Computer numerical controlled machining (CNC) has revolutionized modern manufacturing processes by delivering unparalleled levels of precision, repeatability, and efficiency across many industries. CNC machines enable the production of complex and intricate parts, and they achieve tolerances measured in microns, or thousandths of a millimeter. CNC machining utilizes highly automated computerized controls to guide the movement of various tools in the fabrication of parts from raw materials. CNC machining includes various types of CNC machines, each used for specialized tasks. Six of the most common types are CNC milling machines, CNC lathe machines, CNC plasma cutters, CNC router machines, CNC laser cutters, and CNC electric discharge machines.
About CNC Lathe Machines
CNC lathe machines come in various sizes, from tiny CNC machines used by watchmakers and jewelers to full-form lathes that are much larger, some of which can fill an entire room.
CNC lathe machines can be used to work on a wide variety of materials, including wax for creating prototypes, wood, plastics like acrylics and Teflon, and various metals like aluminum, brass, and stainless steel.
Why Use a CNC Lathe Machine?
A computer numerical control lathe machine primarily functions by rotating a workpiece while a cutting tool removes material to shape the workpiece into the desired form. This enables the lathe to create a variety of cylindrical shapes including shafts, pipes, and other components. Lathes can perform cutting operations line turning, facing, grooving, and parting. Lathes can drill holes and create bores along the center axis of the workpiece. They can create both internal and external threads.
CNC lathe machines are used to produce a variety of parts, including automotive parts like engine components and gears, aerospace components like engine parts, turbine elements, and other precision parts, medical devices like surgical tools and implants, and consumer goods like metal parts for appliances and watch parts.
The Advantages of Using CNC Lathe Machining
CNC lathe machining offers many advantages compared to using conventional machines:
- No need for highly skilled hands-on machine operators; one handling the lathe and the other controlling the material.
- Fewer human errors.
- Full automation allows for easier and quicker work.
- High versatility, enabling the production of all kinds of products and parts.
- Extremely high production precision and accuracy.
- Significant cost efficiency, including low setup costs, higher speed and production levels, lower production costs, and less waste.
- Improved worker safety.
CNC machining offers significant advantages compared to traditional production methods. CNC machine operations don’t depend on the endurance of employees. Production processes offer high speed and production capacity, and production is highly scalable. It also offers design retention.
Choose a Highly Regarded CNC Machining Company
Contact Components By Design, based in Charlotte, N.C. Components By Design, Inc. has over 15 years of experience with CNC routers and CAD / CAM software and exists to help your complex projects become simple. We offer a complete range of CNC routing services. From simple parts to complicated 3D machining, we can take on any project to add value to your product. We are experienced in machining parts from panel material and solid wood, PVC extruded sheets, acrylics, aluminum, and solid surfaces. Our CNC solutions are well-suited for cabinet makers, architectural woodworkers, building suppliers, sign makers, plastic fabricators, and more. If you can think it, we can make it.