Production turning: precision horizontal lathes for large-scale production
The requirements for modern production processes are as diverse as the components being produced: from individual pieces to small-scale and large-scale production. Choosing the right machine plays a crucial role. Horizontal production lathes are particularly noted for their high levels of efficiency, precision and flexibility, making them ideal for demanding large-scale production. Discover DMG MORI’s comprehensive portfolio here, offering tailored solutions for your horizontal production turning.
Overview
Horizontal lathes: tool carrier numbers define performance
The unique selling point for a production lathe is the existence of multiple tool carriers: between two and four is possible. This is why DMG MORI’s CTX 4A machines have two turrets, the NZX and SPRINT 50/65 have up to three and NZ even have four.
They make it possible to quickly change between different machining steps without the need to change tools. There are also machine tools without turrets, which use a linear carrier system. The SPRINT machines are worth mentioning as they have a main spindle, a counter spindle and up to three linear work carriers. Or the MULTISPRINT with six main spindles and several tool carriers per spindle. For reverse side machining, there are a further two spindles. ALX machines are an exception: they are specially constructed for the chain of several machines. WASINO machines also stand out asthese production lathes are designed for high-precision turning processes.
The horizontally clamped workpiece is machined with high precision in a horizontal lathe. This has several advantages:
- Versatile machining primarily of long/elongated components on a machine
- The horizontal layout enables workpieces to be supported by a centre support or a counter spindle as well as by a bezel.
- Users can handle workpieces and work tools more easily
The horizontal lathe reaches its limits clamping when machining large and heavy workpieces.
Efficient turning of bar stock and feed components with multiple turrets
The revolver production lathes from DMG MORI have up to four turrets with four Y axes. Each turret can also have a B axis. This makes this horizontal lathe the future-proof standard with maximum flexibility when it comes to making bar stock and feed components extremely efficiently. In addition to the variants with three revolvers and a B axis, DMG MORI also has a range of models without a B axis in its portfolio.
Horizontal lathes with two turrets in the TWIN concept
In the case of the two-turret machines, DMG MORI has even established its so-called TWIN concept in two variants: one with the transverse stroke of the counter spindle and one with the twin spindle. This unique working space concept enables parallel machining in two independent working spaces. On the one hand, this makes it possible to complete long workpieces (shafts) on the DMG MORI lathe and on the other, achieve collision-free front machining of longer parts on main and counter spindles. The NZX-S series lathes are aligned for the manufacture of crankshafts and camshafts.
Other production lathes:
- WASINO A series
- WASINO J series
- ALX series
- NRX series
- NZ platform
- GM series
The most important facts about the horizontal lathe
What advantages do turret production lathes offer?
By using several tools and simultaneously machining, production can be more efficient, more cost-effective and more diverse. Eliminating tool changes also makes it possible to realise? produce more complex workpieces with greater precision. With turret production lathes you can continue machining because there are no changeover times.
What materials can be machined with a horizontal lathe?
Besides classic metal - i.e. steel or brass - the horizontal lathe can also turn certain plastics. Some of the best-known polymers include acrylic and polypropylene. Plastics are often the material of choice when components need to be especially light. Ceramic components can also be processed.
What technical features should you be aware of with a horizontal lathe?
The key thing when choosing a lathe is the length of the workpiece and the maximum workpiece diameter. In order to manufacture a component with maximum precision and efficiency, the maximum travel distances of the X axis and the Z axis are crucial, as well as the control system, which you can tailor to your own requirements.