This is another flat bed lathe with turrets. On this Mazak lathe, we replaced the axis motors and drives with new AC brushless units.
The spindle drive is a constant AC motor with a 16 gear headstock. To simplify part programming, we created PLC logic to allow the operator to enter spindle speed required, and let the CNC select the proper gear range that gives the closest speed. We also added Constant Surface Speed (CSS) to improve tool life and part finish. The CNC now automatically shifts gears as the turning radius changes.
The spindle drive is a constant AC motor with a 16 gear headstock. To simplify part programming, we created PLC logic to allow the operator to enter spindle speed required, and let the CNC select the proper gear range that gives the closest speed. We also added Constant Surface Speed (CSS) to improve tool life and part finish. The CNC now automatically shifts gears as the turning radius changes.