Cnc Lathes - A Concise Overview

Cnc Lathes - A Concise Overview

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Introduction

A Computer Numerical Controller refers to a computer that reads machine code instructions in order to control a machine tool. Computer Numerically Controlled, (CNC), Machine tools are used for machining raw material supplies into completed designs by performing a series of these instructions. CNC Lathes are the most common use of this kind of engineering science. They rotate a piece of material so that it can be cut, sanded, drilled or polished, with the final result being a finished three-dimensional product. In simple terms, CNC lathes are simply the same as a regular turret lathe, but working under computer control.

History

Electric motors became generally available in the market in the early 20th century, and this inevitably led to many standard lathes being converted to electrical power. This was the initial stage in automating the milling or turning process, It continued aggressively throughout the 20th century due to the fact producers and industrialists increasingly sought to optimize efficiency and reduce production costs.

Constituent Parts / Components

Modern CNC lathes are a combination of a computer with a lathe machine and a controller that converts each digital signal into the desired action. Specialized software is first used to create the required design that needs to be replicated physically on metal, wood, etc. The work piece is next fitted on the chuck and rotated at slow or high speeds depending on the material and the type of cut or centering required. The computer then controls the cutting action of the lathe as required in order to produce the finished product. The latest lathes can have up to four spindles to perform multiple jobs simultaneously, which reduces production time and improves productivity accordingly.

CNC lathes are typically equipped with three jaw hydraulic chucks. Work holding is accomplished with hard jaws or bored soft jaws. Lathes can also be equipped with a collet chuck. This allows for variable size and precision holding without the need for soft jaw boring. When a lathe is equipped with a collet chuck, it may require a change to the draw bar that connects 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.

A skilled operator is still required for a CNC lathe, despite all the advances in computer technology. 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. The blueprint is then analysed and converted into the programming required to control the lathe. 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 are often used on hard materials such as metal, that require the material to be processed, usually through turning 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. They are commonly used in light, medium and heavy engineering shops for creating many of the objects we see in everyday use. 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

CNC Lathes have rapidly replaced the older manual lathes due to their ease of programming and operation. 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 of the key benefits are reduced production time, reduced inventory and reduced set up times. With the continuing rise in demand for engineered parts, CNC lathes ultimately give higher production volumes, with greater precision and fewer errors.

Summary

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

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