Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-09-15 Origin: Site
High Positioning Accuracy: Servo motors drive precision transmission components such as ball screws, with a minimum movement unit of up to 0.001mm. They can accurately execute the coordinate trajectory set by the program, avoiding manual operation deviations.
Strong Consistency: Once the program is debugged, all workpieces in the same batch are machined according to the same instructions. The fluctuations in dimensional tolerance and geometric tolerance (e.g., roundness, cylindricity) are extremely small. The accuracy grade can stably reach IT6-IT8, and some high-precision models can even achieve IT5.
Error Compensation: High-end CNC systems are equipped with "backlash compensation" and "temperature error compensation" functions, which can automatically correct accuracy deviations caused by wear of transmission components and changes in ambient temperature. Their long-term machining stability is far superior to that of conventional lathes.
Automatic Continuous Machining: After the program is started, the equipment can automatically complete the entire process of "workpiece clamping (with automatic chuck) → tool change (automatic tool change via turret/tool post) → cutting machining → dimension inspection (for models with probes) → workpiece unloading" without manual intervention.
High-Speed Cutting: The CNC system can accurately control spindle speed and feed rate to match the optimal cutting parameters for different materials (steel, aluminum, copper). The maximum spindle speed can reach over 6000r/min (compared to 1000-2000r/min for conventional lathes), and the feed rate is also higher.
Multi-Process Integration: Some CNC horizontal lathes (e.g., those with live tool turrets and C-axis functions) can complete multiple processes such as "external cylindrical turning, end face turning, drilling, tapping, and slot milling" in one go. There is no need to transfer workpieces to other equipment, reducing workpiece turnover time and significantly improving efficiency.
Complex Trajectory Generation: After drawing a 3D model of the workpiece using CAD/CAM software, a CNC program can be automatically generated to control the tool to move along any complex curve (e.g., Archimedean spiral, spline curve), easily machining spherical surfaces, curved surfaces, and special-shaped rotating parts.
Non-Circular Machining Capability: With the C-axis (spindle indexing function) and live tool turret, "turn-mill compound machining" can be realized. For example, keyways can be milled on shaft parts, and eccentric holes can be milled on disk parts without secondary clamping.
Continuous Machining of Multi-Features: The program can arrange multiple process instructions such as "turning → drilling → tapping → milling" at one time. All features of the workpiece can be machined with one clamping, avoiding positioning errors caused by multiple clampings.
Simplified Operation: Operators only need to complete three core steps: "loading the CNC program → clamping the workpiece → starting the equipment". The subsequent machining process is automatically completed by the system without manual intervention.
Multi-Machine Supervision: Due to the high degree of automation, one operator can supervise 3-6 CNC horizontal lathes at the same time (only needing to regularly check the equipment operation status and replenish raw materials), reducing labor costs by more than 50%.
Lower Skill Threshold: Conventional lathes have extremely high requirements for operators' "experience accumulation" (3-5 years of experience are needed to operate proficiently). In contrast, operators of CNC lathes only need to master "basic program editing and daily equipment maintenance" to take up the job (they can operate independently after 1-3 months of training), solving the industry pain point of "shortage of skilled workers".
Automatic Data Recording: The CNC system can real-time collect key data during the machining process (e.g., machining time, spindle speed, feed rate, dimension inspection results) and automatically store it in a database, eliminating the need for manual recording.
Convenient Quality Traceability: If quality problems occur in a batch of workpieces, the corresponding machining program, parameter records, and inspection data can be retrieved through the system to quickly locate the cause (e.g., program error, excessive tool wear), reducing the defective rate.
Connection to MES Systems: CNC horizontal lathes can be connected to the factory's "Manufacturing Execution System (MES)" via industrial Ethernet, realizing automatic issuance of production plans, real-time monitoring of machining progress, and automatic early warning of material needs, thus improving the overall production management efficiency.
Significantly Reduced Scrap Rate: Due to manual operation errors, the scrap rate of conventional lathes is usually 3%-5%. For CNC lathes, due to stable accuracy and controllable programs, the scrap rate can be reduced to below 0.5%. Especially for high-value materials (e.g., stainless steel, titanium alloy), this can save a lot of material costs.
Controllable Maintenance Costs: The transmission components (e.g., gears, lead screws) of conventional lathes rely on manual lubrication, which is prone to wear due to insufficient lubrication, leading to high maintenance frequency. CNC lathes are equipped with automatic lubrication systems and fault diagnosis systems, which can real-time monitor the status of components, provide early warning of faults, and reduce unplanned downtime. Their maintenance costs are 20%-30% lower than those of conventional lathes.
Longer Equipment Service Life: The core components of CNC lathes (servo motors, precision ball screws, CNC systems) are all industrial-grade high-reliability products. Moreover, rough manual intervention during operation is avoided. The average service life of the equipment can reach 10-15 years (compared to 5-8 years for conventional lathes), resulting in higher long-term cost-effectiveness.
