Lathe size and capacity

It is critical to evaluate the size of the parts to be machined. CNC lathes vary in terms of machining capacity, so it is crucial to select one that can handle the maximum diameter and length of the project parts. In addition, the space available in the shop to accommodate the machine and its layout relative to other equipment must be considered.

Control type and software

CNC lathes operate under different control systems, for example, Okuma CNC lathes work with different variants of the OSP control, with the OSP-P500 being the latest version available.  While other brands might use Fanuc or Siemens numerical controls. The choice of system will depend on both the operator’s preference and compatibility with the CAD/CAM software used. A system that is intuitive and easy to program will reduce learning time and improve productivity; for example, a shop with several Okuma machine tools will have the advantage of reduced lead times and greater efficiency.

Number of axis

Traditional CNC lathes typically have two axis (X and Z), but if the job requires more complex geometries, lathes with additional axis (such as Y and C) are an option. These allow milling and other advanced operations to be performed in a single setup, improving efficiency and accuracy. Also, opting for CNC lathes with extra axis and higher precision capabilities can mean greater profitability, as they are flexible for other machining projects.

Spindle speed and power

Spindle speed and spindle power are decisive for the type of material to be machined. Harder materials require more power and a robust spindle, while for small, precise parts, speed is a key factor. A safe approach to determining these variables for your project is to consult with a team of experienced engineers. In our case, our partners and customers are assured of the best advice available in the market, and our engineering team provides advice on equipment, tooling, accessories, peripherals and even automation systems, ensuring an efficient and cost-effective project.

Automation and additional accessories

Modern CNC lathes can include automatic functions such as bar loaders, automatic turrets or in-process gauging systems (in-process gauging) systems. These accessories increase productivity by reducing manual intervention and ensuring greater accuracy in continuous operations. These options can be loading and unloading, but systems can also be added with other CNC machine tools to reduce production times. For more information on our Automation systems available, please visit www.otomatiqa.com/en.

Technical service and after-sales support

Good technical support is crucial. The complexity of CNC lathes means that any unexpected downtime can lead to financial losses. The solution to this is to have 24/7 support from a team of experienced engineers and technicians, as well as after-sales support that includes quick technical assistance and spare parts with a sense of urgency and easy access.

Conclusion

Investing time in evaluating all these aspects will ensure a choice that maximizes the productivity of your project and minimizes long-term costs. At HEMAQ we believe in our customers and their projects, because our philosophy is focused on creating productive relationships of trust. With us, you will be able to find Integral Solutions for all your machining needs, because we have the best brands worldwide chosen based on a thorough evaluation; in addition to 24/7 Support and more than 36 years of experience. 

Preventive maintenance is crucial to ensure the efficiency of your CNC equipment and that part production goals are met, and is vital to prolonging the life of your CNC lathe or machining center. Considering that everything that can fail will eventually fail, the only way to prevent costly failures and production downtime is intelligently scheduled preventive maintenance.

What are the advantages of preventive maintenance?

• Improve the efficiency of your equipment and keep its components in optimal condition.
• Increase the service life of your CNC machinery
• Prevent costly failures
• Increased safety for your operators
• Higher quality of your final product

Considering all these aspects, scheduled maintenance serves as a preventive strategy to lower the total cost of ownership (TCO) of CNC equipment, because even though it adds up to short-term costs, it reduces potential expenses that could jeopardize the profitability of a piece of equipment or even a project as a whole.

TCO is defined as a tool that helps us evaluate the total costs (the sum of direct and indirect costs) associated with the purchase of CNC equipment or any other capital asset. This resource provides valuable information about the purchase cost, as well as usage and maintenance costs of the machinery.

To properly calculate the TCO of new CNC equipment, it is necessary to add “hidden” costs that are often overlooked, such as the training of your support staff and technicians. Fortunately, this “expense” can be transformed into a preventive investment by approaching experts who not only provide comprehensive solutions, but can also foresee future failures. 

Other expenses to consider are operating costs and electrical and cooling consumption, adjustments to your plant infrastructure, production downtime (planned or unplanned) and possible incidents such as defective parts.

CNC Financing

In addition, let’s remember that the basic principle for the realistic calculation of the cost of ownership of a CNC equipment is based on the sum of those expenses necessary to guarantee its correct operation during the useful life of the machinery. This measure considers both one-time payment values and those expenses recurring with production, such as consumables, tooling, energy and even land use per square meter in relation to its final production.

With all these expenses in mind, having a reliable maintenance service provider with high quality standards becomes a necessity, that is, a key player to have success and profitability in your projects. Do not hesitate to contact our support team, we have at your disposal plans of service hours with no expiration date and great versatility.