Numerical Control Lathe and Cutter Principles and Tools Setting Methods
Introduction
Lathe machines use a spindle and cutting tool to shape material into the desired shape and size. To ensure accuracy, the machine operator needs to understand the cutter’s principles and how to set them up properly. This article will explain the principles and methods of setting lathe cutters as well as an overview of numerical control lathe machines.
Numerical Control Lathe Machines
Numerical Control (N/C) lathe machines are equipped with computer numerical control (CNC) systems that are responsible for controlling the movement of the machine cutting tools. The machine operator is responsible for entering the necessary data into the CNC system in order to accurately perform the desired operation. N/C lathes typically require the operator to specify the tool’s cutting profile, cutting speed and feed rate in order to achieve the desired cutting results. Additionally, the operator must establish proper tool geometry and wear compensation parameters in order to ensure optimal life and performance of the tooling.
Cutter Principles
Lathe cutter principles are based on two primary cutting actions: 1) shearing and 2) abrasion (grinding). In a shear cut, the tool material is forced to move over the surface being cut by the cutting edge of the tool. This type of cutting action is often used when cutting softer materials that are not easily cut with abrasive tools. Abrasive cutters, on the other hand, use abrasive particles that are embedded into the cutting edge of the tool. These particles allow the tool to grind away the material being worked on rather than shearing it.
Tools Setting Methods
Once the correct lathe cutter has been selected, the operator must set up the cutter for optimal performance. The operator needs to determine the correct cutting speed and feed rate for the material being worked on. The cutting speed should be set to the highest possible rate that can be used without causing excessive tool wear. The feed rate should be set to the lowest possible rate that will still allow for good cutting performance.
The cutting tool should also be properly set in the tool holder. The cutting edge should be aligned perpendicular to the surface being cut to achieve the desired cut quality. The tool aperture should be set to the correct size to allow for adequate clearance between the tool and the material being worked on.
To ensure accurate and repeatable operation, the operator should also check to make sure that the tool is not vibrating or vibrating excessively. Excessive vibration can cause the cutter to cut inaccurately and could result in poor-quality work. If necessary, vibration can be minimized by increasing the cutting speed and decreasing the feed rate.
Conclusion
By understanding the principles of numerical control lathe machines and cutter principles, the operator can set up their cutters properly for optimal performance. Setting the tool to the correct cutting speed and feed rate, aligning the cutter properly in the tool holder and checking for excessive tool vibration can all help ensure that the desired work results are achieved.
