CNC Lathe Machines: Things You Need to Know

Written: May 28, 2019 UNPAID

CNC Lathe Machines: Things You Need to Know

A CNC or Computer Numerical Controller pertains to a computer that reads to code instructions of a machine for it to control the machine tool. CNC Machine tools are commonly used for machining raw materials into completed designs using a series of instructions. The CNC Lathes are the most widely-known machine of this kind. It simply spins a block of materials that will cut, drilled, sanded, finished to come up with a complete three-dimensional output. Basically, CNC lathes are just the same as the old fashioned turret lathe, but this one is run through computer control.

How CNC Lathe Came into Use

Lathes were one of the inventions in the early twentieth century were electric motors were being developed and put to use. Many types of lathes were becoming electrically powered during this period and it became the first major step towards computerization and technology. Over the years, manufacturers seek possible ways of increasing productivity and reducing manufacturing costs - thus the start of using lathe machinery including the CNC lathes.

Parts and Components of CNC Lathe Machines

Present day CNC lathe machines are a combination of a machine and a computer controller which converts a digital signal into a specific action or command. These machines are equipped with special software to create a design that will be replicated on physical wood, metal, and other materials.

A work-piece will be fitted on the chuck and rotated either at slow or high speeds depending on the material used, the kind of cut or center that is required to be created.  The computer will direct the cutting action of the machine as needed in order to come up with the finished product.

Modern CNC lathes have multiple spindles to allow multiple transformations to be carried out on the finished product without the need to stop and reload the items in a different orientation. These lathes are typically built with three jaw hydraulic chucks.

Boring soft jaws or hard jaws are the ones that hold the raw materials which need to be transformed into a new product. Lathes may also be equipped with collet chuck to allow holding variable sizes and precision without the need for a soft boring jaw. A lathe with collet chuck is commonly used for modification or changing of the drawbar which connects the actuator to the chuck.

CNC lathe machines also have tool pieces which cut through steel. These tools are made from carbide, titanium, tungsten and other hard alloy depending on the material that needs to be sliced. These tool bits are used until their tolerance levels are reached. After that, they need to be sharpened or replaced with a new tool bit for effective cutting.

Despite being computer controlled and precise, CNC lathes still need to be operated by a high-skilled machinist. A good CNC lathe machine operator will oversee the process to make it quicker, more productive and more cost-effective than the traditional lathes. Software developers are required to create program and commands for the CNC lathes to perform specific functions and create the desired finish products.

Programming the CNC Lathe

Software developers are the ones who create programs for the CNC lathes. A blueprint of the item that will be created is required for them to make the program. Once this blueprint is analyzed, they will program the cutting of the tools needed for crafting each part. Once it starts to work, every movement is programmed in three-dimensional setup, recording every fine detail. This part takes a lot of skill and undergoes a lot of quality review is required to ensure that the finished product will be flawless and there will be no problems that will come up when the program is already used in a real-life work environment.

Practical Uses of the CNC Lathes

CNC lathe machines are used on hard materials like metal and wood which needs to be processed by turning at a very high speed. The material that needs to be processed is sheared away. The result will be a beautifully finished or intricate product. CNC lathe machines are very versatile and it is used by various industries such as electronics, automotive, sporting, firearm manufacturing, aerospace, and many others.  

These machines can be used to create plane surfaces with screw threads or three-dimensional products which are very complex like ornamental lathes. Some prime items that are created using the CNC lathe machine are - bowls, baseball bats, crankshaft, camshaft, gun barrels, cue sticks, musical instruments, and others.

They are used to drill precise holes such as exactly centered holes in blocks of metal. There is still a lot of areas where traditional and manual lathes are used. It is where priceless craftsmanship is displayed and a key part of the finished product.

Advantages and Benefits of CNC Lathes

Various industries that require CNC lathes are fast growing and these new pieces of machinery are replacing the traditional lathes because of the ease of operation, precise program and cost-effective. Using a computer controlled machine cuts the turnaround time for producing complex parts and guarantee consistency in quality control.

These machines lead a cutting-edge technology when it comes to engineering circle and embodies the latest design and process principles. Manufacturers appreciate having a CNC lathe machine as it reduces production time, setbacks and reduced errors.

Finding A CNC Lathe Manufacturer

Having the best CNC lathe in your production line ensures that you get precise product outcomes at less cost and time. Work is so detailed when it comes to CNC lathes, thus a qualified professional is also needed to run the lathe effectively and efficiently. CNC Lathe machines bring a lot of benefits as it makes the production of many common items easier and cost-effective. This means that they are also easy to find in the market at more affordable prices.

Production companies can research well in finding a CNC lathe manufacturer to purchase the best quality lathe for their industry. There are currently hundreds of lathe manufacturers online, buyers and industry owners should know the specific type of lathe that they need to purchase the right kind of lathe for their business.

Consider the things you need before jumping and buying the cheapest or grandest machine that you can afford. There are very cheap lathe machines offered online but the parts are usually below-standards and are very easy to break. As with other tools and power hardware, make sure to buy only from reputed companies. If ordering a lathe machine through the Internet, consider the shipping cost and the availability of a service center for your convenience.