At Swiss Labs Machine & Engineering, we are a premier supplier of screw machined parts. The high quality of our components comes from investing in excellent materials, skilled employees, and state-of-the-art equipment. We utilize a variety of machines and tools in our operations, including CNC lathes. Below, we provide an overview of these machines, outlining what they are, what configurations they come in, and what parts make them up.
What Is a CNC Lathe?
A CNC lathe—also sometimes referred to as a CNC lathe machine—is a type of machining equipment that uses a stationary cutting tool to remove material from a rotating workpiece. It uses computer numerical control (CNC) technology to control the movement and action of the tool and workpiece, ensuring the finished piece meets the design requirements.
Compared to multi-spindles and other traditional production lathes, CNC lathes offer a number of benefits, such as easier setup and operation, greater repeatability, and higher accuracy. For these reasons, they have replaced many of the older units.
At Swiss Labs, we use a variety of CNC lathes to deliver quick and precise tooling. Our equipment list includes:
- Citizen-Cincom L20 Type V and VII with 13/16″ Stock Capacity
- Citizen-Cincom L32 Type XII with 1 1/2″ Stock Capacity
- Citizen-Cincom L-12 Type VII with 1/2″ Stock Capacity
Configurations of a CNC Lathe
CNC lathes are available in many configurations to suit different machining applications. Some of the most common are:
- Horizontal
- Vertical
- Flat Bed
- Slant Bed
- Standard
- Multi-Axis
- Swiss-type
- Multi-spindle
- B-axis
Key Parts of a CNC Lathe
While the components in a CNC lathe can vary depending on the configuration, they typically include the following:
- The machine bed. This component serves as the base for the machine. Many of the other components are mounted on it, such as the spindle stock, the tailstock body, and the sub-spindle.
- The main spindle. This component is the heart of the machine tool. It consists of a spindle assembly and spindle drive system. The spindle assembly is where the tool holder is installed, while the drive system is what helps position the workpiece.
- The second spindle. This component—also known as the sub-spindle—works in conjunction with the main spindle to complete operations. It has the same power and capacity as the main spindle.
- The chuck. This component is used to grip the workpiece. It is attached to the main spindle, which allows it and the workpiece to rotate.
- The guide way. This component allows the cutting tool to move horizontally and vertically. It is designed for high accuracy and rigidity.
- The headstock. This component holds and provides rotational power to the main spindle. It must be durable and powerful enough to accommodate the workpiece material.
- The tailstock. This component provides support to the other end of the workpiece not held by the chuck. It is necessary when the workpiece is long (e.g., shafts).
- The tool turret. This component allows the cutting tool to be changed quickly and easily to suit the particular machining operation. The size of it is dependent on the number and size of the tools that are mounted on it.
How Swiss Labs Uses CNC Lathes
CNC lathes are used in a wide range of machining operations due to their precision, accuracy, and efficiency. That’s why the experts at Swiss Labs use them for their screw machined parts!
The Swiss Labs facility houses a broad selection of CNC Swiss machines. These fast and accurate machining units are configured with up to 10 axes and available with live tooling, back-working, and multi-angle drilling and milling capabilities, allowing us to produce complete components with a single setup. Additionally, their magazine-style bar feeding systems enable us to achieve high production velocities for long periods and maintain lights-out operations, both of which help us meet tight timelines while keeping costs low.
To learn more about how we use CNC lathes and how it can benefit you, contact us or request a quote today.