C axis cnc lathe

Types of C axis CNC lathes

C axis CNC lathes use a controller that shows the lathes cutting tools with various configurations and angles. Generally, C axis meaning in CNC is an additional rotational axis. These types of machines are now prevalent in the metalworking industry because they enable intricate contouring and threading to be done quickly and precisely without needing manual intervention. Workpieces can be rotated at high speeds, allowing for rapid drilling and milling operations.

C axis CNC lathes can be low, medium, or high-budget models. Here is a brief explanation of each type:

• Low-budget C axis CNC lathes: Simple models that may be suitable for small businesses or home workshops where they cannot spend a lot of money on machinery but still need some kind of mechanical device for working with metals.
• Medium-budget C axis CNC lathe machines: Offer more features and better build quality compared to low-budget models, making them suitable for semi-industrial or smaller-scale production environments where medium-sized budgets can be set aside for purchasing machinery.
• High-budget C axis CNC lathe machines: High-quality professional-grade equipment designed to withstand heavy use in demanding industrial settings where high-budged investments are routinely made by companies seeking top performance from their production tools.

Some people or business owners may be more familiar with live-tool CNC lathes. These lathes can also be called C-axis or C-axis CNC lathes. In a way, an extensive discussion on this type of lathe machine has already indicated that C-axis CNC means that there are additional rotational axes. Other types of rotational axis lathe machines include the A-axis CNC lathe machine and the B-axis CNC lathe machine. The A axis in a CNC machine refers to another rotational axis, whereas the B axis means that there is a direct link between the workpiece and the tool.

Specifications and maintenance of C axis CNC lathes

Specifications

• Size

  The compact C-axis CNC lathe normally has an overall length, height, and width of approximately 3,500 mm, 1,800 mm, and 1,500 mm. It occupies a standard factory floor space. Bench-top models that reduce the size for small workshops are around 900 mm in length.

• Net weight

  The machine weighs 3,000 kg. The heavy weight and metal casting provide good stability when it is operating at high speeds. The C axis CNC lathe with the live tool has a little more weight because of the accessories included with it.

• Spindle

  The spindle has the capacity to clamp workpieces with a maximum diameter of 10 mm. The working speeds vary between 45 and 4,000 rpm. Its flexibility enables users to select the most suitable speed for various machining requirements. A powerful CNC spindle motor with 7.5 kW uses high torque for increased productivity. The spindle has direct-drive or belt-drive transmission modes to suit different processing needs.

• Cutting tool holder

  The cutting tool holder can accommodate 12 different kinds of tools to meet diverse processing needs. It has a tool changing time of 2 seconds, which enhances processing efficiency significantly. An 8-tools holder is also available for customers to choose according to their actual needs.

Maintenance

Routine maintenance will keep the machine in good condition and extend its useful life. The following maintenance tips can keep the lathe functional and efficient.

• The basic maintenance needs for any C axis CNC lathe are regular cleaning and lubrication. Remove the workpiece and clean the machine thoroughly, paying close attention to the cooling system and lubricant to prevent any debris from getting inside the machine.
• CNC lathes have many moving parts, so cleaning and lubricating the moving parts is mandatory. This process provides the machine with enough support for it to move smoothly and efficiently. The type of lubricant used will vary according to the feature and specifications of the pieces being lubricated.
• Check all fastening parts, including bolts and nuts to see if they are firm and secure. Regularly inspect them to avoid loss or damage to the machine bed, slide rails, tool posts, worktables, etc. Replace them when the inspection shows any signs of damage.

Scenarios of C Axis CNC Lathes

The C Axis CNC lathe has numerous practical applications in different industries because it offers high efficiency and production capacity when working on workpieces of varying materials. The CNC machining tool is widely used in all manufacturing industries that need to mass produce precise cylindrical-shaped products or parts with complex geometries that require minimal tolerances.

One of the most common usage scenarios of the C Axis CNC lathe is in the watch application industry, where it's used to produce precise watch components.

Medical industries also greatly rely on this specific type of CNC lathe machine to create components like surgical instruments, implants, valves, and other medical device parts.

As mentioned, the C Axis CNC lathe machine is most commonly used in the metal industry to create barrels, valve bodies, cylinder heads, hydraulic components, and other pipeline accessory parts. Some of these accessories include coupling threads that connect to CNC lathe machines; hence, metal pipelines require an accurate and efficient C Axis CNC lathe to ensure precision when creating these parts.

Aerospace manufacturers use the C Axis CNC lathe to create lightweight yet sturdy components. These include telescope tubes, camera tubes, drone parts, axle tubes, aircraft engine parts, and other lightweight instrument parts.

Generally, any industry that requires machining operations on cylindrical workpieces, such as wood, plastic, and metal industries, may use the tool to create pipe fittings, plumbing fixtures, and other rotary elements.

How to choose C axis CNC lathes

When purchasing a C axis CNC turning lathe, there are many factors to consider, such as the size, spindle speed, control system, brand, service, and so on.

• Workpiece capacity and size

  First, C axis CNC lathe buyers should determine the size and weight of the workpieces. Then, they should choose a lathe with the capacity and range to ensure a proper fit for their future applications.

• Spindle speed

  It is important to choose a CNC lathe with an appropriate spindle speed for the materials. If an unsuitable one is chosen, it may lead to poor-cutting performance, reduced efficiency, and increases in operating costs.

• Control system

  Choose a control system that can handle the desired complexity and features of the lathe. The most common control systems are Siemens, Fanuc, Mitsubishi, and Num. Also, buyers should consider the ease of use, programming capability, and reliability of the control system.

• Machine tool brand

  Workpiece quality directly affects finished workpieces. Buyers should choose a reputable machine tool brand with high-quality, reliable, and well-functioning products.

• Technical service

  Buyers should consider technical support and service. They should find out if the supplier offers installation, commissioning, training, maintenance, and repair services. A helpful customer support team can also assist buyers in getting the most out of their machines.

C axis cnc lathe Q&A

Q1: What is the difference between C-axis CNC lathes and typical CNC lathes?

A1: C-axis CNC lathes use a digital control system to make more precise cuts than standard CNC lathes. While a standard CNC lathe may have only one spindle and head that cuts in one direction, a C-axis lathe can have multiple spindles and heads that can cut in both horizontal and vertical directions. This means that the C-axis CNC lathe can complete in one machining operation what a standard CNC lathe may require two or three separate machining operations to accomplish.

Q2: Does the C-axis CNC lathe have any limitations?

C-axis CNC lathes cannot perform multiple operations simultaneously. Because of their design, there is only one cutting tool station and spindle. Adding more cutting tool stations would make the CNC machine more complex, hence more expensive. Tools can be quickly and easily changed, however, to include other tools.

Q3: Can a CNC C-axis turn chucking be done in a batch process?

A3: Yes. Because of its high speed, this type of CNC machine is well-suited for machining operations done in batches. The machine can quickly change tools and set-ups and has high production efficiency and processing speed.

Q4: Do C-axis CNC lathes require special programming skills?

A4: No. These types of CNC machines use G-code and conversational programming, which is the same as other types of CNC machines. The operator requires only basic training in how to use the machine's software and may not need to know anything about the programming at all.