Vertical and horizontal CNC lathes
There are many types of CNC lathes, which can be divided into open loop control systems, semi closed loop control systems, and closed loop control systems according to their control methods. According to processing technology, it is divided into ordinary CNC lathes, multi-functional CNC lathes, and turning machining centers. According to the configuration form of the spindle, it is divided into horizontal CNC lathes and vertical CNC lathes.
In a vertical CNC lathe, the workpiece rotates in an upright position, and its spindle can cut at difficult to reach angles and positions. A vertical CNC lathe can be used to handle large and heavy materials, which are loaded with cranes. Another advantage of a vertical CNC lathe is that gravity always favors its operation, which means that the workpiece is always stable throughout the entire operation process of the lathe. This can achieve better spindle movement and accurate cutting.
The main feature of a vertical CNC lathe is that the workbench is in a horizontal plane, and the installation and adjustment of the workpiece are relatively convenient. The workbench is supported by guide rails, with good rigidity and stable workpiece. There are several tool holders and they can be quickly changed. Vertical CNC lathes belong to large mechanical equipment and are used to process large and heavy workpieces with large radial dimensions and relatively small axial dimensions, with complex shapes. For example, cylindrical surfaces, end faces, conical surfaces, cylindrical holes, conical holes, and other workpieces of various types of discs, wheels, and sleeves can be processed using optional devices such as thread development, spherical surface turning, profiling, milling, and grinding.
Due to the vertical layout of the spindle of a vertical CNC lathe and the installation of a circular worktable with workpieces in a horizontal plane, the clamping and alignment of workpieces are more convenient. In addition, this layout reduces the load on the spindle and bearings, so the vertical CNC lathe can maintain the accuracy of processing workpieces for a longer period of use.
Horizontal CNC lathe is a common type of CNC lathe equipment in the workshop. It rotates a specific metal workpiece in a cylindrical manner, and when the solid rotates, the horizontal CNC lathe uses tools to manipulate the material to give it the desired shape and shape. Compared with vertical CNC lathes, this type of machine tool also occupies a larger area. Even the chuck in a horizontal CNC lathe can place objects vertically. Usually, this type of machine is used for lighter materials.
A horizontal CNC lathe does not have a fixed spindle, but instead uses various tool heads installed on the horizontal tool bar. These machine tools can adapt to various shapes and sizes, and can maintain the cleanliness of the workpiece during the processing under the action of gravity. Most horizontal CNC lathes have the ability to be equipped with automatic bar feeder. Horizontal CNC lathes are widely used in high-precision machining operations and come in various sizes and designs.
Horizontal CNC lathes can be used to cut cylindrical shapes or decorative contours of square billets, such as those seen on table legs, lamp racks, and other objects. Precision engineering parts (such as engine parts, spherical joints, medical equipment, and aircraft parts) can also be rotated and processed on a horizontal CNC lathe.