Tools for a Lathe and Tips for Maintaining the CNC Lathe Tools

In lathe CNC machining operations, you can use various cutting tools with different functions, advantages, and features. The lathe tools usable in CNC operations will differ based on each industrial application. You can use high-profile and expensive lathe-cutting tools, such as diamond tools, in high-profile industrial applications, such as the aerospace industry.

List of Lathe Tools for a Lathe CNC Machining Equipment

Lathe-cutting tools come in many shapes and types, allowing you to work on various CNC operations during parts or components production. These tools are compatible with the CNC turning Equipment used in most modern manufacturing facilities. These lathe-cutting tools have different categories that refer to various functions and characteristics. Here’s the list of tools for a lathe CNC machining equipment:

● Lathe Tools Based on Different Materials

Tools for a lathe can come from different material types, including HSS or High-Speed Steel, Carbide, Diamond, and Cubic Boron Nitride, which have unique advantages and limitations. The Diamond lathe-cutting tool is the strongest among the bunch. Manufacturers use the Diamond lathe tool for cutting workpiece materials with the most durable physical characteristics. Meanwhile, the Carbide lathe tools can work with almost all workpiece material types in CNC operations. Therefore, Carbide is the most-used lathe-cutting tool in today’s manufacturing scene.

● Lathe Tools Based on Structure

Structure-based lathe tools give you many options based on how you build or assemble these lathe-cutting tools. There are differences in the structure-based lathe tools, including single-body, welding, and clamp structures. Single-body or unibody tools are lathe-cutting tools with a unibody structure, presented in a single part instead of multiple parts. Welding lathe tools contain two or more tool pieces welded together into one. Also, the clamp lathe-cutting tools have two or more parts clamped together to perform some functions during the CNC operations.

● Lathe Tools Based on Feed Direction

Different tools for a lathe also come in different feed directions, which is essential during CNC operations. There are tools for a lathe for left-to-right feed direction, right-to-left feed direction, and round nose direction. Each CNC lathe-cutting tool will work according to its designed feed direction, with the round-nose lathe tools being able to move freely from left to right and right to left.

● Lathe Tools Based on Manufacturing Operations

The Lathe equipment will support various CNC machining services operations to create hardware prototypes, parts, and components. With each manufacturing operation, there will be a lathe-cutting tool you will need to use. These lathe-cutting tools based on manufacturing operations include drilling, cutting, knurling, turning, chamfering, etc. Each cutting tool will have its uses in each CNC machining operation based on the designated operational usage.

How to Maintain the CNC Lathe Tools

With many types of CNC lathe-cutting tools available, you will get all the flexibility you need to work on your prototypes or parts. However, let’s not forget about the maintenance aspect of these lathe-cutting tools, which is essential to keep your production process smooth and successful. Here’s how to maintain the CNC lathe tools:

● Lathe-Cutting Tool Lubrication

To maintain the smoothest movements, you must lubricate the lathe-cutting tools occasionally. You should lubricate the lathe-cutting tools between each CNC operation to keep them oiled and ready for the best performance. Lack of lubrication in the CNC lathe-cutting tools might hinder the progress in your parts production. Also, these lathe-cutting tools might experience problems and get damaged during operations.

● Dust-Cleaning

Dust problems might seem to be insignificant during your CNC lathe-cutting operations. But, it can be a big problem when you disregard it. Cleaning the dust around your lathe-cutting tools is a must-do before and after any CNC operation procedure. It is to prevent the dust from clogging the lathe-cutting tools and disturb the entire CNC operations later.

● Cleanliness of the Factory Environment

Another essential maintenance procedure for the lathe-cutting tools is cleaning the factory environment regularly. Maintaining the regular cleanliness of the factory site, CNC equipment, and individual lathe tools will boost your production success rate by a significant rise. Perform this cleaning routine before and after each CNC operation and remove all the waste materials during this time.

● Inspect for Issues with the Lathe-Cutting Tools

Your maintenance team also needs to investigate potential issues with the lathe-cutting tools from time to time. These tools for a lathe will often work well most of the time, but minor issues might cause your production to fail. Checking the lathe-cutting tools can help you find any problems and fix them immediately. It can also help you avoid risking your prototypes, parts, and components production.

● Replace Broken Lathe-Cutting Tools

The lathe-cutting tools will often have different life cycles, making it necessary to replace them when they break. You might use damaged lathe-cutting tools as a cost-cutting measure. But it will significantly affect your production and low volume manufacturing results, especially the accuracy and precision of each cut. Thus, replacing the broken lathe tools is preferable to keep a smooth production process and avoid any production issues later on.

● Tighten and Adjust the Lathe Cutting Tools

Your CNC machining equipment won’t work in the best way if the lathe-cutting tools are loosening up. Tightening and adjusting the lathe cutting tools for the best performance is essential before each CNC operation. Be sure to put these lathe tools in the best grip without being too tight or loose, especially for the clamped lathe-cutting tools.

● Rust or Corrosion Protection

Another essential maintenance routine for your lathe tools is to protect them from rust or corrosion. Rusting can happen occasionally with the lathe-cutting tools made of metal. You can prevent rusting by applying some rust inhibitors to your lathe-cutting tools’ surface. Lack of maintenance will also increase the risk of rusting and corrosion for your lathe tools. So, keep your CNC lathe tools well-maintained.

Conclusion

Flexibility is the key to the CNC lathe machining operations, allowing you to use all types of lathe-cutting tools for various purposes and rapid protoype services. Pick the lathe tools that work best for your prototype or part production. Also, don’t forget to maintain all these lathe-cutting tools to keep a smooth production process for your manufacturing project. Contact TEAM MFG today for a quote on your customized parts.