Home Blogs Hardinge Bridgeport Machines vs CNC Milling Machines: Which Is Right for Your Shop?

Hardinge Bridgeport Machines vs CNC Milling Machines: Which Is Right for Your Shop?

There are different CNC milling machines in the market that come with different features, different looks, and obviously different brand names. But there are a few machines among all that are recognized by many, and one of such widely recognized names is the Hardinge Bridgeport CNC machines. These machine series feature different other sub series like the XR series or V series, which are highly popular among CNC manufacturers across the world. So, if you are planning to buy a Bridgeport machine and can’t decide whether to go ahead or not, then read this blog till the end, as we will discuss the difference between Hardinge Bridgeport vs CNC milling machines of other brands for a better understanding.

Top Differences of Hardinge Bridgeport vs CNC Milling Machines of Other Brands

Here are some top differences that you need to know when choosing between Bridgeport and CNC mill machines of other brands:

1. Design Philosophy:

The first major point of difference between the two types of machines is their design philosophies. As every CNC brand has a different design mindset, it is important to know what Hardinge stands for. Design of Bridgeport milling machines:

Compact machine footprint
Straightforward machine layouts
Practical machining capability

On the other hand, there are brands that make large sized machines, which have some complex designs, which makes it tough for an average operator to understand and run the machine.

2. Construction and Build Quality:

When you compare the Bridgeport XR CNC machines with other standard budget VMC machines, you will notice a difference in build quality. The brand always tries to position itself as one of the premium brands offering machines with heavily ribbed meehanite cast iron.

The design of the machine is engineered for vibration damping while doing heavy duty machining. Even if you do manufacturing work with materials like titanium and stainless steel, you will also be able to get high quality surface finish due to high stability and vibration damping.

3. Control System Differences:

The next difference factor that we need to know is the difference between the control system of the Bridgeport CNC machines and other CNC mills. Control system differences are one of the most important factors of the milling machine comparison guide, because they are directly proportional to how the operators will be able to handle the machine. For Bridgeport machines:

Fanuc based controls
Siemens options in selected models
Conventional G-Code workflows

But in some other brands, the machines can feature their proprietary control systems, which will increase the learning curve of the operators.

4. Tool Management:

Lastly, the tooling system difference is also an important factor to know when doing bridgeport vs CNC mill comparison. Different entry level CNC mills feature umbrella style tool changers, which have lesser tool capacity and also slower tool changing speeds. Several modern Bridgeport VMCs, on the other hand, feature the side mount tool changer with a capacity of 30 tools.

Which One to Choose – Hardinge Bridgeport vs CNC Milling Machines of Other Brands?

Here are the scenarios in which you should choose the Bridgeport CNC machines:

You machine tough alloys
You want to do precision machining works
You want a machine with well known Fanuc control system

Also, if you are looking to buy used Hardinge Bridgeport CNC machines, then check the collection of MachineStation. You can choose the machines of other brands too, if you have any particular brand preference or if their features suit your machining needs more.

Conclusion:

If you are looking for a compact, high performance CNC milling machine that can do precision machining works then the Hardinge Bridgeport CNC machines are a great choice. So, one might definitely go with these machines, especially used models, if they have a tight budget.

FAQs:

1. What CNC controls are commonly found on Bridgeport machining centers?

Most Bridgeport CNC machines are equipped with Fanuc controls, and Siemens controls on select models.

2. Is operator training easier on Bridgeport CNC machines?

Many shops find Bridgeport CNCs easier to integrate because the controls are widely used and the machine layouts are conventional.

3. Are replacement parts and service available for Bridgeport CNC machines?

Parts and service support are generally available through the OEM service networks and independent CNC service providers. But availability also depends on the specific model and control generation.