The multi-function lathe is a machine tool that integrates several machining processes and tasks in a single machine. It can carry out different jobs without moving the workpiece from one machine to another. In other words, turning, milling, drilling and so on can all be performed on the same part in one set-up.
What is a multi-function lathe?
The main feature of this machine is its ability to run several processes at the same time. A multi-function lathe can perform turning, milling, drilling and boring operations, among others, which saves a great deal of time on production lines. Thanks to this machine, a part no longer has to pass through several different machines before it reaches the required finish.
The multi-function lathe, also known as a multi-tasking lathe, machines parts on several axes. It has two spindles that can be alternated to carry out the various machining operations in a single process. The part therefore leaves the machine completely finished and ready for delivery.
Numerical control on multi-tasking lathes
The multi-function lathe works with CNC alphanumeric language, or computer numerical control. Thanks to this technology, the processes on this machine tool are automatic, which helps to cut lead times and labour, since minimal human intervention is required.
To work with this machine, the part must first be designed in CAD and CAM software and then translated into a CNC language compatible with the control of the multi-function lathe. Once the operator has entered the parameters the machine needs, all that remains is to load the part into the main chuck, using the machine's own clamping systems or tooling.
However, unlike other CNC machine tools, the multi-function lathe calls for genuine programming expertise, because it is important to know how to combine all the machine's functions to get the best out of it. In other words, you need an expert who can program the turning together with the milling and, where necessary, the corresponding drilling of the part.
Features and advantages of the multi-function lathe
Since it has the cutting tools of both lathes and milling machines, the multi-function lathe usually includes several chucks, clamping systems, fixtures and tools with the power and rigidity needed to machine a part with whatever operation is required. Tool changes are automatic and there is no need to rotate and reposition the part, because the machine has everything it needs to move it as required.
The multi-function lathe is also notable for the fact that the parts it machines can have complex geometries. The results are excellent: flawless, precise, high-quality finishes. On this machine, the machining time for small parts drops to under a minute, while large parts involve long machining cycles; even so, operators are free to carry out other tasks in the workshop without having to watch the multi-function lathe constantly.
We have already mentioned that this machine can carry out many tasks, but which ones exactly? A multi-function lathe can perform not only every turning operation, but also three-, four- and five-axis milling; as well as drilling. This is why these machines are considered among the most flexible and versatile on the market.
It can also work with different materials, which adds to the versatility of these machines. As a result, multi-tasking lathes are found in machine shops working with metals of every kind: stainless steel, aluminium, iron and so on; they can also handle wood and glass. With this lathe you can produce parts for metalworking, as well as artistic pieces for jewellery and even engravings.
Finally, depending on the model, the multi-function lathe includes a sub-spindle, which automatically picks up the parts so that they can be machined on the opposite face.
Parts of the multi-function lathe
The multi-function lathe consists of a bed, the machine's base, on which all the other parts sit. On the bed are the chucks (usually more than one) that hold the part using different clamping systems and tooling.
The machine generally has two spindles (main spindle and sub-spindle), plus a milling head. As mentioned, these spindles allow the part to be transferred automatically from one to the other so that it can undergo two different machining operations. Many multi-tasking lathe models offer the option of adding a turret as an additional tool station or removing the milling head to fit a second turret.
Last, there is the machine's control; without it, the lathe could not carry out any of its tasks. The operator enters the commands the lathe needs to machine the part into the control.