Used Hardinge Conquest CNC Lathes and Turning Centers for Sale 3


The Hardinge Conquest series represents a comprehensive line of CNC turning centers designed for precision part production in demanding manufacturing environments. Conquest machines are built around Hardinge's established workholding expertise, combining collet-based spindle systems with CNC-controlled turret or gang-tool configurations to deliver consistent dimensional accuracy across high-volume production runs.

The Conquest platform spans multiple configurations including gang-tool lathes optimized for small-diameter bar work, turret-based turning centers for diverse part geometries, and multi-axis models incorporating live tooling, subspindles, and Y-axis capability for complete part machining in a single setup. Fanuc CNC controls are standard across most Conquest generations, providing operators with familiar programming interfaces and broad compatibility with existing CNC workflows.

Used Hardinge Conquest CNC lathes available on the secondary market span a wide range of vintages, configurations, and specifications. Pricing varies based on model designation, axis count, spindle configuration, live tooling capability, control generation, included accessories, and overall condition. Buyers are encouraged to contact sellers directly for current pricing on specific machines.


Advantages of Buying Used Hardinge Conquest CNC Lathes

Investing in a used Hardinge Conquest CNC lathe provides precision component manufacturers, job shops, and production machining facilities with established turning technology at reduced capital investment compared to new equipment procurement.

Reduced Capital Cost with Proven Performance

Used Hardinge Conquest machines deliver the tight tolerance capability and build quality that define the Hardinge brand at substantially lower cost than new CNC turning center acquisition. Hardinge equipment is widely recognized in the machining industry for maintaining dimensional accuracy across extended service life when properly maintained, making used Conquest machines a credible option for shops requiring consistent precision without new equipment capital commitments.

Established Collet Workholding Precision

Hardinge Conquest machines are built around 5C or 16C collet systems that provide superior workholding concentricity and repeatability compared to standard jaw chuck configurations. Collet-based clamping minimizes part deflection during turning, enabling tighter tolerances on small-diameter workpieces including shafts, pins, bushings, and precision fasteners. This workholding advantage persists in used equipment and represents a primary reason precision shops specify Conquest machines for close-tolerance production work.

Fanuc Control Compatibility

The majority of Hardinge Conquest machines across production generations utilize GE Fanuc CNC controls, with specific models equipped with Fanuc 0-T, 18-T, 18i-T, and 0i-TD series depending on manufacturing year. This control consistency reduces operator retraining requirements when adding used Conquest machines to shops already operating Fanuc-controlled equipment. Fanuc service networks and programming support remain widely available, reducing technical support barriers for used machine integration.

Compact Footprint for Production Floor Efficiency

Hardinge Conquest machines are designed with efficient floor space utilization, making them well suited for precision job shops and production cells where floor space is limited. The compact construction does not compromise rigidity or accuracy, allowing facilities to maximize spindle density within available floor areas. Gang-tool configurations in particular offer extremely compact footprints relative to their production capability for small-diameter bar work.

Strong Secondary Market Availability

Hardinge Conquest machines appear consistently on secondary markets across North America and Europe, reflecting the large installed base accumulated since the series introduction. This availability provides buyers with multiple sourcing options and the ability to compare machines by vintage, configuration, and condition. The widespread presence of Conquest machines on dealer inventories also facilitates parts sourcing and service support from technicians familiar with the platform.

Flexible Configuration Options

The Conquest series encompasses configurations ranging from basic two-axis gang-tool lathes through multi-axis turning and milling centers with live tooling, subspindles, Y-axis, and C-axis capability. This configuration breadth means buyers can select used equipment precisely matched to application requirements without paying for capabilities exceeding their production needs. Basic configurations suit dedicated bar turning operations while advanced multi-axis models support complete part machining eliminating secondary operations.


Main Technical Features of Hardinge Conquest CNC Lathes

Understanding the technical specifications of Hardinge Conquest machines helps buyers evaluate available used equipment against specific production requirements and verify compatibility with existing workholding, tooling, and workflow systems.

Spindle and Workholding Systems

Hardinge Conquest machines employ collet-based spindle configurations as standard workholding, a defining characteristic distinguishing these machines from conventional chuck-based turning centers:

  • 5C collet system: Standard on smaller Conquest models including GT series, accommodating bar stock up to approximately 1-1/16 inch diameter
  • 16C collet system: Available on larger Conquest models including T42 variants, supporting bar capacity up to approximately 1-5/8 inch diameter
  • A2-5 and A2-6 spindle noses: Standard configurations on T42 and T51 models enabling chuck and specialty workholding accessories
  • Spindle speed ranges: Vary by model from approximately 44 RPM minimum to 6,000 RPM maximum depending on configuration
  • Spindle motor power: Ranges from approximately 5 HP on gang-tool models to 10 HP and above on production turning centers

The collet system provides workholding repeatability and concentricity suited to precision component manufacturing where jaw chuck inaccuracies would compromise part quality. Step chucks, jaw chucks, and specialty workholding accessories expand workholding flexibility beyond standard collet capacity.

CNC Control Systems

Hardinge Conquest machines across production generations utilize Fanuc CNC platforms:

  • Fanuc 0-T: Found on earlier Conquest production, widely understood but approaching software support limitations
  • Fanuc 18-T and 18i-T: Common on mid-production Conquest machines, offering expanded memory and connectivity
  • Fanuc 0i-TD: Present on later Conquest models, supporting contemporary networking and data management
  • Standard programming: Two-axis G-code turning with canned cycles for drilling, threading, and grooving
  • Live tooling control: C-axis and milling functions on equipped models through dedicated control channels

Control generation affects programming compatibility with existing CAM systems, networking capability, and long-term software support availability. Buyers should verify control compatibility with current shop programming workflows before purchase.

Turret and Gang-Tool Configurations

Conquest models are available in two primary tooling architectures suited to different production applications:

Turret configurations found on T42, T51, and larger models feature indexing turrets accommodating multiple turning, boring, drilling, and live tooling stations. Turret capacity typically ranges from 10 to 12 stations depending on model. Turret designs support VDI or proprietary tool holders with quick-change capability reducing setup time between jobs. Live tooling stations on equipped turrets enable milling, drilling, and tapping operations without workpiece transfer to secondary machines.

Gang-tool configurations on GT series models mount multiple tools simultaneously on a cross-slide top plate, eliminating turret indexing time and simplifying tooling setup for small-diameter bar production. Gang tooling suits dedicated production runs of similar small parts where rapid cycle times outweigh the flexibility advantages of turret tooling. The compact mechanical simplicity of gang-tool designs contributes to the Conquest GT's reputation for reliability in high-cycle production environments.

Axis Configurations and Multi-Axis Capability

Conquest models span a range of axis capabilities from basic two-axis turning to multi-axis machining centers:

  • Two-axis (X and Z): Standard turning capability for OD turning, facing, drilling, and threading
  • Three-axis with C-axis: Spindle orientation enabling angular drilling and simple milling with live tools
  • Four-axis with subspindle: Second spindle for backworking enabling complete part machining from bar stock
  • Multi-axis with Y-axis: Off-centerline milling capability for features requiring radial positioning beyond C-axis indexing
  • B-axis on select models: Additional angular positioning for complex prismatic features

Advanced axis configurations reduce part handling between operations, improving dimensional accuracy through elimination of secondary setup errors and reducing total cycle time for complex components.

Bed Construction and Accuracy

Hardinge Conquest machines feature slant-bed construction that provides ergonomic chip clearance, improved coolant drainage, and operator access to the work area. The slant-bed design positions cutting forces favorably relative to machine structure, contributing to dimensional stability during production runs. Hardinge machine bases are manufactured to close tolerances with careful attention to thermal stability and structural rigidity that differentiates precision-class machines from production-grade competitors.

Spindle runout specifications on well-maintained Conquest machines reflect Hardinge's precision manufacturing heritage, making these lathes suitable for applications requiring closer tolerances than standard production turning centers deliver. Buyers evaluating used machines should request spindle runout measurements and verify accuracy through test cuts before purchase commitment.

Bar Capacity and Part Size Ranges

Conquest models accommodate varying workpiece and bar stock dimensions depending on configuration:

  • Gang-tool GT models: Bar capacity approximately 1-1/16 inch through spindle, suited to small precision components
  • T42 series: Bar capacity approximately 1-5/8 inch, covering a broad range of precision turned parts
  • T51 and larger models: Bar capacity up to 2 inches accommodating larger component diameters
  • Maximum turning diameter: Varies by model from approximately 9 inches on T42 configurations to larger dimensions on T51 and H51 variants
  • Machining length: Ranges from approximately 11 inches on gang-tool models to 25 inches and beyond on larger turning centers

Buyers should verify that target machines accommodate their specific workpiece envelope requirements including maximum bar diameter, part diameter, and machining length before purchase.


Common Hardinge Conquest Models and Configurations

The Hardinge Conquest product family encompasses multiple model designations targeting different production requirements and part size ranges.

Conquest GT Series (Gang-Tool Lathes)

The Conquest GT and GT-27SP represent Hardinge's gang-tool CNC lathe platform optimized for small-diameter precision bar work. These machines mount multiple tools on a cross-slide top plate, eliminating turret indexing time for maximum cycle efficiency on small components. The GT-27SP designation indicates Super Precision specifications with tighter accuracy tolerances than standard GT models.

GT series machines feature 5C collet workholding, Fanuc CNC control, and compact footprints making them well suited for precision job shops and production cells focused on small-diameter turned parts. The mechanical simplicity of gang-tool design contributes to reliability in high-cycle environments. Used GT machines appear regularly on secondary markets across a wide range of vintages from the early 1990s through the 2000s, reflecting the long production run and large installed base.

Conquest T42 Series (Turret Turning Centers)

The Conquest T42 represents the core production turning center in the Conquest lineup, combining 16C collet workholding with a 12-station indexing turret for production flexibility. The T42 platform accommodates bar stock to approximately 1-5/8 inch and supports optional configurations including live tooling, subspindle, and extended machining length variants.

T42 machines are among the most commonly encountered Conquest models on the used market, appearing in configurations spanning basic two-axis turning through multi-axis variants with live tooling and subspindle capability. The T42SP designation indicates Super Precision specifications. Buyers have broad selection opportunities across vintages, configurations, and price points when sourcing used T42 equipment.

Conquest T51 Series (Larger Capacity Turning Centers)

The Conquest T51 extends the turret turning center platform to accommodate larger workpiece diameters and bar capacities compared to the T42. The T51 supports bar capacity up to 2 inches and increased maximum turning diameter, addressing production requirements that exceed T42 capacity limits. Turret configurations typically include 12 stations with live tooling options on equipped models.

T51 machines suit production environments turning larger-diameter components including flanges, housings, and larger shaft diameters that approach or exceed T42 capacity limits. Used T51 machines are available on secondary markets, typically at higher valuations than equivalent T42 equipment reflecting the larger capacity and heavier construction.

Conquest H51 Series (Multi-Axis Turning and Milling Centers)

The Conquest H51 represents Hardinge's more capable turning and milling center configuration within the Conquest family, offering Y-axis capability, subspindle, live tooling, and multi-axis machining suitable for complex precision components. H51 machines support complete part machining from bar stock in a single setup, reducing part handling and improving dimensional relationships between machined features.

Later production H51 models featuring Fanuc 0i-TD controls incorporate contemporary connectivity and data management capabilities. Used H51 machines command premium secondary market valuations relative to simpler Conquest configurations reflecting their advanced capability and shorter production history compared to earlier Conquest series.

Conquest CS-42 and ST Series (Multi-Spindle Configurations)

The Conquest CS-42 and ST series offer subspindle configurations enabling backworking and complete part machining from bar stock. The CS designation indicates configurations with both main and subspindle capability, allowing front and back features to be machined in a single machine cycle without manual part reversal.

These configurations reduce total cycle time for parts requiring machining on both ends, improve dimensional accuracy by eliminating secondary setup positioning errors, and reduce labor requirements through increased automation of the complete machining sequence. Used CS and ST series machines suit high-volume production of complete turned components in job shop and captive manufacturing environments.


Industries and Applications

Hardinge Conquest CNC lathes serve precision manufacturing sectors where dimensional accuracy, surface finish, and production reliability are critical to product quality and operational efficiency.

Precision Component Manufacturing

Aerospace, defense, and medical device manufacturers rely on Conquest machines for precision turned components requiring close dimensional tolerances and controlled surface finishes. The collet workholding system and rigid machine construction support the accuracy levels demanded for flight-critical components, surgical instruments, and implantable device parts. Hardinge's precision heritage makes Conquest machines a recognized platform in regulated industries where equipment capability documentation supports quality system requirements.

Typical precision components produced on Conquest machines include bearing races, hydraulic valve bodies, orthopedic implant components, aerospace fasteners, fuel system parts, and precision shafts where dimensional variation affects assembly function. The ability to maintain consistent accuracy across production runs reduces inspection requirements and scrap rates compared to lower-precision turning equipment.

Job Shop and Contract Manufacturing

Job shops and contract manufacturers utilize Conquest machines for diverse customer part portfolios spanning multiple industries and materials. The turret tooling flexibility of T42 and T51 configurations supports frequent job changeovers with minimal setup time. Fanuc control programming compatibility reduces fixturing and programming time when moving jobs between machines. The Conquest's precision capability allows job shops to quote tighter tolerance work commanding premium pricing versus shops equipped with production-grade turning centers.

Contract manufacturers serving automotive, pneumatics, hydraulics, and electronics industries regularly produce high-volume orders of precision turned parts where Conquest machines balance cycle efficiency with dimensional consistency requirements. The subspindle configurations on equipped models support lights-out production of complete parts reducing labor costs on high-volume contracts.

Toolroom and Prototype Machining

Engineering departments, R&D facilities, and prototype shops deploy Conquest machines for development components, prototype parts, and low-volume specialty machining requiring precision beyond standard production turning centers. The Hardinge precision heritage and collet workholding provide accuracy appropriate for prototype validation where dimensional accuracy must match production intent.

Toolroom applications include precision gauging components, fixture elements, development samples for qualification testing, and specialty fasteners for engineering applications. The ability to produce accurate parts from single setups reduces development cycle time and eliminates dimensional uncertainty introduced by secondary operations.

Automotive and Industrial Component Production

Automotive tier suppliers and industrial equipment manufacturers use Conquest machines for precision shaft components, valve parts, connector bodies, and hydraulic fittings produced in medium to high volumes. The gang-tool GT configurations deliver rapid cycle times for simple precision bar parts while turret-equipped T42 and T51 models handle more complex component geometries requiring multiple tooling operations.

Bar feeder integration with Conquest machines enables extended unattended production runs reducing per-part labor costs on high-volume orders. The 5C and 16C collet systems support fast workpiece loading from bar feeders, minimizing cycle time lost to workholding operations and maximizing spindle utilization during automated production.

Medical Device Manufacturing

Medical device producers specify Conquest machines for implantable components, instrument parts, and device housings requiring biocompatible material machining with surface finish and dimensional accuracy supporting regulatory compliance. The precision workholding and structural rigidity of Conquest machines support consistent results when machining titanium, stainless steel, cobalt chrome, and other medical-grade alloys requiring specific cutting parameters.

Traceability requirements in medical manufacturing benefit from the documentation capabilities of later Conquest CNC controls, supporting lot tracking and process parameter recording for regulatory submissions and quality system compliance.


Pricing Factors for Used Hardinge Conquest CNC Lathes

Multiple variables influence the secondary market value of used Hardinge Conquest machines. Understanding these factors helps buyers assess whether available equipment represents appropriate value for their operational requirements.

Model Configuration and Axis Count

The specific Conquest model and its functional capabilities significantly affect secondary market positioning. Basic two-axis gang-tool GT models represent entry-level Conquest capability at lower valuations reflecting simpler functionality. Standard T42 two-axis turret machines occupy mid-range positions. Multi-axis configurations incorporating live tooling, subspindle, Y-axis, or C-axis capability command progressively higher valuations reflecting increased machining flexibility and reduced need for secondary operations.

Machine Age and Control Generation

Manufacturing date influences valuation through control technology relevance, parts availability outlook, and remaining productive service life expectations. Early Conquest machines with Fanuc 0-T controls function mechanically but may present software compatibility challenges with current CAM platforms and network integration requirements. Mid-production machines with Fanuc 18-T and 18i-T controls balance proven reliability with broader software compatibility. Later production machines with contemporary Fanuc 0i-TD controls offer the strongest integration capability and longest expected support lifecycle, reflected in stronger secondary market valuations.

Spindle Hours and Maintenance History

Accumulated spindle hours and maintenance documentation quality significantly affect reliability expectations and buyer confidence. Machines with low accumulated hours and complete maintenance records command premium valuations justified by reduced technical risk and longer remaining service life before major component replacement. Equipment lacking maintenance documentation introduces uncertainty about internal wear, bearing condition, and deferred maintenance that buyers must factor into acquisition decisions alongside purchase price.

Included Tooling and Accessories

The tooling package accompanying used Conquest machines substantially affects total solution value beyond the machine itself. Collet sets, tool holders, VDI or proprietary tooling blocks, bar feeders, parts catchers, chip conveyors, and steady rests all contribute incremental value. Complete tooling packages enable immediate production startup, while machines sold without tooling require additional investment to achieve operational readiness.

Bar feeders in particular represent significant added value for operations planning automated bar work, as aftermarket bar feeder procurement and interface integration add both cost and installation complexity to bare machine acquisitions.

Geographic Location and Logistics

Physical location affects total acquisition cost through transportation logistics. Conquest machines typically weigh between 3,000 and 14,500 pounds depending on model, requiring professional rigging, specialized transport, and forklift unloading at destination. These logistics costs vary significantly with shipping distance and must be factored into total landed cost calculations alongside equipment purchase price.


How to Select the Right Hardinge Conquest CNC Lathe

Define Workpiece Requirements

Establish the complete workpiece envelope including maximum bar diameter, maximum part diameter, and required machining length before evaluating specific Conquest models. Confirm that target machines accommodate maximum workpiece dimensions through verified specifications rather than general model descriptions, as configuration variants within model families may differ in specific capacity parameters.

Determine Required Axis Capability

Evaluate whether production requirements justify multi-axis capability or whether basic two-axis turning meets application needs. Live tooling capability eliminates secondary milling and drilling operations but adds machine cost and programming complexity. Subspindle capability supports complete part machining but requires bar stock material management and programming discipline to realize cycle time benefits. Quantify the labor and cycle time savings from advanced axis capability before committing to the premium valuations these configurations command.

Verify Control Compatibility

Confirm that the CNC control generation on target machines supports your existing programming and CAM workflow. Verify network connectivity options if remote job submission or DNC operation is required. Evaluate whether the control software version supports your required canned cycles, threading functions, and custom macro programs before purchase. Control incompatibility discovered after acquisition creates programming reengineering costs that may exceed the value difference between control generations.

Assess Tooling System Compatibility

Determine whether existing tooling inventory is compatible with the workholding and tool holder systems on target Conquest machines. Collet type compatibility between 5C and 16C systems affects whether existing collet inventory transfers to new acquisitions. VDI or proprietary turret tool holder compatibility determines whether existing tooling blocks can be transferred or whether new tooling investment is required. Tooling compatibility assessment prevents unexpected post-purchase investment requirements.

Evaluate Machine Condition Thoroughly

Request spindle runout measurements, recent test cut documentation, and axis positioning verification data from sellers. Examine turret indexing repeatability through multiple positioning cycles. Verify live tooling function on equipped machines through powered test operation. Review maintenance records for spindle bearing service history, servo drive maintenance, and coolant system condition. Physical inspection by a qualified CNC technician provides objective condition assessment beyond seller representations.

Plan Installation and Support Infrastructure

Identify qualified Hardinge service technicians or general Fanuc-capable CNC service providers in your region before equipment acquisition. Verify parts availability for the specific Conquest model and control generation under consideration. Establish coolant supply, chip management, and compressed air connections required for machine installation. Confirm that facility electrical supply matches machine power requirements for the specific model under consideration.


Buy Used Hardinge Conquest CNC Lathes on Exapro

Explore the current selection of used Hardinge Conquest CNC lathes and turning centers available on Exapro and connect directly with verified sellers offering precision turning equipment suitable for production machining, job shop applications, and high-tolerance component manufacturing. Access detailed machine specifications, review available documentation, and contact sellers to discuss technical requirements, configuration details, and logistics coordination for your next precision turning investment.