The Basics Of CNC Lathes14

The Basics of CNC Lathes

To understand how computers have affected the manufacturing industry, one only needs to look at CNC lathes. Requiring minimal supervision and able to perform outside the boundaries of non-computerized equipment, they have changed the face and function of industrial machinery. The lathes come in a wide variety of sizes and abilities, and they are relatively easy to use, both of which have combined to make them the new standard in machining equipment. If you are involved in manufacturing or machining and have wondered why you would need a CNC lathe, taking the time to learn more about them will answer the question.

CNC lathes are lathes that are operated through the use of computer numerical control, meaning they are controlled by a computer that reads a specific type of programming language. With the exception of the computer control, they are much like traditional lathes in terms of how they function. With a basic lathe, the machine turns the work piece, from which pieces are removed with cutting tools like tool bits or drill bits. In the case of the computerized lathe, however, the computer controls the turning and the material removal. The lathe can be programmed either by using the computer interface or by using computer-aided manufacturing programs, in which the model is created and then the file is uploaded to the lathe. A major benefit of this computer control is the ability of even metal lathes to make arcs and curves as easily as making straight lines, as well as the ability to make complex three-dimensional designs. In addition, the number of steps required by human operators is reduced, and the quality and consistency of the final products is increased.

The performance abilities of CNC lathes are unique because of the computer controls. They can be set up as automatic lathes, with lasers and sensors inspecting the final product, which allows them to run without a human operator present. Grouped together in cells, the lathes will each perform part of a multi step operation. If one lathe in the cell breaks, the computer places an alert call to a human operator. While waiting for repairs, the other lathes in the cell continue production up to the step for which the broken lathe is required. The automation of the machining process reduces errors while freeing the human operator to complete other essential tasks.

Although CNC lathes used to be extremely expensive, the prices for them have become much lower in the last few years. Between cheap computer systems, free operating systems and CNC software, and the used models that have become available, the machines have followed the pricing trends of so many other "latest, greatest" tools and toys. Some companies even have desktop models available at prices that are easily affordable to a hobbyist. Their ease of use combined with their incredible precision makes them nearly a necessity in machining and manufacturing.