ELMIRA, NEW YORK: Bridgeport returns to its heritage, by thinking inside the box and introducing the all-new GX 1000 B, boxway machining center. Distinguished by an extremely generous 24" y-axis travel, plus best in class specifications and performance capabilities the GX-Series B family is offered at an unbeatable introductory price. This new addition to Bridgeport's expanding line of popular machining centers will be demonstrated in the Hardinge booth number A-8032 at the 2006 International Manufacturing Technology Show (Sept. 6-13, 2006).

"We're pleased to add boxway machines to our extensive line of linear guideway vertical and horizontal machining centers," said Pat Ervin, CEO, President and Chairman of the Board. "We feel that this addition will allow our customers to better match the machine to the application. The boxway machine offers excellent rigidity for heavy machining operations and high metal removal rates."

Andy McNamara, Milling Product Manager, added, "We want our customers to know that Bridgeport has the breadth and depth in our product line to support their needs today and into the future. The rigid boxway design significantly dampens vibration at the cut, thus offering excellent surface finishes, longer tool life and the ability to take deep, heavy cuts."

The GX 1000 B machine is loaded with high-value features that include:

• Travels (X/Y/Z)- 40 x 24" x 22" (1000 x 600 x 550mm)
• Rapid rates (X/Y/Z)-1181ipm (30m/min)
• Spindle horsepower-17.3-hp (13-kW)
• Spindle speeds-8,000-rpm
• 2-Speed gearbox option
• Large table capacity (X/Y)- 47.2" x 19.68" (100 x 500mm)
• Table weight capacity-1540lb (700kg)
• 20-Tool ATC (Automatic Tool Changer)
• Rigid, cast iron C-frame construction
• Fanuc control

Bridgeport is one of many popular brands within the Hardinge Inc. family, which also includes Kellenberger, Hauser, Tripet and Tschudin. Founded more than 100 years ago, Hardinge is a global leader in providing turning, milling, grinding and workholding solutions to meet a wide array of market needs. The company's common stock trades on NASDAQ under the symbol HDNG, and is headquartered in Elmira, New York.

Hardinge Inc.,
One Hardinge Drive,
PO Box 1507,
Elmira, New York 14902-1507 USA. Phone: 800-843-8801; Fax: 607-734-8819; E-mail: info@hardinge.com