Introduction
Six Hex Machine Lathes are a type of lathes that utilizes six hexagons as its main input for spinning. This type of lathe has multiple advantages such as accuracy, reduced size, and flexibility. Moreover, as compared to other types of lathes, these machines work with a higher accuracy and are more suitable for producing parts of small size. In this article, we will discuss the technical parameters of the six hex machine lathe, the functions of its various components and the process of its operation.
Overview of the Six Hex Machine Lathe
The six hex machine lathe is a two-axis machine tool that consists of two spindles, one at the front and one at the rear. The front spindle is the primary spindle, and it is powered by a motor. The motor can be either manually operated or electronically controlled, with the help of a programmable logic controller. The rear spindle is the secondary spindle and is usually used as a support mechanism and help to form the hexagonal parts.
Main Technical Parameters
• Spindle power: The power of the spindle is determined by the size of its motor and its maximum speed. The usual speed of a six hex machine lathe is about 8000rpm or higher.
• Diameter: The maximum working diameter of the six hex machine lathe is usually between 200mm and 260mm.
• Spindle speed: The speed of the spindle is adjustable and is usually between 1000 and 8000rpm or higher.
• Spindle bore: The bore of the spindle is also adjustable and is usually between 25 and 65mm.
• Turning angles: The turning angles of the six hex machine lathe ranges between 0-360°.
• Tables: The six hex machine lathe has both a rotary table and a turret table. The rotary table revolves the easily and locks the workpiece into place while the turret table is further adjustable and provides the necessary accuracy required for the manufacture of hexagonal parts.
• Accuracy: The accuracy of the six hex machine lathe is usually expressed in terms of its repeatability and its surface finish. Generally, the repeatability of a six hex machine lathe is as good as 0.01mm and its surface finish can be as good as 0.002mm.
Components and Functions
• Spindle: The spindle is the main component of the six hex machine lathe. It is responsible for the rotation of the workpiece and its speed can be adjusted to suit the demands of the individual parts.
• Table: The table is the part that holds the workpiece in place and it can either be in the form of a rotary table or a turret table.
• Coolant: The coolant is used to regulate the temperature of the workpiece, and the clamping device to hold the workpiece in place.
• Collets: The collet, also known as the collet adapter, is used to hold the workpiece in place.
• Chuck: The chuck is used to grip the workpiece securely and it is usually adjusted manually or by a programmable controller according to the needs of the individual parts.
• Tool holders: The tool holders are adjustable mechanisms that hold the cutting tools in place.
• Cutting tools: The cutting tools used on the six hex machine lathes include chamfering, boring, internal and external turning tools, drills, milling tools, countersinks, and reamers.
Operation of the Six Hex Machine Lathe
The operating sequence of the six hex machine lathe begins with the installation of the workpiece and the cutting tools onto the lathe. Once the workpiece has been installed, the spindle is then set to the desired speed. After the spindle has been set, the cutting tool is then adjusted appropriately before cutting can begin. Once the cutting is complete, the workpiece can then be removed from the lathe and the next one can be installed.
Conclusion
The six hex machine lathe is a two-axis machine tool that can provide high accuracy and is suitable for making parts of small size. The machine comes with various components such as spindles, tables, coolants, collets, chucks and tool holders. The operation of the machine involves the installation of the workpiece, the setting of the spindle, the adjustment of the cutting tool and the eventual removal of the workpiece from the machine. With its multiple advantages, the six hex machine lathe is an ideal choice for producing parts of small size.
