Turning and Slotting Hybrid Lathe: An Excellent Choice for High-Efficiency Machining

The lathe is one of the most common, fundamental, and indispensable machine tools in the machining industry. Whether at domestic machine tool exhibitions in Shanghai, Beijing, or Dongguan, the most frequently displayed machines are always lathes, turn-milling centers, and machining centers. Both large and small manufacturers rely on lathes for production. As automation, machining efficiency, and precision requirements continue to rise, modern lathes are constantly evolving-shifting from single turning operations to multi-process machining, from mechanical turrets to servo turrets, and from single-spindle machines to dual-spindle and dual-channel CNC configurations.

This article introduces a hybrid lathe designed specifically for CV joint production lines, focusing on turning and slotting operations. Based on an in-depth understanding of market needs, and combining rough turning, finish turning, and slotting processes, we developed a lathe with stronger machining capability, higher efficiency, and broader adaptability. It provides a stable and efficient solution for automotive parts manufacturers.

I. Background and Application Needs of Hybrid Turning–Slotting Lathes

Exhibition Insights: Lathes Remain the Market's Central Focus

At machine tool exhibitions, the number of lathes showcased is always among the highest. From general-purpose lathes to turn-milling machines, from gang-type machines to turret-type lathes, and from single-spindle to dual-spindle models, lathes appear in a wide range of configurations. This reflects a simple truth: the market demand for lathes is enormous, and they represent the foundational productivity of the cutting-machining industry. Regardless of company size, lathes are essential for high-volume turning of automotive parts, mechanical components, robotic joints, and more.

For CV joint machining, components such as the tripod housing require high quality and stable performance in rough turning and finish turning. Slotting operations place even higher demands on lathe torque output, turret rigidity, and precise tool indexing. Therefore, when selecting a lathe, manufacturers must consider spindle performance, machine rigidity, turret configuration, and automation compatibility.

II. Structural Features of the Turning–Slotting Hybrid Lathe

Machining Capacity: Ideal for Medium-Size Components

This hybrid lathe provides the following machining capacities:

Maximum turning length: 500 mm

Maximum turning diameter: 300 mm

Maximum swing diameter: 400 mm

These parameters make the lathe suitable for machining tripod housings, automotive components, and other mechanical parts. It supports rough turning, finish turning, and precise slotting with excellent stability.

Turret Structure: The Core of Slotting Performance

The key to high efficiency slotting lies in its 8 station precision servo turret:

Supports nearest-tool selection, reducing tool change time

Equipped with quick-change tooling, allowing rapid replacement of slotting cutters and turning tools

High rigidity turret design ensures stable cutting without vibration

For components such as tripod housings that require slotting, turret stability has a direct impact on machining efficiency and tool life.

Tailstock Design: Enhancing Lathe Machining Accuracy

The lathe is equipped with a fully adjustable hydraulic tailstock or programmable tailstock, enabling:

Higher center alignment accuracy for long-shaft parts

Balanced axial support during rough and finish turning

Improved overall machining stability with reduced vibration

Spindle Performance: High Precision and High Rigidity

The lathe uses a high rigidity precision spindle unit featuring:

High speed capability

High torque output

Excellent thermal stability

Spindle performance directly affects slotting-especially during intermittent cutting-and influences metal removal rate during rough turning, making it a critical technology of the lathe.

Automation Integration Capability

Modern lathes must not only machine parts but also connect seamlessly to automation systems. This machine supports:

Robotic loading/unloading

Automatic material storage

Automatic measurement systems

Flexible production lines

This allows the lathe to operate in high-throughput environments and maintain continuous production.

III. Advantages of the Lathe in Tripod Housing Machining

Rough Turning of Tripod Housing Surfaces

During rough turning, the lathe must provide strong torque output and maintain high structural rigidity to achieve large cutting depths and high efficiency. The spindle and slide structure of this machine ensures excellent turning stability and consistent surface quality.

Slotting of Tripod Housings

Slotting operations place demanding loads on the lathe:

Slotting tools experience intermittent impact

Turret rigidity must be extremely high

Frequent tool changes are required

With a high-rigidity turret, quick-change tooling, and precise servo control, this lathe performs smooth, stable slotting and ensures consistent dimensional accuracy and surface finish.

IV. Additional Lathe Models to Meet Different Machining Needs

Besides this specialized turning–slotting hybrid lathe, we offer multiple other lathe models:

Multi-Function Lathes

Capable of multiple operations including turning, drilling, and tapping-these are the most versatile general-purpose lathes.

Double-End Lathes

Simultaneously machine both ends of shaft-type components, significantly improving production efficiency.

Twin-Spindle Lathes

Allow A and B spindles to process workpieces concurrently, completing both ends in a single setup-ideal for high efficiency machining.

A Broad Range of Structural Configurations

Vertical lathes: compact footprint, ideal for parts with high center of gravity

Slant-bed lathes: excellent chip removal and suited for high-speed machining

Gang-type lathes: ultra-fast tool changes for small precision components

Turret lathes: strong machining capability for complex geometries

Different structures vary in footprint, machining complexity, and cutting ability. Users can choose the most suitable lathe based on their specific workpieces.

V. Core Technical Advantages of the Lathe

1. Dual-Channel CNC System

A dual channel lathe provides:

Simultaneous machining on both sides

Ability to execute different programs

Non-interfering operations for higher productivity

This greatly enhances overall production efficiency.

2. Ball Screw Pre-Stretch Technology

During high-speed operation, heat causes ball screws to elongate. This lathe uses:

Servo motors

High precision ball screws

Pre-stretch (pre-tension) technology

This prevents thermal deformation and ensures long-term machining accuracy.

3. High-Performance Servo Spindle Motor

The servo spindle delivers:

High torque

High speed

Fast response

Rapid acceleration and deceleration

It is the key enabling high-efficiency slotting and precision turning.

Conclusion: Hybrid Lathes Empower More Efficient Production Lines

In turning applications--whether rough turning, finish turning, or slotting-a high-performance lathe is essential for achieving both efficiency and accuracy. This turning–slotting hybrid lathe, with its powerful spindle, rigid turret, excellent automation capability, and wide range of structural configurations, is an ideal choice for automated, high efficiency production lines.

Whether in the automotive industry, CV joint component manufacturing, or precision mechanical machining, a reliable and high-performance lathe ensures stable, efficient production and strengthens long-term competitiveness.