The parallel lathe is the quintessential machine tool for manufacturing any component based on a solid of revolution . This means that if a part can be conceived by rotating a profile around a central axis, the lathe is the ideal tool for creating it. From simple components like shafts and bushings to complex elements like pistons, mastering this machine is fundamental. Understanding the range of Identifying parts that can be made on a parallel lathe is the first step in optimizing production, identifying opportunities for improvement, and deciding when it's time to scale up to technologies like Computer Numerical Control (CNC) to boost your workshop's competitiveness.

Types of parts manufactured with a parallel lathe

The versatility of the parallel lathe allows it to produce a wide variety of geometries. These can be classified into the following main families:

• Cylindrical parts : These are the basis of turning. They include any component with constant or stepped diameters, such as shafts, drive shafts, pins, bolts, bushings, sleeves, and guide columns.

• Tapered parts : These are characterized by a gradual and uniform variation in diameter. They are crucial for precise fits and joints, such as in Morse tapers, valve stems, or injection nozzles.

• Threaded parts : Thanks to the precision of the carriage movement, screws and nuts with non-standard measurements or pitches can be manufactured, as well as lead screws that convert rotary motion into linear motion.

• Parts with complex shapes : These combine multiple geometries to create functional components. Clear examples include pulleys with their grooves, flanges, discs, and handles with knurled areas to improve grip.

Basic operations for manufacturing these parts

The creation of the aforementioned parts is achieved through a series of fundamental operations that every lathe operator must master. These are the most important:

• Cylindrical turning : This is the most common operation and consists of machining the outer surface of the piece to obtain a specific and uniform diameter.

• Facing : This is done to obtain a flat surface perpendicular to the axis of rotation, typically on the faces of the piece.

• Boring : Unlike cylindrical turning, this operation machines the internal diameter of a pre-existing hole to bring it to a precise size and with a good finish.

• Threading : This involves creating a helical thread on the outer or inner surface of the piece, using a tool with a suitable profile.

• Knurling : It is a cold forming process that creates a rough pattern on the surface of the part to facilitate gripping.

• Cutting : This is the final operation used to cut the finished piece from the rest of the raw material.

Practical examples of parts made on a parallel lathe

While parallel lathes are ideal for prototypes and one-off parts, the mass production of components like flanges or stepped shaft sets reveals their limitations compared to CNC technology. Efficiency, repeatability, and cost per part change dramatically when making the technological leap.

To visualize the real impact on return on investment (ROI), let's compare the manufacturing of a series of 100 stepped axes :

Success Story: Optimization in the Tool and Die Industry

A customer in the mold-making industry reduced the manufacturing time for a set of guide columns from 4 hours on a parallel lathe to just 1.5 hours with one of our CNC lathes. In addition to the dramatic time reduction, they improved dimensional accuracy and, most importantly, freed up the skilled operator to perform other, higher-value tasks.

Taking this leap requires investment, and at Vurcon we ensure it's both profitable and secure. Our value-for-money philosophy doesn't mean "cheap," but "smart": we use robust cast iron frames and key components from recognized brands to guarantee long-term reliability, without the added cost of unnecessary features.

Furthermore, we mitigate investment risks with comprehensive support : fast after-sales service with guaranteed spare parts stock to minimize downtime and complete training through the Vurcon Academy so that your operators are productive from day one.

Sectors where parts made on a parallel lathe are used

The versatility of the lathe, both conventional and CNC, makes it indispensable in a multitude of industrial sectors that depend on high-precision components.

• Manufacturing and general machining industry : It is the backbone for the production of intermediate goods and short series, offering unparalleled flexibility.

• Automotive and aerospace industry : Crucial for rapid prototyping, tooling manufacturing and spare parts for vehicles and aircraft.

• Mold and weapon manufacturing : Essential for creating high-precision components, such as cores and ejectors for molds or specialized parts for the defense sector.

• Industrial maintenance : The reference tool for on-site repair and manufacturing of damaged parts, avoiding long waiting times.

• Jewelry : Allows the creation of custom designs and high-precision pieces that require expert control.

• Education and training : It is the fundamental machine in technical centers to teach the principles of machining to new generations of professionals.

If your company operates in any of these sectors and is looking to improve its production capacity, modernizing your machinery is the way to go.

Ready to take your production to the next level and explore the advantages of CNC technology with excellent value for money? Contact our team of specialists for personalized advice and discover how Vurcon machinery can optimize the efficiency and profitability of your workshop.