A WMW heavy-duty lathe with 5-meter turning length, manufactured in Germany, is a significant capital asset designed for large shafts, rollers, cylinders, and heavy industrial components. While WMW machines are known for their robust cast iron beds and long service life, improper evaluation of a used machine can result in high refurbishment costs.

Below is a professional, step-by-step inspection and evaluation guide.

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1. Machine Identity and Documentation

• Confirm the exact WMW model designation
• Verify serial number and year of manufacture
• Check machine plate matches documentation
• Request original:
  • Operation manuals
  • Electrical diagrams
  • Maintenance logs
  • Spare parts lists

Missing documentation increases commissioning risk and service costs.

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2. Previous Usage and Operating History

• Type of work performed (continuous heavy roughing vs. light finishing)
• Shift structure (single shift vs. 24/7 operation)
• Industry environment (steel mill, repair shop, production line)
• Confirm whether the machine was used for long shafts close to maximum capacity

Heavy continuous duty accelerates bed and spindle wear.

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3. Bed, Guideways, and Structural Condition

• Inspect the bed visually for scoring, pitting, cracks, or regrinding marks
• Check for uneven wear near the headstock
• Use a precision straightedge and feeler gauges if possible
• Excessive bed wear is one of the most expensive repairs on large lathes

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4. Headstock and Spindle Assembly

• Rotate spindle manually; it should be smooth and silent
• Run spindle at low, medium, and maximum speeds
• Listen for bearing noise or vibration
• Measure spindle run-out with a dial indicator
• Inspect spindle nose (DIN / ISO / Camlock) for damage

Spindle bearing replacement on heavy WMW lathes is costly and time-consuming.

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5. Tailstock Condition and Alignment

• Tailstock movement should be smooth across full travel
• Quill must extend and retract without resistance
• Locking mechanisms must hold firmly
• Check alignment between tailstock and headstock using a test bar

Misalignment indicates bed wear or tailstock damage.

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6. Carriage, Cross Slide, and Leadscrews

• Traverse carriage along full bed length
• Check for tight spots or uneven resistance
• Measure backlash in:
  • Cross slide
  • Longitudinal feed
• Excessive backlash suggests worn nuts, screws, or slides

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7. Gearbox, Feeds, and Mechanical Drives

• Engage all feed rates and threading ranges
• Listen for abnormal gear noise
• Inspect oil condition inside gearbox
• Metal particles in oil indicate internal wear
• Confirm metric and inch threading options function correctly

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8. Electrical System and Drive Motors

• Inspect electrical cabinet for:
  • Clean wiring
  • Original components
  • No burn marks or temporary fixes
• Verify main spindle motor condition
• Check coolant pump, lubrication pump, and auxiliary motors
• Confirm voltage compatibility with your facility

Electrical retrofits can exceed the cost of mechanical repairs.

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9. Lubrication and Coolant Systems

• Automatic lubrication system must distribute oil correctly
• Check lubrication lines for blockages
• Coolant tank condition and pump operation
• Leaks indicate neglect or seal failure

Poor lubrication history drastically reduces machine life.

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10. Accessories and Included Equipment

Confirm inclusion and condition of:

• Steady rests and follow rests
• Faceplates
• Chucks
• Centers
• Tool holders
• Threading attachments

Accessories for large lathes are expensive and hard to source separately.

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11. Test Run and Functional Verification

If possible, conduct a live test:

• Run spindle at multiple speeds
• Engage feeds under load
• Check vibration levels
• Verify coolant and lubrication during operation

A machine that cannot be tested should be priced with risk allowance.

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12. Non-Destructive Inspection (If Available)

• Dye penetrant testing on critical castings
• Ultrasonic inspection for hidden cracks
• Especially important for machines used in heavy forging or steel plants

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13. Spare Parts and Service Support

• Confirm availability of:
  • Bearings
  • Gears
  • Seals
  • Leadscrews
• Some WMW parts may require custom manufacturing

Parts availability affects long-term viability.

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14. Transport, Rigging, and Installation

A 5-meter heavy-duty lathe requires:

• Professional rigging
• Heavy-load cranes or gantries
• Proper foundation and leveling
• Transport costs can be substantial and must be budgeted separately

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15. Common Red Flags

Avoid machines with:

• Severe bed wear near headstock
• Spindle noise or vibration
• Missing electrical diagrams
• Poorly executed retrofits
• Visible structural cracks
• Flood or corrosion damage

These issues often exceed the machine’s residual value.

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Final Professional Recommendation

A used WMW 5-meter heavy-duty lathe can deliver decades of reliable service if properly inspected. Always evaluate mechanical condition first, then electrical systems, and finally logistics and support costs.