Driven tools for cnc lathes

Types of driven tools for CNC lathes

CNC (computerized numerical control) lathes are excellent for making precise cuts on various materials. They can be equipped with various driven tools for CNC lathes that make different types of cuts and increases the machine's versatility. Driven tools are tool attachments that are powered directly by the CNC machine. Here are some of them:

• Live tooling

  Live tools are cutting tools powered by an integral electric motor or by the spindle's rotary power through an interchangeable clutch. They include facing mills, boring bars, internal-taper tools, thread cutters, and contour mills. The tool's selection depends on the workpiece's contour, material, and dimensions. One common characteristic of all die tools is they all support rotary motion, which enables cutting along fixed or variable paths.

• Thread whirling tools

  Thread whirling live Tools can be used in a CNC lathe to create complex threads in a workpiece. They are also capable of producing internal or external threads, including straight threads and tapered threads. Furthermore, these tools can cut multiple threads simultaneously, thus reducing cycle times, which is one of the reasons why they are frequently used in the medical industry.

• Drill taps

  Drill taps combine tapping with drilling in a single tool. They are also known as tap drills. They are used to create threads in tapped holes using a single tool and reduce the number of tool changes during machining. When machining a workpiece, drill taps can also reduce machining time and increase efficiency by eliminating the need for separate tapping and drilling operations.

• Tap Tools

  These cutting tools are used to create internal threads in a pre-drilled hole. They can come in different sizes, types, and configurations to produce various thread forms and pitches.

• Milling Tools

  Milling tools for CNC lathe machines can come in various shapes and sizes. They include face mills, shoulder mills, end mills, ball end mills, contour mills, thread mills, and more. Milling tools can be single-point or multi-point, and they are usually made of high-speed steel or carbide.

Specification & Maintenance

Understanding the specifications of the CNC lathe driven tools and their maintenance requirements is important for making an informed purchase. Here's a breakdown of key specifications along with their respective tool maintenance requirements:

• Compatible Material

  Specification:

  Each CNC driven tool is designed to work with specific materials such as wood, metal, plastic, or composite. Using a tool with an incompatible material can result in poor performance, damage, or product failure.

  Maintenance:

  To maintain the performance of the driven tool, it is important to use the recommended type and quality of the driven tool material.

• Tool Holder

  Specification:

  Driven tools have different types of tool holders, such as ER collets, quick-change holders, or ISO holders. Their size, style, and compatibility with the CNC machine spindle should be matched to ensure a secure fit.

  Maintenance:

  Users should regularly inspect the tool holder for signs of wear or damage and clean it to remove debris or lubricate it. Also, they should ensure that the driven tool holder is correctly compatible with the driven tool and firmly installed.

• Gear Ratio

  Specification:

  Driven tools have different gear ratios, which affect the speed and torque output of the tool. Users need to choose the right gear ratio according to the processing requirements and material characteristics to achieve optimal processing results.

  Maintenance:

  The user will choose the proper gear ratio driving tool according to the processed material and demands. During use, pay attention to the operating status of the tool and the machine and make timely adjustments to the gear ratio to adapt to different processing requirements.

• Power Requirements

  Specification:

  The driven tools for CNC lathes have specific power requirements, such as horsepower (HP) or kilowatts (kW). Their machine spindle must be matched to ensure adequate power delivery for smooth operation.

  Maintenance:

  Users need to ensure that the power requirements of the driven tool are matched to the machine's spindle. Also, they should monitor the tool's power output and operating status during use, ensuring that it works in the proper power range to avoid overload or underpower conditions.

• Cutting Inserts

  Specification:

  The type and specification of the cutting insert determine the cutting geometry, coating, and material compatibility. Choosing the right cutting insert for the machining application is necessary for optimal performance and tool life.

  Maintenance:

  Users should regularly check the condition of the cutting inserts to ensure they are in good condition. Also, they should replace or repair the inserts when they are worn or damaged. Additionally, they should pay attention to the matching of the cutting inserts and the driven tool to ensure that the compatibility and working efficiency are optimal.

Applicable scenarios of driven tools for CNC lathes

Machines make a wide variety of things with the help of driven tools for CNC lathes. These tooling systems are great for precision machining and their efficiency, which is handy in a lot of different industries.

• Manufacturing industry: In the world of machine-making, driven tools that make things by themselves are really important. Parts like complicated metal ones used in cars or planes can be made with precision using things like high-speed electric chucks and back-end chucks. And with a driven tool holder, it can hold an electric chuck.
• Aerospace industry: The space plane business needs special tools that can be driven by a CNC lathe. These tools need to be able to handle and process complex materials with high precision, which is required in their industry. The driven tool holders, for example, need to meet the specific needs of space industry parts. That includes things like being made of super-strong metals and having driven tool holders that are precise and reliable. Tooling systems that have a back-end drive are used for space planes. Space-borne things must be well-made, so a back-end drive is necessary to do this for the quality of the space-carrying stuff.
• Medical industry: In the medical world, electric drive tools for lathes play a big part. Driven tools are used a lot, like in making bone screws, dental implants, surgical instruments, and orthopedic devices. For making fine medical parts, it's vital to have precision coupling chucks. A precision coupling chuck holds the instrument and is precise so that the fine details of the medical parts are correct. Also, these tool systems need quick-speed electric chucks that can change tools automatically.
• Automobile industry: The automobile world requires precision and efficiency when processing parts like gears, shafts, and valve bodies. This world uses CNC electric drive tools for lathes a lot. These are driven by having a back-end drive system, which accurately does complex machining like threading, drilling, etc. The automobile parts; the driven tool holders and back-end chucks need to be easy to change quickly. This saves time in the automobile industry, where tasks must be done fast.
• Hardware industry: An electric driving tool for a CNC lathe does a lot of different machining jobs, like cutting, digging, and tapping various hardware parts. It does everything well and precisely, whether it's for locks, fittings, or precision parts. Seeing how much it works with electric chucks shows it's good for making many different kinds of hardware.

How to Choose Driven Tools for CNC Lathes

When choosing driven tools for CNC lathes, it is crucial to consider their compatibility with the current and anticipated CNC lathe machines in the inventory.

Tool holder systems are already mentioned. Focus on the specific applications they will be used for, like contouring, grooving, facing, threading, or other operations that may require driven tools. Different tasks may require specialized tools that are also suited for particular work. Material quality and build construction of the driven tool are also essential. Ensure that the driven tools being considered are made of durable material.

Ensure that the driven tools being considered are made of durable materials, such as premium alloy steel or carbide, with wear-resistant coatings to ensure their extended lifespan and performance. Driver tools must also have an excellent, precise performance to get the desired end products. Examine their quality and performance ratings and choose those with high precision, low runout, and reliable performance. Other users will have already rated their performance and suitability for various tasks.

Suppliers' reputation and reviews are essential for businesses. In a buying decision, make sure that the chosen tools are from suppliers with an excellent reputation and positive reviews. Consider the variety of driven tools available from the supplier to understand what more can be used for other jobs apart from the ones currently under consideration.

Finally, check for availability and ease of ordering of the specific type of driven tool required. The ordering process should be straightforward without complicated procedures. There also should be a good number of support services, including a warranty, after-sales support, and, if possible, an onsite or virtual installation service.

Driven tools for CNC lathes Q&A

Q1: What are some examples of CNC lathe driven tools?

A1: Various types of driven tools are used for CNC lathes. They include thread cutters, fly cutters, end mills, boring tools, form cutters, and angle cutters, among others.

Q2: What are the benefits of CNC lathe driven tools for business buyers?

A2: Driven tools for CNC lathes powered by the spindle of the machine can mill, drill, and tap in a single setup. This eliminates the need for tool changes or part reorientations between operations, reducing production time and increasing efficiency. CNC lathe driven tools provide consistent and accurate machining results due to their automation and programmable features. The tools can produce precise cuts, drills, and milled features, leading to tight tolerances and smooth finish product. The automation of CNC tools reduces the need for manual intervention and lowers dependency on skilled labor, allowing for more straightforward production processes.

Q3: What is the difference between live tooling and non-live tooling in CNC lathes?

A3: Non-live or stationary tooling is tools that are fixed and do not rotate during machining. Non-live tools are usually set up for facing, grooving, turning, and other operations. For example, boring is performed as an operation on the inner diameter of a workpiece but does not involve any tool rotation. Live machining involves driven or rotating tools powered by the spindle of the machine to perform milling, drilling, and tapping. Different arrangements of gears and belts usually drive the live tools.

Q4: What is the maximum speed of driven tools for CNC lathes?

A4: Many suppliers list the maximum speed of driven CNC tools as between 12,000 to 20,000 RPM. However, speed may not be the only factor contributing to effective machining. The driven tool's power, torque, and design are also critical.