lower purchase price and is familiar to shops that have run the platform for years. For new purchases, most Okuma distributors recommend the LB4000 EX III unless you have a specific reason to stay on the LB35 platform.

03 How long do LB35 series machines last?

With proper maintenance, LB35 series machines commonly run 20+ years in production. The box way construction maintains geometric accuracy far longer than linear guide designs. Many shops running LB35 and LB35II machines from the early 2000s report they still hold original accuracy specs after periodic way grinding and spindle bearing replacement.

04 Can the LB35III handle interrupted cuts?

Yes. The 7,800 kg mass and box way construction make the LB35III exceptionally capable on interrupted cuts in castings and forgings. The inherent damping of box ways absorbs the shock loading that would cause chatter or premature tool wear on lighter machines.

05 What's the maximum workpiece weight?

The LB35III typically supports workpiece weights up to 500-700 kg depending on configuration and chuck type. For heavier workpieces, verify with your Okuma distributor based on the specific bed length and chuck setup. Steady rests are available for heavy shaft work.