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Excel milling machines

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Dave C08/04/2010 21:49:37
102 forum posts
37 photos
I like several others it appears on this site need any advice I can get regarding the purchase of a milling machine, After reading the articles on this site and my own research I have come across a company called Excel Machine tools,
Does anybody have any experience of using their machines, They appear to have a very extensive range however the model engineering size machines in my eyes appear to be very similar to all the other suppliers, I will add I have no milling machine experience at all.
Any help at all would be appreciated.

Edited By DAVE COULTON on 08/04/2010 21:51:26

Peter G. Shaw09/04/2010 22:23:41
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1531 forum posts
44 photos
Hi,
 
I came across this firm a few years ago, indeed they were exhibiting at one of our shows. They had a lathe I was interested in which had not been badge engineered. (The one I eventually bought was the same lathe but badge engineered.) Hence I suspect they are nothing more that an importer, just like all the other firms.
 
Regards,
 
Peter G. Shaw
Dave C10/04/2010 11:29:36
102 forum posts
37 photos
Thanks Peter,
 
I actually recieved a brochure from them today and the milling machines all appear to be of german manufacture ( optimum range ), I have to say they appear to be of a much higher quality although more expensive than the usual imported alternatives, I appreciate that brochures are no replacement for actual experience and would therefore be grateful to hear of anyone who has had use of these machines,
I,ve also been looking at the Myford VME but this appears to be identical to other machines available but at a higher cost, Can anybody clarify that the machine has quality differences worthy of the significant extra cost. I am aware of the usual Myford quality but this machine seems remarkably similar to others offered.
Regards
Dave
Tony Pratt 110/04/2010 13:13:31
2319 forum posts
13 photos
Hi, I can help on both counts. I was actually working on the Excel ETM 1VS 3phase Junior Turret Mill today at work. I normally work on Bridgeports etc and I find the Excel mill superior in all respects which did suprise me, it seems heavier all round and has a larger speed range 60-4200? I don't know about the prices and how they compare.
I own a Myford VME mill[not originally vari-speed] and it is a fine little machine. Myford put all new electrics on the machines they import and I think they carry out quality checks etc, but of course they are selling them at a premium price. Warco also have a good reputation.
Tony
dcosta10/04/2010 13:23:15
496 forum posts
207 photos
Hi Dave.
 
I'm writing from Portugal.
 
The "Optimum range" as You wrote in reality is made in Chine like many others.
There is, however, a difference as they say: the machines are made under control
and guidance of German engineers. 
 
I have an Optimum  BF20 Vario milling machine for almost three years and, apart
some initial electronic problems (the control box was replaced three times)I have
no problems at all. I must say I am quite satisfied with this machine.
 
In the following URL You can download the full Optimum/Quantum catalog
http://www.optimum-maschinen.de/fileadmin/Kataloge/Optimum/Catalogue_GB_08.pdf 
and within it, at page 2, You'll see the following text:
 
Production
Since 2003 OPTIMUM® produces a large part of its metal processing machines in
its proper factory at the Chinese Yangzhou with a German production manager and quality management representative.
Development, design and quality management mainly take place in Germany.

 
Best regards
Dias Costa 
Dave C15/04/2010 20:29:00
102 forum posts
37 photos
Thanks for the advice Tony, Its appreciated and thanks also to you Dias for your help, I,ve had a look at your album and by the looks of the work you've produced on the mill it should be more than adequate for my milling attempts.
Dave
Andy Ibbotson08/07/2010 10:26:38
1 forum posts
I bought an Optimum BF30 mill.  I am very pleased with it and it definitely a step up from the offerings of WARCo and Chester.  Another benefit is that it is already to go for CNC conversion if thats a route you want to take.  Excel are good to deal with no problems there.
Andy
Martin Sams23/08/2010 16:21:33
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1 forum posts
Hi Dave
I bought a milling machine from Excel Tools, the first one was the German/China Optimum and after two new controllers being fitted they changed it for a large machine and gave me a couple of R8 adaptors to convert the morse tools I already had.
I found them really good to deal with and very helpful
PS Yes they are a importer and some of the tooling they can supply is on a grand scale

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