i need some assistance in buying my first cnc lathe. about 6 years ago i started my own (after working all day at a full time job) business turning some smaller parts on some hardinge automatic turret lathes. i think it is time to move away from these machines and get into something that is faster and gives my business more flexability. with the help of this machine maybe one day i can give up my current job and make the big move into self employment. i want to use the machines i currently have as a trade in if possible. in fact i need to. i am looking for something that gives me bar feed capability up to 1 1/2" diameter with either a chuck or collet system. a fanuc control would be great because i live out in the middle of no where and i know i can get service for a controller like that. considering the fact that i have been using turret lathes for as long as i have...speed of the rapids and tool changes are not all that important right now. some other things i have put some thought into having are; parts catcher, 15 to 20 horse power due to power limitations and the fact that i have to use a phase converter, having chucking and collet capabilites so i can turn diameters from 3/4" to at least 6", and over all something that is not all worn out and will be in need of repair any time soon. i was thinking a machine roughly 10 years old or so. i am sure there are some other important factors that i have left out so that is why i am putting up this thread so i can get the help from some peole who have been there and done that before. can any one please help me fill in some of the blanks and if nothing else point in the right direction?
thanks in advance
jr