Overview of CME 2023 Exhibits: Turning Machine Tools

Overview

According to available information, there are over 60 exhibitors showcasing turning machine tools at this exhibition, with more than 120 lathe products on display. 

Main Features of Lathe Exhibits

(1) Diversified Products: The lathe exhibits at this exhibition offer a wide range of models, with each exhibitor showcasing their unique products. The diversity stems from variations in the number and form of spindles and turret configurations, resulting in a variety of models. The overall structure of the machine tools includes vertical, inverted, and horizontal orientations. The spindle arrangements encompass single-axis horizontal, single-axis vertical, dual-spindle docking, parallel dual-spindle, and intermediate-drive dual-head spindle configurations. The turret arrangements include indexed turret, turntable turret, comb-shaped turret, dual turret, or multiple turret combinations. Some equipment is also equipped with large-capacity tool magazines and ATC mechanisms. Function-wise, there are general-purpose CNC lathes, turning centers, vertical lathes, as well as various types of specialized CNC lathes, such as pipe thread lathes, wheel hub lathes, and multi-axis multi-station dedicated lathes. Many machine tool exhibits adopt modular design, providing flexibility and excellent expandability. Exhibitors such as Emac, Tornos, Westinghouse, Murata Machinery, Mazak, Baoli Machinery, Indatex, Qinchuan Machine Tool, Taizhou Yijie, and others showcase their unique diversity.

(2) High Precision: High-precision electric spindles, linear motors, torque motors, roller guides, ball screws, linear scales, closed-loop control, and precision spindle bearings are extensively used in CNC lathes. These components ensure high positioning and repeat positioning accuracy, as well as minimal spindle axial and radial runout errors. The spindle runout of Xiaobulin is 0.3µm; Da Chang Huajia's ultra-precision CNC continuous contour machining machine tool uses a high-rigidity porous graphite-coated air spindle with spindle axial runout ≤4nm; Bogu Intelligent's high-precision lathe uses liquid hydrostatic guides and liquid hydrostatic headstocks, achieving an accuracy level of "X, Z-axis positioning accuracy of 1µm, repeat positioning accuracy of 0.5µm, and spindle axial and radial runout both <0.15μm." Additionally, due to no-contact wear, good accuracy retention is maintained.

(3) High Rigidity: High-rigidity bed materials are used, and in terms of structural design for basic components and key functional parts, finite element analysis is employed to achieve high rigidity. Double-row cylindrical roller bearings are used for the spindles, and roller linear guides are extensively applied instead of ball linear guides, enhancing the rigidity of the machine tool. Heavy-duty turning lathes adopt wide rectangular hardened guides, mountain-shaped sliding guides, and other structures to strengthen the rigidity and stability of the structure.

(4) High Efficiency and Automation: Many lathe machining products are large-batch disc and shaft-like rotating parts, which are highly suitable for automation. The requirement for high efficiency arises from the need to process large quantities. Configurations such as dual spindle and dual turret have become options for many high-end lathes, and multi-axis and multi-turret setups are also common. Simultaneous machining on dual or multiple axes greatly improves processing efficiency. The use of turrets and various robotic arms enables easy automation of one-time processing of workpiece front and back surfaces, left and right ends, and other areas. The application of various workpiece holders, bar feeders, integrated robots, robotic arms, online measurement technology, etc., makes automation and unmanned production increasingly achievable. The high efficiency and automation of lathes greatly improve productivity while saving a significant amount of labor and reducing the labor intensity of workers. Exhibits from Emac, Indatex, and other representatives showcase a refreshing level of automation.