KL285 Turning Center

Machine overview

KL285 is a modern CNC turning center of the KL series manufactured by KOVOSVIT MAS. The designation KL originates from Kovosvit Lathe, while the number 285 refers to the typical machined diameter of the workpieces. The machine represents a significantly redesigned and innovative construction and gradually replaced the earlier SP280 machine series in production.

KL285 was developed with a focus on high precision, stability, operator comfort and energy efficiency. It is suitable for universal turning as well as demanding applications in piece production, small‑batch manufacturing and specialized production.

Machine construction and machining accuracy

The KL285 turning center is well known for its high machining accuracy. During testing of the most precise Super Precision version, accuracy levels were achieved that allow turning operations to approach grinding quality. In selected technological processes, grinding can therefore be partially or completely eliminated.

This high level of accuracy is achieved, among other factors, by mounting the headstock on a massive polymer concrete console, which provides:

• effective vibration damping,
• reduced heat transfer,
• significantly improved thermal stability of the machine.

These properties directly contribute to excellent surface quality and long‑term machining accuracy.

KL285 QUICK version – cast‑iron bed

The newly introduced KL285 QUICK version is built entirely on a cast‑iron bed, a traditional and proven machine tool material. Cast iron ensures sufficient rigidity and, consequently, reliable machining accuracy for standard turning operations.

In the QUICK version, the machine is equipped with a standard Sauter turret, unlike the more precise turret used in the Super Precision variant. Despite these differences, the QUICK version provides all the qualities required for standard industrial turning. Thanks to more than 80 years of KOVOSVIT MAS experience in turning technology, KL285 QUICK satisfies the needs of the vast majority of end users, while the Super Precision version remains available for the most demanding applications.

Significant improvement compared to SP280

The KL285 turning center fully replaced the older SP280 machine series, which had been developed more than ten years earlier. Compared to SP280, KL285 introduces substantial improvements, particularly in:

• accessibility of the working area,
• ergonomics and operator comfort,
• machine transparency and visibility.

The distance from the door to the spindle axis is only 350 mm, making workpiece handling considerably easier. A large safety‑glass window further enhances visibility inside the working area.

The machine is also energy‑optimized, featuring:

• drive energy recuperation,
• frequency converters for various machine components,
• optional compressed air saving by switching off sealing air during non‑productive times.

Operator control, comfort and positioning accuracy

During development, strong emphasis was placed on simplicity, user friendliness and operator comfort. All machine settings are adjusted directly via the control panel using the CNC system’s user screens.

From the screen, operators can:

• set clamping pressures,
• control movements and positioning,
• perform setup tasks without mechanical adjustments previously required during workpiece changes.

Positioning accuracy is further improved by the use of direct drives for ball screws, with motors connected directly to the ball screws without intermediate gearing. Additionally, a reduced ball screw pitch increases positioning precision.

A new 15″ touchscreen control panel, which is both swiveling and tilting, significantly improves comfort, especially for operators programming directly at the machine.

Technological capabilities and configurations

The KL285 turning center was available in several configurations, such as:

• MC
• Y
• SMC
• SY

The Super Precision variant offers:

• a tailstock,
• driven tools,
• Y‑axis,
• temperature stabilization.

KL285 is suitable for economical and universal machining of flanges, shafts and bar material. The modular system and wide range of accessories allow both simple turning with a single support and multi‑axis turning, including milling operations outside the turning axis using the Y‑axis.

Typical applications of KL285

KL285 is commonly used for:

• universal turning operations,
• machining of shafts and flanges,
• turning with driven tools,
• drilling and milling using the Y‑axis,
• piece production, small‑batch and specialized manufacturing.

Thanks to its rigidity, stability and accuracy, the machine is also suitable for producing highly precise workpieces.

Machine working environment

The KL285 is designed to operate in a standard workshop environment without exposure to aggressive fumes or conductive dust.

Recommended operating conditions:

• ambient temperature: +15 °C to +35 °C,
• maximum relative humidity: 80 %,
• maximum absolute humidity: 15 g/m³,
• specified accuracy achieved at 20 ± 3 °C.

Service and spare parts for KL285

Although production of the KL285 has been discontinued, many machines remain in active industrial use. Therefore, we provide:

• aftermarket service for KL285 turning centers,
• supply of spare parts (mechanical, electrical and control components),
• machine diagnostics and repairs,
• technical consulting for operation and maintenance,
• support focused on extending machine service life.

If you operate a KL285 turning center, we are ready to provide professional service support.