Introduction

A computer that reads machine code instructions in order to control a machine tool is known as a Computer Numerical Controller. Computer Numerically Controlled, (CNC), Machine tools are typically used for machining raw material stocks into finished shapes by executing a series of such instructions. CNC Lathes are probably the most widely known application of this technology. They rotate a piece of material so it can be cut, sanded, drilled or finished, with the end result being a completed three-dimensional item. Essentially, CNC lathes are basically the same as a traditional turret lathe, but operating under computer control.

History

Electric motors started to become generally available in the early 20th century, and this inevitably led to many conventional lathes being converted to electric power. This was the first phase in automating the milling or turning process, It continued rapidly through the 20th century as producers and industrialists increasingly sought to improve efficiency and reduce production costs.

Constituent Parts / Components

Today’s CNC lathes combine a computer with a lathe machine and a controller to convert each digital program instruction into the desired action at the cutting tip. Specialized software is first used to create the required design that needs to be replicated physically on metal, wood, etc. The piece of raw material is then fixed into the machine’s chuck and spun at the required speed so that the programmed action can be carried out. The computer then controls the cutting action of the lathe as required in order to produce the finished product. Modern lathes can have multiple spindles so that multiple transformations can be carried out on the end product without having to stop and reload it in a different orientation.

CNC lathes are usually fitted with three jaw hydraulic chucks. Holding of the raw material to be transformed is usually done with hard jaws or bored soft jaws. Lathes may also have a collet chuck. This allows for variable size and precision holding without the need for soft jaw boring. When equipping a lathe with a collet chuck, it may be necessary to modify or change the draw bar connecting the actuator to the chuck.

The tool pieces that are required to cut through steel are usually made of titanium carbide, tungsten carbide, and other hard alloys depending on the material that needs to be cut. They are used until the sharpness reduces below a predefined level. After this level is reached they are either resharpened, or replaced with a new bit.

Despite their precision, CNC lathes generally require a good operator to oversee the mechanised process. In the past this would have required one or two operators for the actual physical work, so there is still a saving in both time and manpower. Development of the programming code is one cost that was not previously needed, but this is an up front cost which is recouped in the efficiecies of producing multiple items on the lathe.

Programming a CNC lathe firstly requires a blueprint of the item to be created. After the blueprint is analysed, the programming of the cutting tools required for making each part can then be started. Every move is programmed in extremely fine detail so that the required engineering tolerances can be achieved. Great care is obviously required at this stage to ensure that no mistakes are made, as errors in live production could be very costly.

Practical Applications of CNC Lathes

CNC lathes were primarily designed for cutting hard materials spinning at high speed. They are also frequently used for boring precise holes into such hard materials. Modern lathes are also often used on other materials such as plastic and wood. CNC Lathes are widely used for making cylindrical engineering parts such as pistons, gearboxes, etc which require a very high level of precision. There is still a place for more traditional manual and electric lathes however. Usually this is where craftsmanship is a key part of the finished product, or where low production volume does not warrant the cost of a CNC lathe.

Advantages / Benefits

As a percentage of the market share, CNC lathes have quickly established their dominance. They provide a more rapid turn-round time for complex one-off parts and ensure consistency in quality control and design tolerances. They are very much leading edge technology in engineering circles and embody the latest processes and design principles. Three further benefits are reduced production time, reduced inventory and reduced set up times. With the general rise in production levels, automated CNC lathes ultimately offer higher production volumes, with greater precision and fewer errors.

Summary

CNC lathes bring real benefits to the general population and are a perfect example of man’s technological achievements being put to practical use. Goods today can be produced faster, more accurately and at a cheaper cost than previously due to their extensive use.

Bio:
Phil Marston is the editor of www.lathes-cnc.com. Please feel free to contact him for more info.

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