Sep. 19, 2024
Dual-spindle lathes are typically defined as having a main spindle and a secondary spindle with identical chuck size and through-bore capacity, but with different horsepower. two spindles. There are different types of two-spindle machines. In one style, the spindles face each other, and in the second style they do not.
The first step in the purchasing process is often to understand the subtle distinctions, as there is a wide range of terminology used in the industry when it comes to lathes with two spindles. Terms used to describe the spindle architecture inside a machine include subspindle, twin spindle, dual spindle, main spindle, and secondary spindle. Machine tool manufacturers may use this nomenclature differently, depending partly on the component setup and partly on personal preference.
Main spindle refers to the lathe's primary working spindle.
Secondary spindle, often called the pick-off spindle or back spindle, is located to the right of the main spindle and may be equal to or even superior to the main spindle in performance.
When the term "Subspindle" is used, the spindle on the right is typically considered inferior to the one on the left. This inferiority is seen in reduced through-bore capacity, a smaller chuck, and lower horsepower. In a subspindle-style machine, the two spindles usually face each other, allowing for part transfers between them, enabling near-continuous part processing.
Twin spindle: In a twin-spindle CNC lathe configuration, both spindles are generally equal in terms of capabilities and specifications.
Dual spindles: Dual-spindle lathes have a primary spindle and a secondary spindle, both with the same chuck size and through-bore capacity, but with different horsepower.
Two spindles: There are different types of two-spindle machines. In one type, the spindles face each other, while in the other type, they do not. The latter type requires a loading method, either manual or gantry-style.
1) A dual-spindle turning center can enhance your shop floor's productivity, reduce cost per part, increase back-working capacity, and improve overall quality.
2) By automatically transferring parts from one chuck to another for secondary processes, dual-spindle machines boost productivity by minimizing manual component handling.
3) These machines can be integrated with robotic part feeding and extraction systems or bar feeders for extended, unattended production runs, significantly increasing efficiency.
4) Dual-spindle machines can produce a final component machined on both faces by performing secondary operations such as drilling and tapping on both faces (axially) or sides (radially). This reduces handling, leading to improved part quality and consistency.
By eliminating idle time while waiting for a secondary procedure, the cost per part can be reduced. Machinists can use the secondary spindle to work on the reverse side of the part. The secondary spindle can be programmed to approach the part and remove it from the main chuck, enabling back-work machining.
Tasks that would typically require two or three machines can be performed on a single machine, reducing the overall time needed to fully produce a part.
The complexity of component programming increases with the addition of a second spindle to the work envelope, requiring extra attention.
First, spindle rotation and toolpath orientation are reversed, with the Z-axis programmed using positive integers instead of negative ones, starting from part zero.
The subspindle chuck can also be programmed to perform actions such as opening, rotating, stopping, or orienting using various codes.
Modern Dual Spindle CNC Lathes are easily automated due to their multiple turrets and spindles. Automation can be achieved by adding a bar loader and using the second spindle to complete the part.
For unattended machining, a parts-removal device is required to extract the finished product from the second spindle. If the component is larger than the maximum bar material size, a gantry loader can be installed to load and unload the second spindle within the machine envelope.
Turrets within the work envelope offer more flexible machining capabilities. Low-volume, high-variety part production can be economically achieved by integrating more tools and options. Our double spindle lathes are favored by customers who value the benefits of a robust, technologically advanced dual spindle multi-turret lathe that reduces cycle and changeover times. Having more spindles operating within the machine can provide a clear competitive advantage, regardless of the type of equipment or programming language used.
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