How to Understand the Haas CNC Lathe

The CNC lathe modernized the system by using automation instead of manual labor.

A CNC, or computer numerical controlled, lathe is a tool used primarily to shape metal or plastic into different forms. The lathe is controlled by a computer program running M or G codes to move the cutting edge to make a certain design. Haas CNC Lathes come equipped with a programming system that can be used without extensive knowledge of code. To understand the system, you need to understand the way the machine works, the various parts involved, and the different options available.

Instructions

1. Watch the Haas CNC Lathe complete a project. If you do not have access to the machine, contact Haas Automation about sales or training videos. The process should follow a basic pattern of steps. Stock, or un-worked metal, plastic or wax material, is mounted onto the lathe. A tool then secures the stock and keeps it centered as it rotates very quickly on a spindle. Then, the cutting tool is moved by a combination of a cross slide and stepper motor across the material. The blade moves left and right down the stock to shape it, while a separate motor pushing it in and out determines the grooves, slopes and bumps created. The movement of the blade is programmed into the CNC system using CAD before the process begins to design the look of the finished piece.

2. Identify the critical components of the machine. A Haas CNC lathe uses servomotors, spindles and chuck, headstock and tailstock and cooling centers. The servomotors are programmed to provide precise motion to the headstock and tailstock. The chuck secures the stock, while spindles spin it. Some Haas lathes come equipped with dual spindles and a third range of motion for faster production. The high volume coolant system not only maintains the proper temperature, along with the headstock castings, it allows for smooth and efficient chip removal.

3. Research the options and models available. Haas offers six major varieties of their CNC Lathe: Toolroom, Chucker Lathe, Turning Center, Dual Spindle, Office, and Bar Feeder. Within each category are several varieties. The major differences are in the control options, turret, spindle, and drive system. Each machine can cut to a different length and perform different types of work. For example, bar feeders are designed for high productivity and ease of use. Lathes that are part of the Turning Center group, on the other hand, feature Live Tooling as a standard feature. The introduction of a new axis allows for secondary processes like milling, flatting and tapping to be performed with precision. Haas can help you find the machine that best suits your needs.

References

• Haas Automation: CNC Lathes
• LabVolt CNC Lathe

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish