Aug. 19, 2024
This blog post is adapted from an article that appeared in the February edition of the Machine/Shop print supplement to Modern Machine Shop.
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One of the key characteristics of a lathe, unlike a vertical or horizontal milling machine, is that the workpiece turns, as opposed to the tool. Thus, lathe work is often called turning. Turning, then, is a machining process used to make round, cylindrical parts. Lathes are commonly used to reduce the diameter of a workpiece to a specific dimension, producing a smooth surface finish. Basically, the cutting tool approaches the rotating workpiece until it begins peeling away the surface as it moves linearly across the side (if the part is a shaft) or across the face (if the part is drum-shaped).
Very few lathes today are not controlled by a CNC, although you can still buy a manually controlled lathe. When equipped with means for changing tools out automatically, such as with a tool turret, the CNC lathe is more properly called a turning center. CNC turning centers are available in a wide range of sizes and capabilities, from simple two-axis lathes, which move in only X and Y, to more sophisticated, multi-axis turning centers capable of handling complex four-axis turning operations, milling, drilling, tapping and deep-hole boring &#; all in one operation.
The basic two-axis lathe consists of a headstock with spindle, chuck for holding the part, lathe bed, carriage and cross-slide, tool turret and tailstock. While most lathes have a moveable tailstock to support the workpiece at the end, away from the chuck, not all machines come with this feature as a standard. A tailstock is particularly useful, however, when the workpiece is relatively long and slender. Failing to use a tailstock in this case can cause &#;chatter,&#; which leaves telltale marks on the surface of the part. Unsupported, the part itself can become tapered, because it may bend excessively from tool pressure while being cut.
When considering adding a tailstock as an option to a lathe, pay attention not only to the current job being run, but also the size of future work. When in doubt, include the tailstock with the initial machine purchase. This recommendation will likely save the headache and expense of installing one later.
Regardless of how many axes of motion are required, in evaluating the purchase of any lathe, a shop must first consider the size, weight, geometric complexity, required accuracy and material of the parts being machined. The expected number of parts in each batch also should be taken into account.
Common to all lathe purchases is the question of the size of chuck to hold the intended parts. For turning centers, chucks generally range in capacity from 5 to 66 inches in diameter, or even larger. When parts or barstock must extend through the back of the chuck, maximum spindle through-hole or barstock capacity is important. Machines designed with &#;big-bore&#; options are available if the standard through-hole size is not large enough.
The next critical spec is the swing diameter, or maximum turning diameter. This figure indicates the largest-diameter part that could fit in the chuck and still swing over the bed without hitting. Equally important is the maximum turning length required. This workpiece dimension determines the necessary bed length of the machine. Note that maximum turning length is not the same as bed length. For example, if the part being machined is 40 inches long, the machine bed will need to be much longer to effectively turn the full length of that part.
Finally, the number of parts to be machined and the required accuracy are prime factors for specifying the capability and the quality of the machine. Machines for high production call for high-speed X and Y axes, with rapid-travel rates to match. Machines for close-tolerance work are designed to control thermal drift in ballscrews and key components. The machine structure may also be designed to minimize thermal growth.
This is part one of a four-part series about buying turning machines.
Find more insights about acquiring a new machining center by visiting the Techspex Knowledge Center, &#;Guide to Buying Machine Tools.&#;
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit types of chuck in lathe.
Lathes are one of the most versatile pieces of machinery in any workshop. They can be used for a wide variety of tasks, from turning metal parts to creating intricate wooden objects.
But with so many different models and brands on the market, it can be difficult to know which lathe is right for your needs. Fortunately, at Penn Tool Co., we&#;ve been uniting machinists and woodworkers with the best equipment for the job since !
In this article, our lathe experts discuss what a lathe is, what it does, and how to choose the right model for your workshop. We also highlight the top qualities of the best industrial metal lathes available today.
As one of the tools that every machine shop must have, lathes are a vital part of metalworking and woodworking operations. A lathe is a machine that rotates an object around a central axis while shaping it with various tools.
This cylindrical shaping is often used to create many of the products, components, and materials that many consumers take for granted. If you&#;ve ever wondered at an intricately carved metal object, then you may have a lathe operator to thank.
A lathe can be used to create symmetrical objects by rotating them around a central point. This is done by using various cutting and shaping tools to remove material from the object. The object is typically held in place by either a lathe chuck or a faceplate.
A lathe works by spinning a workpiece around a central axis while shaping it with various cutting and shaping tools. The speed at which the object is spun and the type of tool used will determine the final shape of the object.
Lathes can be used to create a variety of objects, from small parts to large sculptures. In a workshop setting, lathes are most commonly used to create metal parts for machines or other objects.
Now that you know the basics of lathes and what they can do, it&#;s time to consider what you should look for in a new lathe. When choosing a lathe, there are several important factors to consider, including:
When it comes to choosing an industrial metal lathe, it helps to review the most rewarding features of the most popular models. Here are some of the top qualities that you should look for:
1. Heavy-duty construction. A good industrial lathe should be built with heavy-duty construction in order to withstand constant use. Look for a lathe that is made from durable materials such as cast iron or steel.
2. Variable speeds. A lathe with variable speed settings gives you more control over the shaping of your objects. This is especially important if you plan on working with different materials.
3. Ease of use. Even if you are an experienced machinist, you still want a lathe that is easy to use. Look for a lathe with an intuitive design and controls that are labelled clearly.
4. Versatility. A versatile lathe empowers you to create a variety of objects. Look for a lathe that comes with a variety of attachments and accessories.
5. Affordability. When it comes to industrial equipment, you don&#;t want to sacrifice quality for price. Fortunately, we know a place that offers each of the aforementioned benefits on this list, and at competitive prices!
Buy your lathe at Penn Tool Co. to ensure that you get everything you need:
To find the perfect lathe for your workshop, reach out to our team today.
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