Large workpieces bring a different set of machining demands.

As part diameters grow, cutting forces increase, vibration becomes more difficult to control, and even small thermal changes can have a greater effect on dimensional accuracy. For manufacturers machining larger automotive, aerospace, transportation, and industrial components, success depends on more than horsepower—it requires machine architecture designed for stability, repeatability, and automation.

Turn larger parts while saving space in your shop with the new MW400II from Muratec USA.

That is where the next-generation Muratec MW400II comes in.

Built on Muratec’s proven MW400 platform, the MW400II is an upgraded twin-spindle CNC turning center engineered for stable, high-precision machining of large workpieces. This next-generation model introduces a newly designed base structure, retains the MW Series’ fully independent split-bed concept, and expands automation flexibility with enhanced gantry loader options for heavier parts.

For manufacturers seeking a large-part CNC lathe or a heavy-duty CNC turning center that balances precision, floor-space efficiency, and customization, the MW400II is designed to meet that challenge. It makes its North American debut at IMTS 2026 in Chicago Sept. 14-19 at Booth 338844.

Why Large Workpieces Change the Machining Equation

Turning larger parts is not simply a matter of scaling up. As workpiece size and weight increase, so do the cutting forces acting on the machine. Heavier cuts place greater demand on the base, spindle support, guideways, and transfer systems. Larger diameters also amplify vibration, particularly during interrupted cuts or aggressive roughing operations.

At the same time, longer cycle times generate more heat throughout the machine structure, spindle area, and coolant system—raising the importance of thermal stability. These factors directly affect dimensional repeatability, tool life, and unattended reliability.

The original MW400 already serves as Muratec’s large-part twin-spindle platform. The next-generation MW400II builds on that legacy with targeted improvements designed to deliver greater stability and precision in large-workpiece machining.

A Machine Structure Designed for Stability

A defining feature of the MW400II is its new, fully independent split-bed structure, a hallmark of the MW Series. This design helps reduce vibration transmission between spindles, supporting more stable cutting conditions during simultaneous or sequential operations.

For twin-spindle machining of large parts, minimizing cross-machine vibration greatly improves consistency and reduces process variation. This is particularly important for large castings, forged blanks, flanges, hubs, and similar components where cutting forces fluctuate throughout the process.

Additional refinements—including updates to component layout, ball screw arrangement, and bearing support—improve responsiveness while maintaining process stability. Together, these enhancements enable the machine to maintain accuracy through demanding roughing and finishing operations.

Managing Thermal Effects for Higher Precision

Heat is one of the most persistent challenges in precision machining, especially for larger workpieces with longer cycle times. The MW400II addresses this with a thermal displacement system designed to stabilize performance.

Temperature sensors are installed on both spindle beds, cross slides, and the coolant tank. This allows the machine to actively monitor thermal conditions and reduce the impact of temperature-related displacement on accuracy.

The result is a machine better suited to maintaining high precision in large-workpiece turning, even during extended production runs.

Selectable Guideway Options to Match the Application

Large-part machining requirements vary by material, geometry, and production goals. The MW400II addresses this with selectable X-axis guideway options, allowing users to choose between:

  • Linear roller guideways for speed and responsiveness
  • Optional box slide specifications for increased rigidity and damping

This flexibility enables manufacturers to optimize the machine configuration for their specific application—whether prioritizing throughput or heavy-duty cutting performance.

Automation for Larger Parts: More Than Just a Bigger Loader

Automation for large-diameter turning must do more than move parts—it must handle greater weight, maintain precise positioning, and ensure repeatability. The MW400II meets these demands with an enhanced gantry loader aligned with its large-part machining capabilities.

Three loader specifications are available:

  • Swivel type: up to Ø200 mm × 200 mm, 12 kg × 2
  • Vertical 2-column: up to Ø280 mm × 200 mm, 25 kg × 2
  • Large-part specification: up to Ø350 mm × 120 mm, 25 kg × 2

These options allow manufacturers to match transfer methods to their specific workpiece size and weight. Rather than forcing a standardized approach, the MW400II provides flexibility to optimize automation at the part level—an important advantage for medium- to large-scale chuck work.

Space Efficiency Without Compromising Capability

Large-part turning centers are often associated with large footprints, but floor space remains a critical resource. The MW400II addresses this by improving space efficiency, offering a footprint up to 30% smaller than the original MW400.

This reduction helps manufacturers add capacity without expanding their footprint and supports more efficient line layouts. It also allows room for secondary operations, inspection, chip management, and material handling systems within the same workspace.

Built for a Wide Range of Large Workpieces

The MW400II is designed to handle a broad spectrum of workpieces with 10-inch, 12-inch, and 15-inch chuck options depending on configuration.

Key specifications include:

  • Distance between spindles: 560 mm
  • Number of turret stations: 10
  • Spindle bearing inner diameter: Ø130 (A2-8) / Ø160 (A2-11 for 15-inch chuck)
  • Axis stroke and speed: X 250 mm / 24 m/min, Z 265 mm / 24 m/min
  • Spindle drive motor: 18.5 kW / 15 min, with higher-output options
  • Maximum spindle speed: up to 3500 min⁻¹

These capabilities make the MW400II well-suited for:

A Next-Generation Advantage for Large-Part Turning

Selecting the right machine for large workpieces can be challenging. Undersized machines limit rigidity and scalability, while oversized machines increase cost and consume valuable space. The MW400II is designed to strike the right balance.

Its advantages center on three key factors:

  1. Higher stability and precision through a redesigned base structure, split-bed architecture, and thermal control
  2. Expanded large-part capability with 10–15 inch chuck options and higher-capacity loaders
  3. Targeted customization through selectable guideways, automation configurations, and machine options

For manufacturers seeking a twin-spindle CNC lathe for large parts with integrated automation and stable heavy cutting performance, the MW400II represents a strong next-generation solution.

Ready to Discuss Your Large-Part Turning Requirements?

The upgraded MW400II is built for manufacturers who demand more from large-part turning: greater stability, more flexible automation, improved precision, and better use of floor space.

If you are evaluating a new automated turning center for large parts, looking to improve heavy cutting reliability, or determining the right configuration for a challenging workpiece, the MW400II provides a flexible, capable platform designed around your production needs.

Start the conversation today and explore how the MW400II can be tailored to your application.