In the field of shaft part machining, Swiss-type lathes and conventional lathes are often confused, but they are suited for completely different scenarios. By focusing on the following 3 core points, you can quickly choose the right equipment and avoid issues like substandard precision or excessive costs.
Focus 1: Core Principle – “Who Moves” Defines the Essence
The most fundamental difference between the two lies in the motion relationship between the workpiece and the cutting tool during machining, which directly affects machining stability:
•Swiss-Type Lathe:
The workpiece moves, the tool stays fixed. The workpiece rotates while “actively feeding” along the axial direction, and the tool only makes fine adjustments in a fixed position. Cutting at different positions is achieved through the movement of the workpiece.
•Conventional Lathe:
The tool moves, the workpiece stays fixed. The workpiece rotates in a fixed position, and the cutting tool needs to move along the axial/radial direction to actively approach the workpiece for cutting.
Focus 2: Suitable Parts – “Slender & Precision” VS “Short, Thick & Large”
Differences in principles determine the “limitations” of suitable parts; choosing the wrong one will directly affect precision:
•Swiss-Type Lathe:
Specializes in slender, precision parts (length-to-diameter ratio > 10, diameter mostly < 20mm), such as electronic pins and medical micro-shafts. Equipped with a guide bushing for support, it can reduce workpiece bending, and the coaxiality can reach within 0.005mm.
•Conventional Lathe:
Excels at short, thick, and large parts (length-to-diameter ratio < 5, diameter up to several hundred mm), such as gear shafts and flanges. It holds the workpiece more stably, is suitable for medium-precision machining, and costs less than a Swiss-type lathe.
Focus 3: Machining Efficiency – “One-Time Completion” VS “Step-by-Step”
During mass production, the difference in efficiency is particularly obvious, directly related to costs:
•Swiss-Type Lathe:
Integrates functions such as turning, milling, and drilling. It completes all processes in one clamping without the need for secondary positioning, making it suitable for mass-produced parts requiring multiple processes.
•Conventional Lathe:
Focuses mainly on turning. For multiple processes, it requires tool changes or transferring the workpiece to other equipment, making it suitable for small-batch production or parts that only need a single turning process.
To summarize simply: For slender, precision parts, prioritize a Swiss-type lathe; for short, thick, and large parts, a conventional lathe is more appropriate. Matching the equipment to your specific needs is the key to efficient machining.