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Part Overview

CNC turning and machining centers are finding wide acceptance in manufacturing because they increase productivity, reduce manufacturing costs, and provide more flexibility because they can also machine angles and contours, Fig. 8-1. They have often increased productivity from 300 to 500% over conventional machines and reduced operator skill requirements. Operation needs no attention once the CNC program has been checked for accuracy.

Figure 8-1: A CNC Turning Center. Courtesy Emco Maier Corp.

Modern CNC turning/chucking centers are equipped with tool turrets that hold numerous different tools for the machining operations required on the part. The machining operations and the tools required for each are included in the CNC program and are changed automatically through the proper commands in the computer program. The time spent on changing tools is thus minimized and preliminary or secondary operations are often reduced or eliminated.

The greatest advantages of CNC turning/chucking centers are:

• Improved part quality due to the accuracy and reliability of the machine tool and the control system.

• Greater productivity because all operations such as tool setups and changes are controlled by the CNC program.

• Shorter lead times result in reduced inventory costs and faster delivery of a product.

• Smaller lot sizes can be machined with cost reductions, especially if complex forms or tapers are required.

• Biggest cost savings occur when lot sizes or 10...