To process highly precise parts, the spatial positions of the worktable and milling cutter on a CNC lathe must be defined with precise coordinate values, and the movement in multidimensional space must be represented with digital computing information.
This axis of movement is called the CNC axis.
In this discussion, we will cover the number of axes on a CNC lathe and how to identify them.
A CNC lathe, or computer numerical control lathe, is a type of mechanical equipment that can be controlled by a computer program to perform high-precision operations around multiple axes.
The number of axes is a component of a CNC lathe, and each CNC machine has one or more axes, with different combinations for different types of CNC machines.
For example, a four-axis milling machine may have an XYZA or XYZB axis, while a foam cutter may have an XYUV axis. Lathes typically have an XZ axis. This article will mainly focus on the number of axes on a CNC lathe and how to identify them.
What is the number of CNC axes?
The number of axes on the CNC lathe determines the type of work it can perform, the level of detail it can cut, and the position in which it can manipulate the workpiece. CNC machining uses CAD technology to automatically shape and cut parts, and the number of axes determines the types of motion the CNC machine tool can perform.
Reference to axes describes mechanical equipment that operates along various points on the axis. NC machining involves removing materials from the part until the desired results are achieved.
In general, a CNC machine tool has at least three axes along the XYZ plane: the X axis represents the vertical plane, the Y axis represents the horizontal plane, and the Z axis represents depth.
The number of axes indicates the work that can be completed, the degree of part detail that can be cut, and the position that can be controlled. Common milling machines typically have three axes, also known as machining centers.
CNC lathes typically have two axes and a spindle on which parts are clamped for rotation. However, with technological advances, lathes with additional milling heads are also available.
Axis recognition on CNC lathe
The number of axes in a CNC system is determined by the system itself. Typically, CNC lathes come with 2 axis as standard while CNC milling machines come with 3 axis as standard.
However, the number of axes in a CNC system can vary, with some lathes capable of interconnecting 6 axes or even controlling more than 10 axes. The exact number of axes is determined by the system function.
How many CNC lathes are there?
Z axis definition:
The Z axis is parallel to the axis of the workpiece, allowing the tool to move along the side of the material as the workpiece rotates about the Z (C) axis. Movement along the Z axis determines the length of the work.
X axis definition:
The X axis is perpendicular to the Z axis, allowing the tool to move back and forth along the X axis to determine the diameter of the part.
Y axis definition:
The C axis is defined as the rotating table in the center of the bench, which rotates 360 degrees around the Z axis. The front end of the axis is a rotating head that can also rotate 360 degrees around the Z axis, becoming the axis W.
Representation of rotational movement and additional axis:
1. Rotary movement:
Rotary motion around the X, Y and Z axes is represented by A, B and C respectively, and the positive direction is determined according to the right-hand screw rule.
2. Additional axis:
Additional axis movement is represented by U, V, W, P, Q, and R.
Additional shaft rotation is indicated by D, E and F.
On a CNC lathe, the Z axis is located horizontally on the operator's left side. By convention, the Z axis is referred to as being near or far from the principal axis. Some CNC lathes also have a Y-axis, which allows the carriage to be adjusted for off-axis power tool drilling.
The CNC lathe is mainly used to process reverse rolling parts, and the cutting tool only requires lateral and longitudinal movements.
As a result, CNC lathes typically only control the X and Z axes, making them typical two-axis CNC equipment. However, some CNC lathes may also have a Y axis.
