Rotary transfer machines are specifically designed to provide accurate and efficient milling operations, often necessary in production processes requiring a number of types of components to be manufactured in the same tool. The process of rotary transfer machining makes possible the efficient production of components with complex shapes or intricate features without the need to use multiple machines.
The term rotary transfer machine can refer to either a type of lathe or a type of machining centre. The former is a single machine which combines the functions of a lathe, a milling machine and a drilling machine in one. This type of machine is most commonly used in the production of small precision components, such as watch and clock parts, medical and dental implants and miniature components for electronics.
The latter type of rotary transfer machine is a machining centre that is designed to perform multiple operations simultaneously. This can be used to create complex parts that require more than one fixture, or tooling. Unlike the simpler rotary transfer lathe, the machining centre can feature up to five axes of motion and increased spindle power, allowing for greater precision and accuracy, and more complicated operations.
CNC rotary transfer machines are equipped with the latest in computer numerically controlled ( CNC) technology. Examples of CNC machining operations performed by this type of machine include drilling, tapping, broaching, threading and honing. With such capabilities, intricate components can be manufactured to exact specification.
The use of a rotary transfer machine for CNC operations provides significant advantages compared to manual operation. By reducing repetitive tasks and increasing production quantities, the operator is relieved of tedious and time-consuming manual tasks. The knowledge input required on the part of the operator is significantly reduced, and the elimination of manual tasks significantly improves the accuracy and consistency of parts which are produced.
The cost efficiency of a CNC rotary transfer machine is also significantly improved due to the higher level of precision it offers. The improved accuracy reduces the likelihood of expensive scrap parts, while the increased production speed allows higher manufacturing volumes in a shorter period of time. This can enable the machine shop to maximize its profits.
A CNC rotary transfer machine offers cost savings in other areas as well. With its improved accuracy, it is able to accept more challenging parts than manual operations, thus eliminating the need for a variety of special tools. These tools can make production costs prohibitive for a small manufacturer. Additionally, the reduced cycle times result in shorter lead times for completed parts, often allowing a manufacturer to respond to orders faster than their competition.
Finally, a CNC rotary transfer machine offers users increased safety and reliability. The reduced physical risk to the operator from performing manual tasks is an enormous benefit, and the risk of human error is minimized with the use of a programmed computer control. This helps ensure that parts are produced to the exact specifications provided by the customer, thus helping to enhance customer satisfaction.
Overall, the use of a CNC rotary transfer machine is a significant benefit to any shop looking to produce intricate parts or components efficiently and cost effectively. The consistent results, improved accuracy and cost reductions make them an excellent option for production runs of parts and components for a variety of industries.
