Difference Between CNC Lathe and Conventional Lathe • 3axis Group

Do you know the difference between CNC lathe and conventional lathe? The high competitiveness of industrial markets has led manufacturing companies to create increasingly precise machine tools. As you may well know, in the metalworking industry there is a wide variety of machinery with specific sizes and uses for production.

In this article we will talk about CNC lathes, as well as the main differences with conventional lathes. In addition, we will list the many advantages of changing from conventional lathes to CNC lathes.

What is the difference between a manually operated lathe and a CNC lathe

Operated with computer numerical control (CNC) systems and provided with precise design instructions, CNC lathes are machine tools where the material or workpiece is clamped and rotated by the main spindle, while the cutting tool working on the material is mounted and moves inward.

As for the conventional lathe, it is a machine that allows machining geometric parts such as cylinders, cones or propellers. The part to be machined rotates while one or more cutting tools are pushed in a forward motion against the surface of the part. Sounds familiar, doesn’t it? Keep in mind that the main function is the same in CNC lathe.

The CNC lathe is one of the most versatile and, therefore, common pieces of equipment used in the metalworking industry. In essence, the lathe is a piece of equipment that facilitates the machining of raw material using one or more cutting tools. With a CNC lathe, the tools operate according to a program written and loaded into the machine, allowing for highly accurate production and mass production.

What are the pros of CNC machining vs manual machining?

If the needs of your company or workshop have changed and you are not sure about taking the step to the CNC Lathe. Just read on.

1. One of the most important aspects for companies is timing, so one of the main advantages is the reduction of machining time. Mainly because generally only one operator is needed to supervise that everything is done according to the design previously programmed in software.
2. Second fundamental aspect. Thanks to the constant optimization of CNC lathes, they offer greater precision and adjustment avoiding human errors.
3. CNC lathes allow the machining of more complex parts. Also, several cutting tools can be operated at the same time, and it is easier to switch from machining one part to another.

If you still have any questions you can contact us, we will be happy to help you. Also, you can visit ourmarketplace and discover all the CNC Lathes we have available (we work with top brands).

Discover also:

The different types of metalworking lathes

What is a cnc lathe?