Universal Lathe

Thanks to their versatility, universal lathes can perform a variety of operations. These operations include the following:

Turning: It is the most basic operation and allows the outer diameter of the workpiece to be cut and shaped. The cutting tool removes chips from the material while the workpiece rotates.

Internal Turning: A process used to machine the inside of the workpiece. This is done to enlarge holes or to machine internal surfaces.

External Threading: This is the process of threading the outer surface of the workpiece. This process is used to create screws and similar threaded connections.

Internal Threading: It is the process of threading the inside of the workpiece. Internal threaded connections or similar threaded internal surfaces are formed.

Hole Drilling: It is the process of axially drilling holes in the workpiece. This process is used to create holes in the centre of the workpiece or at a certain depth.

Grooving: The process of making grooves in the outer or inner surface of the workpiece. These grooves can be used for O-ring slots, keyways and similar features.

Cutting (Separation): The process of cutting a workpiece in half or cutting it to a certain length.

Surface Turning: It is the process performed to smooth the surface of the workpiece or to bring it to a certain surface quality.

Cone Turning: It is the process of turning the workpiece into a conical shape. This process is used to create conical parts with different diameters in the axial direction.

Profile Turning: It is the process of creating a specific profile on the outer or inner surface of the workpiece. This enables the machining of complex geometric shapes.

Polishing: The process of polishing or smoothing the surface of the workpiece.

In addition to these basic operations, universal lathes can also perform more complex and customised operations with a variety of special tools and attachments. This flexibility makes them indispensable in many industries such as metalworking, woodworking and plastics processing.

The size and capacity of universal lathes vary over a wide range depending on the model and manufacturer. In general, however, they are defined by the following parameters:

Maximum Workpiece Length (Distance Between Workbenches): Universal lathes are generally capable of workpiece lengths between 500 mm and 3000 mm. This value indicates the longest workpiece the lathe can process.

Maximum Workpiece Diameter (Swing Diameter): It can vary between 250 mm and 1000 mm on the bed. This is the maximum diameter that the workpiece can rotate on the bed.

Swing Diameter (Over Chip Drawer): A larger diameter is usually provided for machining larger workpieces on the chip drawer, which can range from 150 mm to 800 mm.

Spindle Bore Diameter: Universal lathes usually have a spindle bore diameter between 30 mm and 100 mm. This refers to the maximum diameter that the workpiece or bar can pass through the spindle bore of the machine.

 Power Capacity: Motor power usually ranges from 1.5 kW to 15 kW. Motor power affects the type of materials that can be processed and the performance of the machine.

Weight and Physical Dimensions: Universal lathes can weigh from about 500 kg up to 5000 kg or more. Physical dimensions also vary greatly, but typically can be 2 metres long and 1 metre wide or larger.

These features reflect the versatility of universal lathes and their ability to adapt to different machining needs. Each lathe is optimised for specific machining capacities and applications.

Cutting accuracy on universal lathes varies depending on the quality of the lathe used, the type of cutting tool and the skill of the operator. Generally, such lathes can operate with micron-level precision and can make precise cuts within a tolerance range of ±0.01 mm. However, in high-precision work, proper tool selection, correct workpiece fixturing and fine adjustments can significantly affect the surface quality and dimensional accuracy achieved. For this reason, universal lathes are widely used in both roughing and finishing processes, and successful results can also be achieved in high-precision production.

The first important factor to consider when buying a universal lathe is the technical specifications and capacity of the machine. It is very important to choose a lathe suitable for the dimensions and material type of your workpieces. The maximum workpiece length (inter-counter distance) and diameter (swing diameter) must match the dimensions of the materials to be machined. In addition, the spindle bore diameter, motor power and overall structural rigidity of the machine must meet the performance required by your operations. Cutting accuracy and the overall accuracy of the machine should also be taken into consideration, as these characteristics directly affect the quality of the workpieces.

The brand reputation and after-sales service support of the lathe to be purchased should also be considered. Reliable and well-known brands usually offer longer-lasting and durable products. In addition, factors such as spare parts supply and technical service support are critical for the long-term use of the machine and maintenance costs. Considering all these factors, choosing a lathe that meets your technical requirements and fits your budget will increase your satisfaction and productivity in the long run.

We provide the fastest service to our customers with our rich spare parts stock and professional service network. Original spare parts are supplied by Foreman instead of third party vendors. You can contact us when you encounter any problem with Foreman universal lathes.