Differences Between A CNC Milling Machine And A CNC Lathe Machine

CNC, or Computer Numerical Control, is a machine that is operated by a single push-button system using numbers that are attached to pre-programmed tasks. CNC is most commonly associated with CNC milling machines and CNC laser machines. However, there are also CNC lathes as well. Here are the key differences between a CNC milling machine and a CNC lathe in a machine shop. 

The Lathe Turns and Cuts

A CNC milling machine cuts, but usually only on one or two planes. The lathe, on the other hand, cuts on multiple axes, all while spinning or rotating the material to be cut. Like most other non-computerized lathes, this lathe will load and spin any size and any type of material while the material is cut to create a unique product. Spindles and fancy chair backs or chair legs are some of the most common items created by lathes. 

The Milling Machine Has Thousands of Tools and Applications

A lathe does amazing things, but the milling machine does too. It has thousands of number codes and applications, plus hundreds of tools. The lathe is a little more limited, given the nature of its main tasks. Still, if you want something perfectly cut in three dimensions, the lathe is the right machine. 

Both Machines Can Exist in the Same Machine Shop, but the Lathe Is Used for Special Projects Only

Unless you do a lot of special projects for work or for your company, the lathe may not get much use. If special projects are all your company does, then the lathe may get more use than the milling machine, but only slightly. Of course, having a CNC lathe machine in the shop means that you can always recruit more clients looking for special projects that can only be created on the lathe. 

Lathes Cost Less Than the Milling Machines

Lathes take up less room and cost less than the milling machines. It probably has a lot to do with all of the additional features, tools, codes, and tasks that go into the milling machines. If your company does not have a lathe but is seriously considering purchasing one, it is a good idea to buy a lathe that is the same make as your milling machines. Some of the tools used in the milling machines can be used in the lathes, and vice versa, a useful feature if one tool in a machine breaks, and you still need to use that particular tool. 

For more information about milling machines, contact a CNC Lathe Machine Shop such as Aero Mechanism Precision.