Turning machine

Types of turning machines

A turning machine, also known as a lathe, is a type of machine tool that turns the workpiece at a higher speed while cutting, sanding, drilling, or other activities to shape the material. It is widely used in woodwork and metalwork. There are many turning machines for sale for different applications and features.

• CNC turning machine

  The most popular type of modern lathe is the CNC turning machine, which uses a computer to control the whole process. The device cuts the wood or metal at different angles with incredible accuracy. The woodworking CNC lathe creates artistic furnishings and architectural decorations, while the CNC metal turning machine creates precision automotive parts and engineering components.

• Automatic turning machine

  An automatic turning machine offers a straightforward working process. The operator will only need to load the raw material at the beginning of the procedure, and the machine will do the rest. Such devices are more common in workplaces where a large number of identical parts need to be made every day. They boost productivity and cut labor expenses. However, an automatic turning machine does not provide the flexibility to create parts in small quantities with different specifications.

• Turret lathe

  A turret lathe is a type of lathe machine that can make many identical complex parts. It features a turret with several tool holders. The operator places the raw material in the machine and then mounts various tools on the turret to carry out different activities without having to change the position of the workpiece.

• Slant bed lathe machine

  The bed of a slant lathe machine is at an angle, with the headstock placed on the top side of the inclined bed. Its design allows gravity to remove any coolant or chips generated during machining operations down into the chip pan. This prevents any debris buildup on the bed, thereby facilitating easier cleaning and maintenance of the machine.

• Bench lathe machine

  The design of the bench lathe machine allows users to place it on a benchtop or any other sturdy surface while using it. This provides stability and prevents unnecessary movement during operation. Some machines include a small stand for easier transportation.

• Gap lathe machine

  A gap lathe machine features a large gap cast into its bed just ahead of the toolpost. This provides more flexibility in machining larger-diameter workpieces. It also makes it easier to reach the toolpost while setting up or servicing the machine.

Specifications & Maintenance of Turning Machines

The specifications of a metal turning machine vary depending on the model and type. Here are some typical specifications.

• Maximum Diameter and Length

  The maximum diameter and length show the biggest and longest workpieces a lathe can turn. For example, a certain machine may have a maximum diameter of 600 mm and a maximum length of 1200 mm. It can turn the diameter of workpieces up to 600 mm and their lengths up to 1200 mm.

• Spindle Speed

  The spindle speed is the turning speed of the spindle. This speed affects the cutting speed of workpieces. For instance, the spindle speed of a certain turning machine may have 12 grades ranging from 50 to 2000 RPM.

• Motor Power

  The motor power of a turning machine is usually in the range of 1.5 to 10 kW. The higher the motor power is, the greater the torque it can provide. Therefore, it can handle workpieces of different materials and hardness.

• Tool Holder

  The tool holder of a turning machine may adopt an automatic or manual system. Besides, the holder can support a single or multiple tools. For example, a certain holder can support up to four tools at the same time.

• Control System

  The control system allows machine operators to plan and control the turning work of the workpieces. For example, a turning machine may adopt a CNC system with various functions like simulation and remote control.

Maintaining a turning machine can keep it in good condition. Regular maintenance can also prevent the most common problems of turning machines. Here are some simple and practical maintenance tips.

• Clean the machine thoroughly and remove all the deposits on its surfaces daily.
• Remove the cutting tool and clean its mounting surface. Apply lubricant to the tool holder before reinstalling the tool.
• Check electrical cables and connections weekly. Ensure bolts and clamps are secure, and there are no signs of wear or damage.
• Check the level and quality of hydraulic oil monthly. Add more oil or change the oil to keep the machine working well.
• Inspect the drive belts and chains quarterly. Replace them If they are loose, worn out, or damaged.
• Lubricate moving parts overtime. Apply grease or oil to bearings, slides, and the rack.
• Develop a machine maintenance schedule. Repair turning machines on this schedule to prevent breakdowns and prolong service life.

Scenarios of using turning machines

CNC wood-turning machines can make different types of furniture pieces, decorations, and constructions that use wood. Business buyers can use this information to understand the capabilities of a wood-turning machine and how it can create various wood products in the market.

• Furniture: The CNC lathe for wood can be used to make different parts of furniture, like legs for tables, chairs, or cabinets, as well as armrests, pillars, and decorative elements. These usually have unique shapes, details, or patterns.
• Architectural elements: the woodturning machine can create architectural elements like columns, balusters, newels, or handrails. Custom-designed CNC architectural elements can add a touch of elegance and character to a space.
• Garden/Outdoor products: A CNC wood-turning machine can produce outdoor or garden products such as fountains, flower stands, fences, and pergolas.
• Sports products: The turning machine is also used to make sports products. For example, the baseball bat CNC machine creates baseball bats, while other machines create bats used for cricket. Other products include gym handles and rackets.
• Gift items: The turning machines can create gift items such as wooden cups, bangles, rings, pen holders, jewelry holders, planters, rolling pins, salt and pepper shakers, and candle holders, among many others. Most of these items can come with intricate and stylish designs, like whirls and grooves.
• Musical instruments: One popular application of a wood-turning machine is producing musical instruments such as flutes and clarinets. Other wood musical instruments include the oboe, drumsticks, trombone, and more.
• Kitchen Accessories: Turning Machines also produce various kitchen accessories such as wooden spoons, rolling pins, cutting boards, spice racks, salad bowls, and racks, among others. Most of these come with unique engravings and designs.
• Combining materials: Some machined turning products will have different materials. For example, wood and resin, where the wood will have some parts that are resin, or colored glass and wood, where the glass will have different designs and colors that compliment the wood piece.

How to choose turning machines

Many shops find it helpful to have a wood lathe machine because it adds versatility to their work. When buying a lathe for wood or for any other material, here are a few features to focus on.

• Understand the workpiece requirements

  Know the diameter and length of the workpiece one needs to turn. Figure out all specific needs before shopping for a lathe. With this knowledge, it's easy to find a machine with compatible turning capacity. Take note of the maximum diameter over the bed, as well as the maximum turning length, which is usually the distance between the headstock and the tailstock.

• Consider the engineering material

  The materials one usually works with impact the choice of lathe material. Some machines are made with cast iron or steel for sturdy performance. The headstock, bed, tailstock, base, and the part that supports the workpiece are usually made with these high-density metals to keep the machine stable while working.

  Some machines are lighter and made with aluminum alloy to easily relocate the machine from one place to another.

• Machine size and weight

  A small benchtop machine is easy to handle and doesn't require much space to work in. It will also be lighter, so it makes sense to choose it if the overall weight is a concern. On the other hand, a heavy-duty machine is large and cumbersome because it has a sturdy frame needed to work with a higher horsepower.

• Power

  Woodworking lathes need enough horsepower to turn different wood densities smoothly. Higher horsepower means the machine can handle a wider range of materials.

• Speed range and control

  The lathe must have variable control over the spindle speeds to work with different materials and achieve desired finishing. A digital display shows the exact RPM and makes it easy to set speeds.

• Chuck type and number of included chucks

  A lathe usually comes pre-installed with a chuck. It can be a three-jaw or four-jaw chuck, and it may or may not be universal. Consider the type of chuck and how many the machines offer.

• Tool rest

  The tool rest is the support for the tools while shaping the workpiece. The height, length, and quality of the material the tool rest is made of will vary, depending on the lathe machine. When buying a lathe, consider the tool rest and whether it is helpful for the turning tasks at hand.

Turning machine Q&A

Q1: What are the latest developments in CNC turning machine technology?

A1: The latest trends in CNC machines for turning include automation systems like robots for loading and unloading parts, advanced monitoring systems for predictive maintenance, and more environmentally friendly designs to reduce energy consumption and waste.

Q2: What kind of materials can a CNC turning machine work with?

A2: CNC lathes can handle a wide range of materials, including plastics such as ABS and nylon, metals such as aluminum, brass, copper, carbon steel, and stainless steel, as well as other materials like wood and composites.

Q3: Are there specific safety precautions when operating a CNC turning machine?

A3: Yes, it's crucial to follow safety guidelines like wearing appropriate PPE (personal protective equipment), ensuring all guards and safety devices are in place, and receiving proper training before operating any CNC machinery.

Q4: Can a CNC turning machine perform milling operations as well?

A4: No, a simple CNC lathe turning machine cannot perform milling operations. However, more complex models like CNC multitasking machines or CNC turning centers with integrated milling capabilities can.

Q5: Can a custom CNC turning machine be built to fit specific production needs?

A5: Yes, it's possible to design and build custom CNC machines that meet specific production requirements in terms of size, capacity, automation level, and other technical features.