Fanuc mini cnc lathe

Types of Fanuc mini CNC lathes

With the growing trend of small-scale machining companies and startups looking for affordable and space-efficient solutions, the Fanuc mini CNC lathe has gained immense popularity for its reliable machinery and compact size, serving the needs of both new and experienced people in the industry. A mini CNC lathe is controlled by a computer and is a good choice for easy use and fine work. Fanuc is a recognized name in the field of CNC machinery, which makes these lathes dependable, versatile, and precise for many different uses in factories.

• Toolroom CNC lathe: A Fanuc toolroom lathe has CNC features and is used to make small tools, parts, and prototypes. These machines usually have easier-to-learn controls and can also be run manually. This makes them the best starter machines for new operators. They are used in places like repair shops and toolrooms where small and precise metal parts have to be made.
• Benchtop CNC lathe: Mini CNC lathes that fit on the bench are small machines that can be put on a bench or working table. They are good for working on small parts, especially for the electronics and jewelry industries. These machines usually have an easy-to-use interface and can be used for light machining where space is limited.
• Sub-spindle CNC lathe: A mini lathe fanuc with a sub-spindle means there is a smaller spindle inside the main spindle that can hold extra work pieces. This allows for more complex work to be done without changing the setup each time a new piece has to be worked on. These lathes have more productivity and efficiency and are used a lot in making small precision parts for the automotive and electronics industries.
• Fanuc robot lathe machine: A mini CNC lathe machine with a robot in it could have the robots do automatic loading and unloading of parts. Having a robot cut and load the parts makes it into a more open automatic system. With a robot, the CNC machine can make many more parts and work continuously with little downtime. That gives it a lot higher production, and it is perfect for places that make motor parts or need a lot of precision parts in high volumes.

Specification and Maintenance

Specifications of FANUC CNC lathes:

• Workpiece size and weight: The maximum diameter and length of the workpiece that the CNC lathe can process is determined by the bed size and workpiece clamping device.(such as a FANUC RS-200iC/B)
• Spindle and spindle speed: The spindle's diameter, length, and the range of its rotational speeds. The latter determines the materials that can be processed and the machining accuracy.(such as a FANUC M-20iA/200)
• Machining accuracy and tolerance: CNC lathes are usually required to reach machining accuracy within a certain range. For example, some lathes can achieve a cylindrical precision of ±0.01mm and an average surface roughness of Ra0.4 ~ Ra1.6.
• Control system: The control system of CNC lathe includes a numerical control unit, servo system, feedback device, etc. The FANUC CNC lathe is available in different models and configurations of the FANUC control system.

Maintenance

When using and maintaining the mini CNC lathe, users should pay attention to the following:

• Fanuc Cnc lathes are all electric, so don't get the power cords and nozzles wet while cleaning them.
• Always keep the equipment ground wire intact and clean to ensure reliable grounding.
• Before washing the equipment, ensure all air and water valves are closed, and remove all hoses and nozzles from the equipment for cleaning.
• Clean the drip tray and area around the lathe to keep the entire work area free of debris.
• The work platform can be cleaned with a general-purpose cleaner or fume-free acetone, carefully removing any adhesive residue from the platform, tools, and parts.
• Cleaning the parts can be done by using fume-free rubbing alcohol to clean residue on tools and fixtures or by using cutting fluid for lathe lubrication.
• Always check and replace any damaged, missing parts, or hardware, especially those related to machine safety.
• Equipment maintenance and service are completed according to the equipment manual.

Scenarios of FANUC mini CNC lathes

The small CNC lathe machine can be used in manufacturing industries, including aerospace, automotive, medical, and jewelry, to create customized products and perform standard manufacturing tasks.

• Jewelry industry

  In the jewelry industry, the FANUC mini CNC lathe machine is an essential tool for making high-end customized jewelry pieces such as bracelets, rings, earrings, pendants, and watch straps. The CNC lathe machine helps jewelry designers create intricate and delicate designs on jewelry with great precision. It also assists jewelry manufacturers in mass-producing jewelry parts. Moreover, the CNC lathe machine for jewelry can be used to cut, engrave, and create molding on different kinds of materials such as silver, gold, and platinum.

• Medical industry

  In the medical industry, the FANUC CNC mini lathe machine helps create complex medical equipment parts such as orthopedic implants, surgical instruments, and catheters. The CNC machine operates with high precision, enabling it to create medical equipment with tight tolerances that are often required in the medical field. Additionally, the lathe machine creates micro-components that fit easily into different medical devices. It also helps reduce medical equipment manufacturing time and decreases the chances of errors.

• Aerospace industry

  In the aerospace industry, the FANUC mini CNC lathe machine creates crucial parts for different aerospace components such as turbine components, engine parts, and valve housings. The CNC lathe machines also design and manufacture complex aerospace system components, including imbedded threads and groves. Additionally, the CNC lathe machine creates lightweight components while maintaining strength.

• Automotive industry

  In the automotive industry, the FANUC mini CNC lathe machine is used to make various automotive parts such as axles, bushings, and steering columns. The CNC machine is ideal for manufacturing automotive industry parts since it works accurately and produces quickly. Moreover, the lathe machine fabricates replacement parts for vintage cars and designs custom automotive parts for sports and luxury cars. The device can also be used to engrave automotive IDs and trim levels.

• Electronics industry

  In the electronics industry, the CNC lathe machine helps manufacture precision electronic components such as connectors, housings, and sockets. Additionally, the device fabricates specialized electronics like customized circuit boards and sensors. It is also used to make mini-electronic components like switches and relays and engrave electronic part numbers.

Choosing a mini CNC lathe machine

Fanuc mini CNC lathes are offered in a wide range of specifications. The following parameters will help to narrow down the options for choosing appropriate machines in bulk:

• Machinable materials

  Identify the materials that the target consumers work with, including their preferred choices. The CNC lathe machine's design and capabilities will be affected by the materials it can work with, so select one with compatible options.

• Workpiece diameter and length

  Determine the target market's common workpiece sizes. If only small workpieces need to be machined, a compact machine may suffice. However, if there is a possibility of working with larger parts in the future, choose a model that supports greater workpiece dimensions.

• Tooling system

  The tooling requirements of the target market are also an important factor to consider. Research what kind of tools most users need and how often they need to change tools. An automated system would generally be more appealing to end-users compared to manual options, as it would boost productivity.

• Market trends

  It may also help to investigate the market trends regarding the type of machines that most people are currently using. For example, if the vast majority of people are already using Fanuc CNC lathes, it would be a lot easier to appeal to customers who want to upgrade to a higher model instead of an indifferent machine. Furthermore, the resale value of a machine can also be determined.

• Popular brands

  Some brands are more popular than others, and this may also affect the easier resale value as they are more in demand. It may be worth researching the brand's after-sales service as well, as it will make it easy to sell to buyers.

• Universal features

  Consider some important features that most people care about when using a CNC lathe machine, such as easy programming, faster cutting speeds, integrated systems, flexible operations, increased automation, and precise control capabilities. The more of these features the machine has to offer, the more it is likely to be used in a variety of industries and applications, which increases its appeal to end-users in need of a CNC milling machine.

• Storage and Specs

  When purchasing in bulk, it is also important to consider the place to store the machines, as well as their specifications. Check if there is a need to store any additional parts or equipment, along with the lathe machines. If there is a storage limitation, investing in a machine with a more compact design or one that doesn't require additional equipment could be the more practical option for businesses.

Fanuc mini CNC lathe Q & A

Q1. What are the reasons to use a CNC lathe?

A1. A CNC lathe offers various benefits to the user. First, it works with different types of metals, such as aluminum, brass, stainless steel, alloy steel, and titanium. Second, it has an automated system that works independently without human operation after programming. Third, a CNC lathe can produce thousands of identical pieces per day, which is excellent for mass production.

Q2. Does a CNC lathe only cut materials?

A2. No. A CNC machine can cut, drill, groove, polish, thread, and face various materials. Advanced CNC machines can even perform intricate and complex tasks.

Q3. What types of FANUC CNC lathes exist?

A3. The CNC lathe machine comes in different types. The mini CNC lathes are suitable for smaller-scale production, and the standard ones work for larger projects. Other models include the horizontal CNC lathe, the tube CNC lathe for pipe sections, and the multitasking CNC machine that can do numerous jobs alone.

Q4. What parts of a CNC lathe does one program?

A4. The basic parts of the object need programming first. These include the part's diameter, cavity, diameter of the cavity, threading, grooving, tapering, concentric cavities, and helical grooves. Other advanced operations involve cutting a circular disk, polishing, rounding an object, and making complex patterns and designs.