How to Achieve Flexible Production with Turn-Mill Machining Lathe

Milling and turning centers utilize multi-axis linkage technology to complete multiple processes such as turning, milling, drilling, and tapping in a single setup. This integration of multiple processes reduces the number of setups and machining time, thereby enhancing production efficiency.

The machines adopt a modular design, with core components like spindles, tool magazines, and guideways that can be freely combined or upgraded. This design not only enhances the machine's flexibility but also facilitates quick adjustments according to different machining requirements.

Equipped with automation units, such as automatic loading and unloading systems, automatic tool change systems (ATC), and pallet exchange devices (APC), these machines achieve continuous unmanned operations. These automated functions support the machines to work normally during night shifts and weekends, addressing labor shortages while increasing machine utilization rates.

Intelligent control systems, through CNC systems and intelligent control algorithms, enable efficient mixed-line production of a variety of small-batch parts. The control system can automatically adjust the machining process according to the scheduling information from the upper-level computer, quickly switching between different machining objects.

Some milling and turning centers are equipped with quick change devices, such as tool holder installation plates and their power tool holders that can quickly adjust their lateral and longitudinal positions relative to the machine bed. By rotating the tool holder installation plate, the machine can quickly switch between turning and milling, significantly improving machining efficiency.

The robot integrated control system can automatically change the workpiece gripper in advance according to the accurate completion time of the parts on each machine, achieving timely automatic switching of the workpiece gripper.

Flexible manufacturing systems (FMS) can integrate multiple milling and turning centers to achieve automated machining of a variety of small-batch parts. Through line-side libraries and dynamic scheduling systems, the system can flexibly arrange machining tasks according to the machining progress of the parts, ensuring that each machine continuously operates without interruption.

Quick change and automation significantly reduce changeover and debugging times. For example, a precision parts manufacturer using milling and turning centers shortened changeover time from 4 hours with traditional equipment to just 15 minutes, increasing production efficiency by 60%.

Automation units and flexible production lines support continuous machine operation in unmanned conditions, further enhancing production efficiency.

Through automation and intelligent control systems, machine utilization rates can be increased from 40%-50% for single machines to as high as 90%, and up to 95% in some cases. This high utilization rate not only improves production efficiency but also reduces the unit cost of equipment.

Flexible production systems can quickly adapt to the production needs of a variety of small-batch parts. Machines can quickly adjust machining programs, tools, and fixtures according to different machining tasks. This flexibility enables companies to better respond to market changes and customer demands.

Automation and unmanned operations reduce the dependence on labor. For example, with the help of flexible production lines, a workshop that originally required 24 people to operate continuously can now be run with only 10 people, achieving a minimally staffed or even unmanned operation.

The high-precision machining capabilities and automated control systems of milling and turning centers ensure the stability and consistency of the machining process. By reducing the number of setups and machining errors, product quality is significantly improved.

Milling and turning centers are capable of machining complex geometric shapes and slender shaft parts, making them particularly suitable for high-precision and complex-shaped parts.