The Difference Between a Conventional Mazak Lathe and a Swiss Turning Machine
Swiss turning machines operate differently than conventional CNC lathes in a number of ways. Both conventional and Swiss turning operations are subtractive machining processes: a centrally held workpiece spins, while precision grinding and cutting tools are positioned to carefully chisel away material.
The primary difference between conventional and Swiss turning is the method by which the workpiece is held. Conventional turning centers hold the workpiece at one or both ends, while Swiss turning centers feed the workpiece through a guide bushing, such that the machining is always performed near the support point.
HOW A CONVENTIONAL CNC LATHE WORKS
Conventional CNC turning centers clamp the workpiece at one end or both ends – depending on the size of the machined part and the layout of the lathe. The lathe then “turns” the workpiece at very high speeds up to several thousand rpm.
While the workpiece spins, specialized cutting and grinding tools are precisely guided via CNC programming to carefully remove workpiece material according to your custom part designs. Through subtractive manufacturing all unnecessary workpiece material is removed, leaving behind a precision-machined component or assembly.
The Advantages of Conventional Turning Services
Ideal CNC machining service for shorter and/or wide diameter part designs.
Lower initial cost of investment: conventional lathes are generally much cheaper than Swiss machining centers.
HOW SWISS TURNING MACHINES WORK
Swiss lathes carry out subtractive machining processes in much the same way as conventional turning centers. However, Swiss machines utilize movable headstocks to clamp the workpiece, enabling it to be repositioned along the Z-axis as it is machined. The workpiece is also laterally supported by a guide bushing so that the machining operations are constantly performed in close proximity to the support point.
As a result, Swiss lathes minimize deflection and vibrations within the workpiece, allowing for the manufacturing of much longer cylindrical parts and components.
Controlled by Salvagnini’s full-featured MAC2.0 software system, J&E’s CNC panel bending machine automatically adapts to changes in material thickness as bends are performed. This ensures precise bends with close tolerances as well as an extremely high degree repeatability from one product to the next.
The Advantages of Swiss Machining Centers
Less workpiece deflection allows for more reliable custom machining of longer and larger cylindrical parts.
Multiple machining operations can be carried out in a single cycle, streamlining the production of complex assemblies and components.
Streamlined machining operations and increased throughput make Swiss lathes ideal for high-volume complex machining productions.
COMPLETE CNC TURNING AND SWISS MACHINING SERVICES FOR YOUR PROJECT
J&E operates a full-service CNC turning department equipped with conventional Mazak lathes as well as precision Swiss turning machines.
Our multi-axis milling and turning centers equipped with live tooling enable us to streamline your project through simpler setup and faster cycle times, all while achieving superior results. Additionally, we offer quality contract manufacturing solutions for small-diameter Swiss machined components. We can also produce large parts and assemblies with dimensions up to 17.25” in diameter.
J&E is an ISO 9001:2015 certified American manufacturer following Six Sigma business practices and dedicated to sustainable contract manufacturing solutions.
Get in touch to discuss the details of your custom CNC machining project and discover how J&E’s state-of-the-art machine shop can exceed your production expectations.
