SOUTHWESTERN TRAK LPM
USED SOUTHWESTERN TRAK LPM
The Southwestern Industries TRAK LPM (Linear Program Mill) is a highly versatile bed mill designed to combine the simplicity of manual machining with the productivity of CNC automation. Manufactured by Southwestern Industries, Inc., the TRAK LPM is widely used in toolrooms, maintenance departments, educational facilities, and job shops where flexibility and ease of programming are essential. The machine is especially popular among operators who want conversational programming without the complexity of full CAM-based CNC systems.
The TRAK LPM is built on a rigid cast iron bed mill platform with hardened and ground box ways for excellent stability and accuracy. Depending on the specific configuration, machines may feature a table size of approximately 10″ × 50″, X-axis travel around 30″, Y-axis travel around 12″, and quill travel of 5″. The machine typically includes a 3 to 5 HP spindle with variable speeds up to 4,200 RPM and an R8 or CAT 40 spindle taper.
A defining feature of the TRAK LPM is the ProtoTRAK CNC control, which allows operators to create programs conversationally by entering dimensions directly. This dramatically reduces setup and programming time for one-off parts, prototypes, and short production runs. Operators can also use the machine manually through electronic handwheels, making the LPM ideal for mixed manual/CNC work.
Industries using the SOUTHWESTERN TRAK LPM include aerospace, automotive, maintenance and repair, educational training, mold making, and general manufacturing. Typical parts include fixture plates, brackets, tooling components, mold inserts, repair parts, and prototype assemblies.
The TRAK LPM remains highly sought after in the used market because it is easy to operate, dependable, and exceptionally versatile for both manual and CNC applications.
SOUTHWESTERN TRAK LPM – AXIS
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Number of Controlled Axes | 3 Axis (X, Y, Z) |
| X Axis | Yes |
| Y Axis | Yes |
| Z Axis (Quill) | Yes |
| Manual Electronic Handwheels | Standard |
SOUTHWESTERN TRAK LPM – AXIS TRAVELS / WORK ENVELOPE
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| X Axis Travel | 30″ (762 mm) |
| Y Axis Travel | 12″ (305 mm) |
| Z Knee Travel | 16″ (406 mm) |
| Quill Travel | 5″ (127 mm) |
| Ram Travel | 15″ (381 mm) |
SOUTHWESTERN TRAK LPM – CAPACITY / TABLE
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Table Size | 10″ × 50″ (254 × 1,270 mm) |
| Table Load Capacity | 750 lbs (340 kg) |
| T-Slots | 3 |
| Table Type | Precision Ground Cast Iron |
SOUTHWESTERN TRAK LPM – SPINDLE
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Maximum Spindle Speed | 4,200 RPM |
| Spindle Motor | 3 – 5 HP |
| Spindle Taper | R8 or CAT 40 |
| Drive Type | Variable Speed Head |
SOUTHWESTERN TRAK LPM – TOOL CHANGER
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Tool Change Type | Manual |
| Drawbar Type | Manual or Power Drawbar |
| Tool Holding | Collets, End Mill Holders, Drill Chucks |
SOUTHWESTERN TRAK LPM – CONTROL SYSTEM
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| CNC Control | ProtoTRAK PMX / SMX |
| Programming | Conversational and G-Code |
| Graphics Display | Standard |
| Networking | USB / RS-232 (varies by control) |
SOUTHWESTERN TRAK LPM – COOLANT / DUST / WATER MANAGEMENT
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Flood Coolant System | Optional |
| Automatic Lubrication | Standard |
| Way Covers | Standard |
| Coolant Enclosure | Optional |
SOUTHWESTERN TRAK LPM – POWER REQUIREMENTS
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Electrical Requirement | 220V / 3 Phase |
| Connected Load | 5 – 10 kVA |
| Air Requirement | 90 PSI (if power drawbar equipped) |
SOUTHWESTERN TRAK LPM – DIMENSIONS
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Machine Length | 96″ (2,438 mm) |
| Machine Width | 80″ (2,032 mm) |
| Machine Height | 96″ (2,438 mm) |
| Machine Weight | 3,500 – 4,500 lbs (1,588 – 2,041 kg) |
SOUTHWESTERN TRAK LPM – GENERAL INFORMATION
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Southwestern Industries, Inc. |
| Model | TRAK LPM |
| Machine Type | CNC Bed Mill |
| Country of Manufacture | USA |
| Typical Condition | Production Ready |
INDUSTRIES THAT USE SOUTHWESTERN TRAK LPM
- Aerospace
- Automotive
- Mold and Die
- Maintenance and Repair
- Education and Training
- Medical Device Manufacturing
- Industrial Equipment
- Prototype Manufacturing
- Tool and Fixture Building
- General Contract Machining
TYPICAL PARTS SOUTHWESTERN TRAK LPM CAN PRODUCE
- Fixture Plates
- Brackets
- Mold Inserts
- Tooling Components
- Prototype Parts
- Repair Components
- Mounting Plates
- Spacer Blocks
- Custom Machine Parts
- Jigs and Fixtures
- Drill Templates
- Precision Assemblies
WHY CHOOSE SOUTHWESTERN TRAK LPM
The SOUTHWESTERN TRAK LPM is one of the most operator-friendly CNC mills available. The ProtoTRAK control allows machinists to create parts quickly using conversational programming, making the machine ideal for prototype and short-run work.
The machine also functions like a manual mill, enabling operators to switch between manual and CNC modes as needed. This flexibility makes it particularly valuable in toolrooms and maintenance departments.
For shops seeking a dependable and easy-to-use milling solution, the TRAK LPM delivers outstanding versatility and productivity.
WHY BUY USED SOUTHWESTERN TRAK LPM
Purchasing a used SOUTHWESTERN TRAK LPM is a cost-effective way to add CNC capability without investing in a fully enclosed machining center. These machines are especially attractive to job shops, schools, and repair facilities where ease of use is more important than maximum automation.
Many used machines include power drawbars, digital readouts, coolant systems, and tooling packages. These accessories can significantly reduce startup costs.
The ProtoTRAK control remains widely supported, and replacement parts are readily available. Operators can often become productive with minimal training, reducing onboarding time and increasing shop efficiency.
For organizations seeking a practical and flexible CNC milling machine, the used SOUTHWESTERN TRAK LPM offers excellent value and dependable performance.
HOW MUCH DOES A USED SOUTHWESTERN TRAK LPM COST?
The price of a used SOUTHWESTERN TRAK LPM depends on control generation, spindle taper, included accessories, and overall machine condition.
USED SOUTHWESTERN TRAK LPM PRICE GUIDE
| Condition | Estimated Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Excellent, Fully Equipped | $12,000 – $35,000 |
| Very Good Condition | $8,000 – $20,000 |
| Standard Production Condition | $5,000 – $12,000 |
| Older or Needs Repair | $2,000 – $6,000 |
NEW VS USED COST COMPARISON
| Purchase Type | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| New Comparable ProtoTRAK Bed Mill | $35,000 – $90,000+ |
| Used Model | $2,000 – $35,000 |
Pricing is influenced by the ProtoTRAK control version, spindle condition, way wear, and included tooling. Buyers should inspect backlash, spindle bearings, and control functionality before purchase.
For shops looking for an intuitive and highly versatile CNC bed mill, the used SOUTHWESTERN TRAK LPM provides excellent productivity, ease of use, and strong return on investment.
