The different shafts of the Swiss lathe

       Hello everyone, here at HANBS, I'm Sonya, and today I'm sharing with you the different shafts of the Swiss lathe, mainly to introduce the role of the shafts in the swiss lathe, why do we need so many shafts? What is its role embodied?

       The swiss lathe (Swiss type cnc lathe/Sliding headstock cnc lathe) is known for its high precision and efficiency, and is especially suitable for small parts machining. They are divided into different types according to the number of axes and different configurations, today we will introduce 3-axis, 5-axis, 6-axis (Y2 axis) and so on. The following is a detailed explanation of each type.

1. 3-axis swiss lathe.

Involved axes: X1, X2, C-axis

Key features:

• X1 axis: Controls the movement of the tool in the radial direction (perpendicular to the workpiece).

• X2 axis: controls the movement of the tool in the longitudinal direction (along the length of the workpiece).

• C-axis: Controls the rotation of the spindle for drilling and milling operations on the radial and end faces of the workpiece.

Although there are only 3 axes, it is possible to add other accessories to make it more unique by making it a specialized machine for parts.

APPLICATIONS: 

       This lathe is mainly used for simple turning, drilling and basic milling operations, and is suitable for machining cylindrical or slightly curved parts, but has limited ability to machine complex geometries.

  

2. 5-axis swiss lathe

Axes involved: X1, Y1, Z1, C1, C2 axes

Key Features:

• X1, Z1: Used for turning and basic milling operations, similar to a 3-axis lathe.

• Y1 axis: adds an extra lateral movement for eccentric milling and drilling operations.

• C1/C2 axis: Controls the rotation of the main spindle (C1) and sub-spindle (C2) to realize machining of both ends of the workpiece.

The swiss lathe at this time can process the main and sub-spindles at the same time, which greatly improves the working efficiency.

Applications: 

       The 5-axis swiss lathe is capable of machining parts with more complex part geometries, and is especially suitable for parts that require multi-face milling, off-center drilling or contouring. Commonly used in aerospace, medical and other industries that require high precision and complexity.

3. 6-axis (Y2) swiss lathe

Axes involved: X1, Y1, Z1, X2, Y2, Z2

Key Features:

• X1, Y1, Z1: Mainly used for turning and milling operations on the spindle side, providing complete machining freedom.

• X2, Y2, Z2: Used for machining operations on the sub-spindle side, enabling simultaneous machining of both ends of the workpiece.

• Y2 axis: Allows complete milling, drilling and contouring operations on the sub-spindle side.

Simultaneous machining: the main spindle and the subspindle can be operated independently of each other, allowing two different machining operations to be carried out in different positions on the same workpiece.

The 6-axis swiss lathe allows for simultaneous machining of the main and sub-spindles, and with the addition of the Y2 axis, allows both the main and sub-spindles to be independent machining fields, further reducing machining times.

Applications: 

       The 6-axis (Y2) configuration is ideally suited for the machining of complex parts, especially those requiring multiple operations. The simultaneous machining function of the main spindle and the sub-spindle significantly reduces machining cycles and increases efficiency. Commonly used for mass production of medical devices, watch components and complex aerospace parts.

Summary

• 3-axis swiss lathe: for basic turning, drilling and face milling operations.

• 5-axis swiss lathe: offers greater flexibility in machining skills, the ability to machine complex geometries, support for eccentric milling, and the ability to control both the spindle and the subspindle simultaneously.

• 6-axis (Y2) swiss lathe: offers maximum flexibility, allowing simultaneous machining of both main and sub spindles, working in tandem, suitable for efficient machining of precise and complex parts.

       Today's sharing is here, I hope to help those who need it, we will be the next chapter of these different types of axis machines for further derivation of the explanation. See you in the next installment.