How does a vertical lathe work?

The vertical lathe is a machine particularly suited to machining medium and large parts. This type of lathe has a spindle in a vertical position, hence its name, and a rotary table mounted on a horizontal plane. This structure allows easier machining of large, heavy and bulky parts in any industrial sector.

Today's vertical lathes can machine parts with diameters ranging from 1 to 20 meters. This makes it one of the most widely used machines in many industrial sectors today. But in addition to this flexibility, they offer very precise and efficient metal removal.

How a vertical lathe works

The vertical lathe is a machine tool that removes chips from metal. Its operation is relatively simple thanks to CNC (computer numerical control). The operator enters a series of commands and instructions on the control panel to carry out the job. All the machine has to do is execute those commands on the workpiece once it starts.

A vertical lathe can perform up to 3 different movements:

• Main movement, which removes material from the workpiece.
• Feed movement, the path the tool follows to carry out the work.
• Infeed movement to position the workpiece.

The spindle axis of a vertical lathe is perpendicular to the floor. This is one of the reasons why the parts machined on this lathe are held in a vertical position. In this position the machine does not need to apply as much clamping force to the part, since it is standing upright.

In addition, this position of the part makes it possible to apply greater cutting force. This removes much more metal, reduces machining times and increases productivity. It is therefore a more productive way of working compared with horizontal lathes.

Uses and applications of these lathes

Vertical lathes have many uses and applications. They are used above all for machining large, heavy parts. These parts generally have to be transported and secured on the lathe using overhead cranes. The way the part is positioned is ideal for machining it.

The vertical lathe can also machine fragile parts. In fact, because little pressure is needed to clamp the part, these parts can be handled more safely.

Vertical lathes are therefore used in a wide range of industrial sectors. They can carry out machining work to manufacture wheel rims, turbines, railway wheels, propellers, fuselage components and other large parts. Sectors such as aerospace, automotive, rail, bearings, gears and oil rely heavily on the vertical lathe.They are also used for hydroelectric and marine parts, large electric motors, tunnel boring machines, etc.

In short, it is a machine that can cut, turn, mill, grind and perform various complex jobs.

Main advantages of the vertical lathe

The main advantage of vertical lathes is that they can machine the largest and heaviest parts. Unlike horizontal lathes, they have an ideal structure for working on the bulkiest parts. They do so without needing to apply great clamping force to the part, since it is positioned vertically.

This means that less energy is needed for cutting and removing metal chips. As a result, as well as greater precision and accuracy, you achieve significantly higher productivity with major savings in energy costs.

Likewise, since it is a CNC lathe, the risk of error is minimal. The operator gives the lathe instructions through the control panel so that it executes the design and turns the part. This is the worker's only involvement, as they do not have to handle the part during the process, which also means greater workplace safety.

It should also be noted that modern vertical lathes include a waste management system to collect the metal removed from the workpiece. This keeps the working environment much cleaner at all times.The versatility and flexibility offered by a vertical lathe are two very attractive advantages for any company. Whether for medium or large parts, it is the most suitable type of lathe for carrying out a wide range of machining jobs. That is why it is one of the most common machines in countless sectors. Its production capacity is ideal for meeting the requirements and demands of the global market.