Turning is one of the fundamental engineering tasks that are mainly symmetrical cylindrical metal fabrication processes. To become the shape we want by turning is a technique that requires high precision and expertise. Otherwise, it’s easy to make mistakes. Makes someone invent a machine (Machine Tools) that helps in turning more precisely. And even faster, that’s a CNC lathe.
CNC lathes are
CNC lathe (Computer Numerical Control) is an automatic machine that operates with a computer system. To produce material parts to the desired size and shape by turning. Suitable for precision or complex turning operations.
Moreover because of computerized control This allows CNC lathes to go beyond the limits of traditional machines, with a fine control resolution of 0.001 mm. in addition to the resolution We can also get many pieces of work very quickly.
In addition to lathes, CNC systems are connected to a wide variety of machines. Whether it’s a printer, grinder or even a cutting machine For more beautiful and complex parts, check out the world-class CNC lathe DMG Mori here.
Figure 1 Inside the article CNC lathe
Basic structure of CNC lathes
In terms of structure, CNC lathes are similar to hand lathes. Or a manual lathe quite enough, but there are main differences. in the control of work and measurement The CNC lathe has been added in the following sections. for more accurate measurements and creation of parts
drive system It consists of two main systems: the main transmission system and the axis drive system.
– Transmission system CNC lathes use servo motors, which can control rotation speed, torque, position according to requirements.
- spindle drive system In this system, a stepper or stepping motor is used to work with the distance control system to control the axis to cut various workpieces.
Clamping system The clamping system of CNC lathes has two parts: the part used to hold the workpiece. and the part used to hold the tool
– Workpiece clamping system or chuck (JAW) serves to hold the workpiece firmly. make it possible to decorate Turning workpieces smoothly which this chuck has both a normal type that is not decorated in any shape or a special type that is used to produce a small amount of work. but has a high uniqueness
– Tool holding system (Turret) Tool holding system This is another thing that makes CNC different from Manual turning because the Turret consists of a large number of cutting tools. Can be rotated to use in various ways can be done according to the computer’s command without having to replace the cutting head by hand
Measuring systems Measuring systems for CNC machines are equipped with a linear scale, a high-resolution linear distance measuring device (up to 0.001 mm) or other devices of similar capability. to measure the distance of the workpiece or used to perform calculations in various functions for use of CNC machines
Electrical System Most CNC lathes have a 3-phase, 380-volt electrical system. Except for a MINI CNC machine that uses 220 volts of electricity.
Control system CNC lathes are all controlled via computer by using G Code and M Code to input data. which can be controlled from a simple movement to adjusting the details of turning
The CNC control system can be further programmed by writing code. At present, it is popular to write in CAD (Computer Aided Design) programs, both 2D CAD and 3D CAD, and then use CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) type programs to customize to suit the job.
lathe
Basic Operations of CNC Lathes
The working principle of CNC lathes is different from other lathes. Because there is a computer involved. We have to rely on people with knowledge of machine language. or programs as much as possible, with the following functions:
The user enters commands into the system using the commands that the machine understands (G Code, M Code) via the keyboard. or other input devices such as G00 X15 Y30 is a command for the cutting tool (Cutting Tool) to move in position X = 15 and Y = 30 from point 00.
Commands are sent through the control system through the motors and amplifiers. in order to have enough signal level in all parts
The commanded motor operates to move the slider at the values specified above. as well as to control the speed of rotation appropriately
The measuring system sends a signal to the control system. that the cutter must be moved in which direction how much distance If it is a detailed work, the cutting device may be programmed. for more fluid work
The machine operates according to the commands entered.
Advantages of CNC lathes
CNC lathes are different from conventional machining in many ways. The CNC lathe has the following advantages:
get a job with detail effective Because CNC lathes have distance measurement and computer control. Make it a higher resolution than making it by hand.
get a standard job always the same quality Because CNC lathes have no symptoms of fatigue, falling force, or miscalculation from the original.
Takes up less space to work can work in a variety of Working with CNC lathes, the main thing is to use only the operator to write the instructions to produce the workpiece. which can control the diversity Including the resolution by using a program to reduce the use of labor in production. The main labor of CNC machines is only the programmer or the commander. No expert needed