Sliding head automatic turning machine- Here you have success!
Design and function of a sliding head automatic turning machine
A sliding head automatic turning machine, also known as a Swiss-type lathe, is a specialised machine tool that is particularly suitable for the precise machining of long and thin workpieces.
The sliding head automatic turning machine is characterised by its special design and mode of operation, which sets it apart from other turning machines. The machine tool has a moving headstock that guides the workpiece through a guide bush. This allows the workpiece to be machined close to the cutting edge, which increases accuracy and minimises vibrations.
Machining process
The machining process on a sliding head automatic turning machine (or sliding head lathe) begins with the raw material being fixed in the moving spindle. The workpiece is guided through the guide bush, which stabilises it and allows it to be machined close to the cutting edge. This is particularly advantageous when machining long and thin workpieces, as it prevents the formation of vibrations and ensures high precision.
The cutting tool, which is mounted on a turret or tool carrier, is then brought into position. By moving the spindle along the Z-axis and moving the tool along the X-axis, various machining operations such as turning, drilling, milling and tapping can be performed. Modern sliding head automatic turning machines are often equipped with several tool carriers, which enable simultaneous machining at several points on the workpiece and thus significantly shorten the machining time.
Advantages of the sliding head automatic turning machine
Sliding head automatic turning machines offer numerous advantages, including high precision and repeatability, the ability to machine complex geometries and efficient production by reducing set-up times. The machine is ideal for series production and can also easily process difficult-to-machine materials such as titanium and stainless steel.
Differences between a sliding head automatic turning machine and a fixed head automatic turning machine
A sliding head automatic turning machine is suitable for long and thin workpieces and offers high precision thanks to a moving spindle and guide bush. It typically machines workpieces with lengths of several hundred millimetres and diameters from a few millimetres to around 32 millimetres. These machine tools are ideal for components such as shafts or screws.
A fixed head automatic turning machine, on the other hand, offers faster processing times and is often more flexible in the series production of complex parts. Fixed head automatic turning machines specialise in workpieces with lengths of up to around 200 millimetres and diameters that are usually between 10 and 65 millimetres. These machine tools are suitable for the series production of shorter, complex parts such as bushes, bolts and fittings.
Applications in industrial production
Sliding head automatic turning machines (or sliding head lathes) are essential in industries that require the highest precision and repeat accuracy. They are frequently used in precision mechanics, medical technology, watchmaking, the automotive industry, aerospace, the electronics industry and jewellery manufacturing. Examples of workpieces that are manufactured using a sliding head automatic turning machine:
- Watch shafts
- Medical implants
- Dental drills
- cannulas
- Precision screws
- Plug connections
- motor shafts
- Turbine blades
- Optical mounts
- Injection nozzles
These workpieces are often central components in high-precision devices and systems.
A sliding head automatic turning machine can machine a wide range of materials, including steel, stainless steel, aluminium, brass and plastic. Sliding head automatic turning machines help to optimise production processes by enabling complex machining with high accuracy and consistency.
Tools, accessories and operating materials for a sliding head automatic turning machine
The most important tools include turning tools, drills, reamers and milling cutters, which are used for various machining processes such as turning, drilling, reaming and milling.
Important accessories include collets, guide bushes, tool holders and turrets. Collets and guide bushes ensure precise fixing and guidance of the workpiece, while tool holders and turrets position the tools stably and accurately.
Operating fluids such as coolants and lubricants are crucial to minimise friction and heat generation during machining, which extends the service life of the tools and improves the quality of the finished workpieces.
Effective chip removal is also important to keep the work area clean and optimise machine performance.
The performance and longevity of the sliding head automatic turning machine can be significantly increased by the correct selection and maintenance of these tools, accessories and operating materials.
Leading manufacturers of sliding head automatic turning machines
In our manufacturers directory, you will find companies that produce sliding head automatic turning machines for metalworking.
The following terms are frequently searched for: CNC sliding head automatic turning machine, Citizen sliding head automatic turning machine, DMG Mori sliding head automatic turning machine, Index sliding head automatic turning machine, Maier sliding head automatic turning machine, Starrag sliding head automatic turning machine, Traub sliding head automatic turning machine, sliding head automatic turning machine function
Selecting the right sliding head automatic turning machine
If you want to buy a sliding head automatic turning machine, there are several important features and specifications to consider.
- The maximum bar capacity and spindle speed determine the size and processing speed of the workpiece.
- The precision and stability of the machine bed are decisive for the accuracy of the machining and the longevity of the machine.
- A CNC control enables complex and repeatable machining processes that increase efficiency and productivity.
- Another important specification is the number of tool stations, which offer flexibility when machining different workpieces.
- The availability of synchronised guide bushes and counter spindles increase machining accuracy and efficiency.
- Also look for the integration of coolants and lubricants to extend tool life and improve the quality of the finished workpieces.
- Comprehensive customer support and a good maintenance service are essential to ensure long-term and reliable use of the sliding headstock lathe.
Find the sliding head automatic turning machine that suits your production requirements now at machineselection.com.