CNC lathes and turning centers
A CNC lathe machines round parts: the workpiece turns in the spindle while tools on the turret cut to a program. It is the most common machine in a job shop, from 2-axis slant-bed lathes to turning centers with live tooling and a Y axis.
Parts it suits
- Shafts, pins and stepped shafts from bar stock
- Flanges, discs and rings held in a chuck
- Bushings, fittings and parts with bores and threads
- Automotive, motorcycle, hydraulic and pneumatic parts in medium to high volume
Specs to check
| Spec | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Chuck size | 6, 8, 10 inch or larger; sets the workpiece diameter you can hold. |
| Max turning diameter | Must exceed your largest part, with room for tools and fixtures. |
| Max turning length | Long parts need a tailstock or steady rest. |
| Bar capacity through the spindle | Critical for bar work with a bar feeder. |
| Spindle speed and power | Steel and cast iron need torque; aluminium and brass need speed. |
| Turret and tool stations | 8 or 12 stations; a servo turret indexes faster and can take live tools. |
| Control | Choose one your operators know and that has support in Vietnam. |
How to choose
- Start from the part: diameter, length, material and tightest tolerance.
- Only OD, ID and threads: a 2-axis lathe is enough and the most economical.
- Slots, off-centre holes or flats: choose live tooling with a C axis; add a Y axis when milling accuracy matters.
- Both ends need machining: a sub-spindle finishes the part in one setup.
- High volume: plan a bar feeder or parts loader from the start.
Common options
- Programmable tailstock
- Bar feeder
- Parts catcher
- Chip conveyor
- Tool presetter
- Hydraulic steady rest
- High-pressure coolant
Delivery, installation and warranty
New machines usually take about 1.5 to 5 months to build, depending on model and configuration. Installation, training and warranty service are provided by the builder or its dealer in Vietnam; the exact terms are stated in each quote. For many models a test cut with your own part can be arranged, so mention it in your request.
Related tools
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