Universal lathes: Versatility for Precise Manufacturing Solutions
Universal lathes are true all-rounders in the field of material-removal machining. They enable the machining of rotationally symmetric workpieces and are used in both single-part and small-batch production. Thanks to their high flexibility and adaptability, numerous variants have developed. The universal lathe holds a central role at DMG MORI, thanks to its versatility and performance capability, and is an important part of the DMG MORI portfolio across different series and machine types.
Overview
The main components of universal lathes
High, infinitely variable speeds and manufacturing accuracies are based on a high-rigidity machine bed. Its inclined design facilitates forward chip removal. The longitudinal carriage and tailstock run on prismatic guideways. The tailstock is fundamental for the machining of long workpieces. It can be equipped with various attachments, such as the Morse taper (MT). Additionally, live and fixed steady rests may be installed. They increase tool stability during the turning process. The main drive is integrated into the headstock. The rotary motion is transmitted via the spindle to the workpiece. The spindle is divided into main spindle and counter spindle. The main spindle picks up a blank or round material and drives it for the turning process. The counter spindle is located opposite the main spindle. With its help, complete machining of a workpiece on all six sides can be achieved. This increases productivity in industrial production.
Machining operations mastered by universal lathes
- Longitudinal turning
- Face turning
- Conical surfaces
- Turning of external and internal diameters
- Thread turning
- Copy turning (also referred to as profile turning)
Universal lathes are found in the industry as manually operated, conventional, cyclic-controlled, and CNC universal lathes.
The right series for every requirement
To enable industrial manufacturers across various sectors to produce turned parts with the highest precision and millimeter accuracy, DMG MORI has developed individual series of universal lathes, including the CLX, CTX, NLX and SL. All machines feature rigid machine beds, robust guideways, and linear guides, ensuring vibration-free and stable turning, as well as maximum performance. Thanks to spindle drives of up to 12,080 Nm, users benefit from maximum cutting performance. A large turning diameter of up to 930 mm diameter, optimal chip fall, and last but not least, position measurement systems, ensure precise results in the manufacturing of workpieces. Turrets with driven tools or a tailstock or a steady rest for machining long workpieces enhance the versatility of machining within the universal lathe spectrum.
Defined properties and a wealth of variants
Compared to other turning processes such as CNC turning and horizontal turning, universal turning is distinguished by its ability to perform complex geometries and various machining operations in a single process. This wealth of variants is achieved by the following properties:
- The counter spindle enables 6-sided complete machining
- Y-axis for off-center machining of complex workpieces
- Bigbore spindles with a passage of up to 375 millimeters
- Machining of workpieces up to 930 mm in diameter and up to a 6,000 mm turning length
- Flat guides for optimal damping properties and dynamic rigidity
Universal lathes: FAQs
What are the main features of universal lathes?
Versatility is key with universal lathes: Common operations include longitudinal and flat turning, machining of conical surfaces, and turning of external and internal diameters. Each universal lathe features a headstock housing the main spindle that drives the workpiece. Some models also feature a so-called counter spindle for additional machining capabilities. This positively impacts productivity.
Why should you choose universal lathes?
Universal lathes ensure maximum precision and performance through inherently rigid machine beds, robust guideways, and linear guides. They can be automated, which makes them more versatile and efficient. In addition, universal lathes can be adapted to different materials and requirements. This makes them suitable for cross-sector production tasks.
Which universal lathes are used in modern production?
The DMG MORI universal lathes of the series CLX, CTX, NLX and SL are suitable for the broadest range of turning tasks imaginable. Their flexibility and the use of modular tools, CNC control, and automated processes form the basis for the efficient machining of demanding components, such as those used in medical technology or aerospace.