Core Components and Uses of a CNC Lathe Machine
26 May 2021A lathe machine is generally a tool that can remove the undesired materials from a workpiece. During the operations of the lathe machine, the workpiece spins in a spindle as the fixed cutting tool approaches it to slice the unwanted part. With this machine, components with cylindrical surfaces can be produced. It can also be utilised for the turning of conical surfaces.
With the integration of computer numerical control (CNC) systems, the processes of the lathe machine have been streamlined to effectively generate the desired products without risking the safety of workers. The following are some of the core components of a CNC lathe machine and its uses.
CNC Lathe Machine Components
CNC lathe machines can boast different configurations. But no matter what configurations they may have, these machines generally have the same core components that are useful for their functionalities. Some components that most CNC lathe machines have are as follows.
- Machine Bed: The machine bed of CNC lathe machines acts as their main base, wherein different functional components of the machines are typically located and mounted on. Some components that are often found here are spindle, tailstock body, X- and Z-axis slide, and sub-spindle.
- Main Spindle: The main spindle, alternatively, is comprised of a spindle assembly and a spindle drive system. This specific part has motors, gears, and the chuck that allow the CNC lathe machines to carry out their spinning function. It is typically paired with the C-axis drive, a component that helps position the workpiece during lathe machining operations.
- Sub-Spindle: Boasting similar power and capacity of the main spindle, the sub-spindle can work alongside the main spindle to finish the cutting operations of the CNC lathe machines. Through this component, the efficiency and throughput per cycle of the whole machine improve significantly.
- Chuck: A chuck is a component that can help lock the workpieces in place before the machining begins. This component, alongside the workpiece, would spin during operations as they are attached to the main spindle.
- Guide Way: Guide way is a component that allows the tool to move horizontally and vertically. Through this component, the CNC lathe machines can maintain a smooth cutting process.
- Tool Turret: One part of CNC lathe machines that allows them to work with different types of cutting tools is the tool turret. Typically, the tool turret can be equipped with various cutting tools that are needed for processing specific workpieces.
- Headstock: Headstock typically holds the main spindle of the CNC lathe machines. If this specific component can handle high torque at low speed, then the machines can generate great performance.
- Tailstock: Tailstock is a CNC lathe machine component that can give an extra support force for components, which can be useful for processing long workpieces.
Main Uses of CNC Lathe Machine
As mentioned, CNC lathe machines can generate workpieces that have round shapes and surfaces that are already mentioned before. Industries like automotive, aerospace, electronics, medical, mining, oil & gas, power plant, and shipbuilding can take advantage of this type of machine. Some products that can be generated by this machine include plane surfaces, screw threads, bowls, musical instruments, baseball bats, camshafts, and crankshafts.
For more information about CNC lathe machines, feel free to contact us at Kinetic Engineering.
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