CNC lathe machines, they’re steeped in antiquity, the traditional lathe dates all the way back to Ancient Egypt. In those days, this two-manned tool was used for just basic carpentry tasks; however its function has since been upgraded with advances tailor-made for modern manufacturing. Automated processes and cutting edge technology such as Computer Numerical Control (CNC) can guarantee outstanding precision levels in today’s high paced environments.
Are you curious about what computer numerical control is, and how it can impact the function of a lathe? If so, we are here to provide all the details on why investing in CNC Lathe machines may be right for your manufacturing needs. To ensure that you make an informed decision when selecting which machine best suits your requirements, our guide will shed light on everything from ‘what is a CNC lathe?’ to what manufacturers can use them to create.
What Is A CNC Lathe?
Featuring a stationary cutting tool and central spindle, CNC lathes are powered by digital instructions sent from a computer. By programming multiple steps at one time, it is possible to keep the material in place for all necessary cuts without having to manually move it—ensuring correct positioning every single time.
A basic CNC lathe functions with two axes, rotating the material it is cutting. This rotation process is typically known as “turning,” so CNC lathes are generally referred to as CNC turning machines. If a machine has more than 2 axes and maybe an additional Y-axis or sub-spindle, it will be called a CNC Turning Center instead of CNC Turning Machine.
How A Company Can Benefit With CNC Lathe
Investing in a computer numerical control lathe over its manual counterpart comes with immense benefits. It is much more precise since it follows code rather than user input, thus decreasing the chances of error and material wastage during production. The higher accuracy also results in cost-efficiency as it eliminates any mistakes that may be made by human operators on manual lathes.
For the ultimate efficiency, one operator can manage multiple CNC lathes at once, something that’s impossible with manual machines. And despite the higher upfront cost, CNC Lathes are more economical in terms of staffing. Not only do you get much faster production times, but all products created will be identical thanks to computer numerical control. And as long as you’re using CNC preventative maintenance, these CNC machines can last for a long time.
What Products Can Be Built?
With CNC lathes, you can create the same products as manual machines – only faster and more efficiently. Automotive creation, electronics, medical equipment and sporting goods are just a few areas that benefit from precision parts machined with these powerful machines; even intricate firearm manufacturing pieces could be created using them.
From baseball bats and cue sticks, to coffee tables and chair legs, CNC lathes can craft a variety of products from start to finish. Even musical instruments are not out of reach – while they may not be able to string up that guitar just yet, CNC lathes can certainly tackle everything else when it comes to creating wooden pieces.
The Price of a CNC Lathe
As previously mentioned, a CNC lathe is an investment. Big, high-tech machinery doesn’t come without a cost. The good news, computer numerical control lathes can quickly pay themselves off with reduced manufacturing time, fewer operatives needed for hire, and decreased mistakes with finished products.
Contact Machine Techs today if you’re still unsure whether a CNC lathe is right for your company or you need advice on choosing between different models of milling machine, lathes, or turning centers. We have a wide selection of CNC lathe machines to choose from.
We’re here to help and consider your manufacturing needs to equip you to make the best choice on your CNC machine investment.
