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CNC Lathes - Why They Make A Real difference
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 finishedshapes by running a series of these instructions. CNC Lathes are probably themost widely knownuse ofthis particulartechnological innovations. They rotate a piece of material so that it can be cut, sanded, drilled or polished, with the final result being a completed three-dimensional item. In simple terms, CNC lathes are basically the same as a standard turret lathe, but running under computer control.
History
Electric motors started to becomecommonlyavailable in the early 20th century, and this inevitably led to many old fashioned lathes being converted toelectric power.This wasthe initialstage in automating the milling or turning process, It continued rapidlythroughout the 20th centurydue to the fact producers and industrialists increasinglysoughtto increase efficiency and decreasemanufacturing 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.Before this the instructions have to be written using specialist software to encode the required actions.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.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 usually fitted 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 equipping a lathe with a collet chuck, it may be necessary to modify or change the draw bar connecting the actuator to the chuck.
Tool pieces are usually made of hard alloys such as titanium carbide and tungsten carbide, and may vary depending on the material that needs to be processed.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.This is still a much quicker, more productive and more cost effective solution than traditional lathes could achieve.A developer is also required to compile the program commands needed to instruct the equipment in the first place.
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 used to drill precise holes, including exactly centered holes usually in blocks of metal.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.Manual lathes are still used by smaller scale craftsmen, where mass production is not an issue, and where the craftsman's skill is a key part of the production process.
Advantages / Benefits
As a percentage of the market share, CNC lathes have quickly established their dominance.They ensure consistency in quality control and design tolerances, and provide a more rapid turn-round time for complex one-off parts.They are designed to use modern carbide tooling and fully utilize modern processes.Three of the key 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 are a perfect example of man's technological achievements bringing real benefits to the general population.Due to their extensive use these days, goods can be produced faster, more accurately and at a cheaper cost than previously.
About the Author
Phil Marston is the editor of www.lathes-cnc.com . Phil hopes you've enjoyed this article on CNC lathes. - Please feel free to contact him if you need more details.
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