What is the function of a CNC Arc Lathe?

A CNC turning center with arc machining is a precision lathe controlled by a computer program, specifically designed for machining metal or non-metal parts with complex geometric shapes, such as arcs, curved surfaces, and bodies of revolution. Its core function is to efficiently and accurately complete complex contours that are difficult to achieve with traditional lathes. It is widely used in the fields of machinery, aerospace, and automotive.

1. Functions of CNC Arc Lathes

Complex Surface Machining

Precisely turning non-linear contours such as spheres, ellipses, parabolas, and spiral grooves to meet the geometric requirements of high-end parts (such as molds and turbine blades).

High-Precision Rotating Parts

Machining internal and external arc surfaces of shafts, discs, and sleeves (such as bearing seats, cams, and flanges).

Multi-Process Integration

Complete turning, drilling, boring, grooving, and threading in a single setup, reducing repeatable positioning errors.

Batch Production Consistency

CNC program control ensures consistent dimensional accuracy for every product (tolerances up to ±0.01mm).

Typical application scenarios

2. Precautions for operation of CNC circular lathe

Pre-Operation Preparation

• Equipment Inspection

Lubrication System: Confirm that key components such as the guide rails, lead screw, and spindle are adequately lubricated (normal oil volume and pressure).

Pneumatic/Hydraulic Pressure: Check that the pressure in the clamping device (chuck, tailstock) is stable (usually 0.4-0.6 MPa).

Tool Condition: Ensure that turning tools, boring tools, etc. are securely installed and free of chipping or excessive wear.

Program Verification:

Run the program in simulation mode to check for tool path interference.

For initial machining, perform single-block execution or reduce the feed rate (F value).

• Workpiece Clamping

Chuck Calibration: Use a dial indicator to correct workpiece runout (generally ≤ 0.02 mm).

Clamping Force Adjustment: Reduce clamping force for thin-walled parts to prevent deformation; tighten the clamping force for heavy workpieces.

Tailstock Alignment: Ensure the center is coaxial with the spindle centerline to prevent machining deviation.

Precautions During Machining

• Safety Protection

Guard Door Closed: Do not open the guard door during operation to prevent chips from flying.

Gloves Prohibited: Avoid gloves from getting caught in rotating parts (such as the chuck and spindle).

Be Familiar with the Emergency Stop Button: Press the red button immediately in an emergency.

• Parameter Monitoring

Cutting Parameter Optimization:

Speed (Speed): Select according to the hardness of the material (2000-3000 rpm for aluminum alloys, 800-1500 rpm for steel).

Feed Rate (F): Reduce appropriately when machining circular arcs to avoid overcutting.

Load Monitoring: Monitor the spindle load gauge. Pause and inspect any abnormally high load (possibly indicating tool wear or a program error).

• Chip Handling

Chip Control:

Use a chipbreaker tool or adjust the feed rate to prevent long chips from wrapping around the workpiece/tool.

Prompt Cleaning: After stopping the machine, use a hook or air gun to remove accumulated chips to prevent scratches on the workpiece surface.

Post-Processing Maintenance

• Equipment Maintenance

Machine Tool Cleaning: Remove chips and coolant, and wipe the guideways and worktable.

Tool Management:

Remove tools, apply anti-rust oil, and inspect for wear.

Severely worn tools should be promptly replaced or reground.

Coolant Treatment: Filter impurities and replace coolant regularly to prevent bacterial growth and machine tool corrosion.

• Program and Data Storage

Back up machining programs to avoid program loss and reprogramming.

Record machining parameters: Archive parameters such as S/F/cut depth from successful machining for future reference.

Common Problems and Solutions

3. Maintenance Guide for CNC Circular Lathe

Daily Maintenance (Per Shift/Daily)

Cleaning

Remove chips and oil from the bed, guideways, and turret (use a dedicated scraper and cleaning cloth).

Clean the chip conveyor to prevent clogging.

Wipe the operation panel and display to prevent oil from corroding the buttons.

Lubrication System Inspection

Confirm the oil level in the automatic lubrication pump (at least 1/3 full).

Check that all lubrication points (guideways, lead screws, and bearings) are functioning properly.

Add the specified grease (such as lithium-based grease) to manual lubrication points.

Confirm the condition of key components.

Check the cleanliness of the spindle taper and clean with acetone if necessary.

Confirm that the hydraulic chuck/tailstock pressure is stable (4-6 bar).

Test the emergency stop button and safety door interlock.

Weekly Maintenance

Accuracy Inspection

Use a dial indicator to check spindle radial runout (≤0.005 mm).

Check the X/Z axis backlash (using an oscillator). (Optical interferometer, error > 0.01mm requires compensation)

Verify turret repeatability (±0.002mm)

Cooling system maintenance

Clean coolant tank sediment

Check coolant concentration (5-8% recommended)

Check pipes for leaks

Electrical system inspection

Tighten all terminals

Check cables for wear

Clean the filter in the electrical control cabinet

Monthly maintenance

Mechanical system deep maintenance

Remove and clean guide rail guards, replace worn seals

Check ball screw preload (adjust with a torque wrench)

Change spindle gear oil (first 500 hours, subsequent 2000 hours)

Hydraulic/pneumatic system

Replace hydraulic oil filter

Drain accumulated water from air line triplex

Check cylinder seals

Functional test

Test each axis with full travel

Test spindle torque with simulated load

Back up system parameters and PLC program