Three Factors to Consider When Buying a CNC Lathe Machine
A Computer Numerical Control lathe is a machine tool that clamps a material and rotates it with the main spindle, while the cutting tool is mounted and can be moved in various axis positions.
Because CNC lathe machines are operated with computer-controlled systems, they provide a much higher degree of accuracy and quality than other lathes. But before you go ahead and purchase one, you should consider the following three factors.
1.How much do you want to spend on a CNC lathe?
Like any other product, you will find CNC lathes available at different price points, so you should be able to find an affordable option for you. But you still need to know how much you want to pay for a CNC lathe before you start looking for one.
If you can, come up with a flexible budget that includes the price you would like to ideally pay and the most you can pay. Then, look for CNC lathes within that price range. The cost of a CNC lathe is determined by a number of different elements, including its country of origin, design, size, specifications, shipping costs, and brand name.
Of course, you can also save money by purchasing a used CNC lathe. You will find many from leading brands, so quality is assured. You could find an Okuma CNC lathe for sale, or ones from other well-known brands such as Haas, Hyundai, and Mazak.
2.What are you going to use your CNC lathe for?
In essence, a CNC lathe machine is used to create precise round shapes that have both an outer and inner diameter.
A wide array of structures can be machined with a CNC lathe, but you still need to consider the particular structures and materials you will be machining to determine whether a CNC lathe is the best tool for the job.
To do so, complete thorough research about CNC lathes in comparison with other machines. Bear in mind that modern CNC lathes come with tools that can work in multiple axes. For instance, they can include both X and Y axes, a second spindle, or a second turret with different tools.
With such added features, your drilling, milling, and tapping operations could become more flexible and effective.
3.What type of CNC lathe do you want?
Modern CNC lathes are available with several axis options, which enable more complex parts to be produced. With different axes, parts can be positioned, approached, and rotated in various ways during the machining process.
Once you have determined what you are going to use your CNC lathe for, you can determine what type of lathe will be best for your needs.
Two-axis CNC Lathe
A basic CNC lathe has two linear axes to perform cylindrical machining and facing operations or tapping and drilling in the part’s center.
Three-axis CNC Lathe
A three-axis lathe has the C axis in addition to the standard X and Y axes. It also has a life tool system. With a three-axis CNC lathe, parts can be positioned to perform milling, boring, and tapping operations.
Four-axis CNC Lathe
With an additional axis, the four-axis CNC lathe enables off-center machining to be performed, which is ideal for complex or irregular operations.
Five-axis CNC Lathe
This type of CNC lathe is like a three-axis lathe but with a second turret that itself includes two axes, upper and lower, as well as the additional C axis on the rotating spindle.
Other CNC Lathes
You can also find six-axis and eight-axis CNC lathes that are highly sophisticated. Eight-axis lathe machines are especially complex and are not often used. So, a lathe between two axes and five axes should almost certainly be suitable for your machining needs.
