Numerically controlled industrial turning technology

 

Numerically controlled (CNC) turning is a fundamental technique used to manufacture essential metal parts in many industrial sectors. This machining method involves rotating a metal part on a lathe and shaping it using specialised cutting tools. 

 

 

How CNC turning technologies work

 

Numerically controlled turning is a widely used machining process in industry. It enables a material to be machined using a low-cost process, to give it the desired geometry by removing chips. Numerically-controlled industrial lathes allow a workpiece to be machined by rotating it while a cutting tool shapes the desired form. Parts and products machined using the turning process are highly precise. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes and finishes, and play a crucial role in the creation of key components such as shafts, gears and axles.


The parts to be machined are placed in the centre of the lathe by means of a spindle whose speed of rotation is adapted to the material and the turning operation to be carried out. CNC turning technology saves time during production while maintaining high precision (work to the millimetre, whatever the diameter of the part to be machined). 


The industrial turning machines in the MECANUMERIC range use a powerful motor to turn all types of material, including wood, composites and plastics. The numerical control system transfers information from the computer design file to the CNC machine, which then machines the part, whatever its shape. Series production of parts can therefore be automatic or automated.

 

The advantages of CNC turning

Numerically controlled turning requires less energy and force than other industrial machining processes. The tools wear less and therefore last longer. The result is high quality products at low cost. Numerically controlled lathes allow easy recovery of swarf, which is very useful for avoiding equipment clutter, and even essential when toxic or abrasive swarf is involved, for example.


Today's CNC lathes can perform multiple, complex operations involving the removal of material, such as grooving, threading, drilling or reaming. Numerous materials such as wood, aluminium, brass or thermoplastics can be machined, for example, thanks to an automatic turret and constant feed speed. 


Numerical control technology (CNC) enables unrivalled levels of precision and productivity to be achieved, thanks to automatic programming via CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and manufacture) software. It is easy to use and ensures operator safety. 

 

What applications for CNC turning? 

The turning process is used to machine rotating parts in a wide range of applications, including :

 

 

Industrial equipment for turning operations 

 

Equipped with high-performance turning tools, such as high-speed spindles, digital lathes can be used to manufacture complex turned parts. The CNC turning process enables the precise machining of both one-off and mass-produced parts.


Charly4T CNC mini-lathe
With its technology designed for performance, the CHARLY4T CNC mini-lathe brings simplicity to the milling and turning of prototypes and small series.

 

Discover the full range of CNC turning machines from MÉCANUMERIC