The greatest risk for on-site machines is “sudden downtime.”
In recent years in Thailand, changing economic conditions have prompted more customers to shift from conventional workpieces to new ones and expand their production.

At Murata (Thailand)’s lathe service department, the focus is not on responding after failures occur, but on creating conditions that prevent machines from stopping.

First, we would like to introduce the key features of the services currently provided in Thailand.

• • Minimizing machine downtime risk
⇒ Regular inspections allow us to identify machine conditions and early signs of failure in advance, enabling planned and timely responses.
• Locally self-sufficient service structure
⇒ A service system led by experienced Thai engineers, enabling most services to be handled locally.
• Flexible support and proposals for overhauls and modifications
⇒ In addition to repairs, we offer modification (customization) proposals to maximize the value of existing equipment.
• Stock machines available for immediate delivery
⇒ We currently keep two lathe machines in stock, allowing us to respond quickly to sudden expansion needs.

Beyond Repairs: What Is a Site-Focused Service?

Currently in Thailand, approximately 1,000 Murata lathes are in operation, supported by six Thai service engineers.
The team is built around experienced engineers trained in Japan and is structured to leverage individual strengths, including deep machining expertise and leaders with strong software capabilities. As a result, about 80% of service cases are now handled under the leadership of Thai engineers.

▲Lathe service engineers and sales staff team

[Main Services Provided]
・ Periodic inspections
・ Repairs and parts replacement
・ Overhauls
・ Proposals for modifications to maximize machine utilization

We handle an average of about two overhauls per month. Depending on the scope, completion typically takes 3–4 days, and at most around two weeks.
Considering the risk of machines being down for a month or longer due to unexpected failures, planned overhauls provide significant value to customers

In addition, our overhaul services often include repair packages covering:
✔　Gantry loader repairs
✔　Ball screw and LM guide repairs
These packages have been well received by many customers.
For more details on our overhaul services, please refer to our past articles

Responding to the Desire to “Make Better Use of Existing Machines”

In recent years, we have seen a notable increase in inquiries such as:
“I want to make effective use of machines that are currently idle”
“I want to make changes and take on machining in new fields”

For example:
• Adding transfer devices and integrating with other machines
• Changing the range of workable workpiece sizes
• Reviewing and improving programs and machining accuracy

In response to these needs, we offer proposals that go beyond repairs and parts replacement, including machine modifications (customization) as an option. We also recommend periodic inspections at least once every five years.
By understanding the machine’s condition through these inspections, customers can more easily plan budgets for repairs, modifications, and overhauls.

To Ensure Reliable Lathe Operation in Thailand

Murata’s parallel twin-spindle lathes feature:
• High loader transfer speeds and short cycle times
• High durability and resistance to breakdowns
• Stable, locally provided after-sales service support in Thailand

▲In-stock lathe machine in the showroom

Especially in after-sales service, we are often praised for providing a “different level of peace of mind” compared with price-focused machines. What our service division values is not waiting for customers to raise issues but proactively stepping in with thoughtful proposals.

“By making this kind of modification, you can expand your machining capabilities.”
“Why not carry out an inspection now, before any problems occur?”

Through this kind of communication, we aim to support stable operations at production sites. If you have any concerns about your lathes, no matter how small, please feel free to contact us.
By staying close to manufacturing sites in Thailand, we will continue to propose the best possible solutions to keep machines running without interruption.

Seiichiro Noguchi
Technical Manager / Machine Tool Division
He joined the company in 2017 and has seven years of experience as an engineer. After working as a field engineer at the Shizuoka Hamamatsu Sales Office and spending five years at the Inuyama Branch of Muratec CCS Co., Ltd., he was assigned to Thailand in June 2025. He currently serves as Manager of the lathe service department.

▲Murata (Thailand) staff members

If you are looking to purchase Murata lathes in Thailand or the ASEAN region, or if you are experiencing difficulties with maintenance, please feel free to contact us.