22/12/2025 By CNCBUL UK EDITOR Off

Technical Buyer’s Handbook: Assessing Pre-Owned, Used, Secondhand, Surplus CNC Machines Before Purchase Nakamura-Tome WT 150II CNC Turning Center 2 Turrets 2 Spindles made in Japan

Below is a professional Technical Buyer’s Handbook tailored for assessing a used Nakamura-Tome WT-150II CNC Turning Center (2 Turrets, 2 Spindles, made in Japan) before purchase — with detailed machine specifications and inspection & evaluation checklist for buyers of second-hand CNC machines.


Technical Buyer’s Handbook — Used CNC Machine Assessment

Model: Nakamura-Tome WT-150II CNC Turning Center


Machine Overview & Key Specifications

Machine Type: Multitasking CNC Turning Center
Brand: Nakamura-Tome (Japan)
Model: WT-150II (Twin Spindle, Twin Turret)
Application: Turning, milling, simultaneous machining for medium production runs and complex parts.


Core Technical Specifications

Spindles & Turrets

  • Twin Opposed Spindles for simultaneous machining and productivity.
    • Left Spindle: ~15/11 kW
    • Right Spindle: ~11/7.5 kW
    • Speed: ~5,000 rpm (left), ~4,500 rpm (right).
  • Dual Turrets (Upper & Lower)
    • Up to 24 tools per turret (48 tools total available).
    • Driven tool (live tools) capability for milling/turn-mill operations.

Capacity & Travel

  • Max Turning Diameter: 190 mm
  • Max Turning Length: 515 mm
  • Distance Between Spindle Noses: 200–800 mm
  • Bar Capacity: 51 mm standard / optional 65 mm (left spindle)
  • Chuck Size: Typically 6″ (8″ optional)

Axis Travels

  • X1 / X2: ~167.5 mm
  • Z1 / Z2 / B: ~515 / 515 / ~600 mm
  • Y (Upper Turret): ~±35 mm (if equipped)

Machine Footprint

  • Physical Size ~3.67 m (L) × 2.26 m (W) × ~1.88 m (H)
  • Approximate Weight ~8,900–9,000 kg depending on options.

Why This Machine Is Valuable

The WT-150II stands out due to:
Simultaneous machining on two spindles and two turrets (boosts cycle speed)
Broad tool availability – up to 48 tools ready in tool changers
Multitasking capability – turning + milling operations without repositioning
High rigidity & production-ready design – ideal for mixed part types


Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist for Used CNC Machines

Use this checklist to evaluate any used WT-150II before purchase. It combines mechanical, electrical, control, and documentation inspections.


1. Visual & Mechanical Inspection

✔ Check entire machine body for rust, corrosion, dents, or fatigue.
✔ Inspect all covers & guards — missing ones may suggest neglect.
✔ Check way covers and guideways for wear marks or scoring.
✔ Look for leaks from hydraulic lines, coolant system, or spindles.
✔ Inspect belts, pulleys, and physical joints for age/wear signs.
Why this matters: Visible damage often hides deeper mechanical troubles.


2. Spindle & Bearing Evaluation

✔ Run each spindle at various speeds to check for:

  • Unusual noises
  • Vibration or wobble
  • Excessive heat after run tests
    ✔ Inspect bearings for worn or damaged signs.
    The spindle is the heart of the machine — expensive to repair/replace.

3. Guideways & Ball Screws

✔ Ensure smooth movement with no binding or backlash in axis travels.
✔ Check ball screws for play and lubrication health.
✔ Use a precision indicator to evaluate repeatability & positioning accuracy.
A worn guideway or ball screw degrades machining quality sharply.


4. Control System & Software

✔ Confirm CNC controller brand/version (e.g., Fanuc, Mitsubishi, etc.).
✔ Load and test programs; confirm compatibility with your current CAM system.
✔ Check for software errors, alarms, or outdated firmware.
✔ Verify USB/Network connectivity for program input/output.
✔ Ask about Post-Processor compatibility with your tooling CAM software.
Control issues can cripple integration into modern workflows.


5. Electrical & Panel Inspection

✔ Open electrical cabinet — look for dust, corrosion, burnt signs.
✔ Test panel buttons, switches, and display readability.
✔ Ensure all interlocks and safety circuits function normally.
✔ Verify proper labeling and wiring integrity.
Electrical faults are costly and dangerous if overlooked.


6. Documentation & History

Maintenance Log: Dates & types of service performed
Repair History: Major parts replaced (e.g. spindle, servo drives)
Operation Manuals & Schematics: Essential for future troubleshooting
Parts Lists or BOMs: Helps plan future maintenance
Hours Meter / Cycle Counts: Verify utilization level
Machines with detailed history typically offer greater reliability.


7. Test Machining

✔ Run a test job using your typical workpiece material.
✔ Check dimensional accuracy and surface finish.
✔ Examine cycle time performance compared to expectations.
✔ Review tool changer function, turret indexing, and live-tool operation.
Test machining confirms real-world performance and reliability.


8. Cost Considerations

✔ Price vs. depreciation for age, hours, and condition
✔ Transport & rigging costs
✔ Installation, power upgrades, foundation work if necessary
✔ Tooling and spare parts budget
✔ Potential retrofit or controller upgrade costs
A discounted machine can have high hidden costs if not evaluated correctly.


9. Seller Reliability

✔ Buy from reputable dealers or sellers with references
✔ Ensure clear transfer of ownership
✔ Confirm return policy or limited warranty if available
Trustworthy sellers often provide better support post-sale.


Summary: What a Smart Buyer Focuses On

Mechanical integrity & spindle health
Control system compatibility
Detailed service/maintenance history
Test machining verification
Transparent seller & fair total cost
Availability of spare parts & technical support