Turning Operation On Lathe Machine: Here is Everything You Should Know

A lathe machine is a high-grade shaping machine for industrial use. This machine has a rotating tool on which the workpiece rotates, which allows for easy shaping, even of the most complicated piece. It makes the lathe machine one of the most important tools in the machining industry. It is the foundation of the metalworking industry and is used in workshops, manufacturing units, and machines or automobile production lines. 

The turning operation on the lathe machine involves giving the rotating workpiece a cylindrical shape by removing the extra material with a single-point cutting tool. The accuracy is remarkable, which is why the lathe machine is used for turning operations in the electronics, aerospace, and medical tool manufacturing industry, among others. The lathe machine helps in achieving the desired dimension and surface finishing. So, if the professionals or hobbyists understand the turning process thoroughly, the process will be simple. So, in this post, we will break down everything that you should know about turning operations.

How Does the Turning Operation Work?

The turning operation works on the simple principle:

• A workpiece, mostly a metal piece, is hung on a spindle that rotates on its axis at the selected speed. 

• The single cutting tool is fed along or across the rotating workpiece.

• When the workpiece rotates along the cutting tool, it gradually chips off the extra layers, giving the workpiece a specific shape. 

Some of the major factors that play a key role in achieving the desired shape of the component are cutting speed, feed rate, depth of cut, and workpiece material. 

Kinds of Turning Operations 

The turning operations are also of different kinds:

• Straight Turning:

This is the most basic type of turning operation, which is used to cut and shape the diameter of the workpiece, giving it a uniform size and length.

• Taper Turning:

This is used for the equipment in which the diameter of the workpiece needs to be changed from one point to another. Thus, it leads to forming a conical shape. This is done through lathe machine components, compound rest, or offsetting the tailstock. 

• Facing:

Feeding is used to create a flat surface by feeding the tool perpendicular to the axis of rotation. This process helps in squaring the ends of the workpiece.

• Step Turning:

This process, as the name suggests, is to create multiple diameters in shafts. It leads to creating the steps that connect to varying levels of thickness.

• Threading:

One of the flat bed CNC lathe machine uses is thread cutting, in which the blade creates helical threads on the surface of the given workpiece, essential for bolts, screws, and threaded shafts. 

Benefits of the Turning Operations in the Lathe Machine 

The  high-grade machine has a wide range of benefits: 

• High accuracy

• High-grade surface finish

• Versatile tool suitable for a wide range of metals and plastics

• Can easily cut various shapes

• A cost-efficient solution that makes it apt for both large as well as small-scale industries.

Final Words…

So, by now, you should know that a lathe machine is one of the most important machining operations. From basic cylindrical shapes to intricate threading, it can perform a lot of functions. ‘Surelia Industries’ is known for supplying the finest quality of lathe machines for a wide range of industries, from small to large. The high performance, lesser need for maintenance, lower working costs, and longer functional life make them one of the best machining solutions manufacturers.