What is CNC Lathe and Varieties of CNC Lathe Machines

CNC lathes are derived from traditional lathes that have been modified and advanced using Computer Numerical Control technology. CNClathing.com, as a bespoke CNC turning maker, will explain how CNC turning lathes function and what sorts of CNC lathe machines are utilized.

What is CNC Lathe or CNC Turning Machine?

A CNC lathe is a computer-controlled equipment used to perform CNC turning operations such as tapered turning, hard turning, spherical generation, facing, parting, knurling, drill, grooving, and so on. These processes may be performed on a traditional lathe machine, but CNC turning lathes are designed to increase the productivity and the quality of Numerical control components by using current technology and tools.

Benefits of CNC lathes:

• Increased capacity
• Increased accuracy
• Increased efficiency
• Reduced turnaround time

Parts of CNC Lathes

A CNC turning lathe is made up of various pieces, including the tool post, main spindle, sub-spindle, chuck, guide way, head, tailstock, tool turret, monitor, carriage, CNC control panel, and drive motor. Live tools that can work in several axes, such as the X and Y axes, a second turret with various tools, and more are common on modern CNC lathe machines.

How Does CNC Turning Lathe Work?

CNC turning lathes are used to manufacture precision turned components in round or cylinder forms. The completed product is complete and does not require any more CNC machining. The CNC controller communicates with the drive motor to coordinate various components and move the shaft in accordance with CNC programming.

• Check for any defects or unusual circumstances and troubleshoot accordingly.
• To the CNC lathe, upload the G-Code computer file.
• Install a cylinder material block in the chuck and fasten it.
• Rotate the chuck and workpiece after setting the spindle to the necessary speed.
• Check for any discrepancies between the spinning workpiece and spindle speed.
• To position the cutting tool as specific feed, move the tool turret and carriage.
• To acquire the finished CNC lathe component, move the carriage to execute the cutting operation and remove any superfluous materials.

Varieties of CNC Lathe Machines

Lathes are designated as distinct standards as normal CNC turning machines.

• According to the number of axes:

1. 2-axis CNC Lathe: can machine exterior and inner diameters, face, drill, and tap.
2. 3-axis CNC Lathe: X and Z axes, C axis, and live tool system enabling milling, boring, and other operations.
3. 4-axis CNC Lathe: add a Y-axis to a 3-axis machine for off-center machining and complicated item manufacturing.
4. 5-axis CNC Lathe: by adding a second turret, two tools may operate simultaneously.

• According to the job specifications:

1. Speed Lathes: These basic machines include a headstock, tailstock, and tool post and can turn at three or four speeds.
2. Engine Lathes: the most typical lathe machine, capable of turning a variety of metals at a variety of speeds and with a length of up to 60 feet.
3. Turret Lathes: It can accommodate a wide range of tool holders.
4. Tool Room Lathes: create items with excellent precision and quality

• According to the spindle position.

1. Vertical CNC lathe: the lathe spindle is perpendicular to the horizontal, and the workpiece is clamped on a large diameter circular table.
2. Horizontal CNC lathe: flat guide rail CNC lathe and slant guide way CNC lathe. The slant guide way construction on a CNC lathe may make the machine more sturdy.