topic Re: is this possible in a mill turn lathe? in Fusion Manufacture Forum

is this possible in a mill turn lathe?

safiredesignengineers — Fri, 17 Jul 2020 08:24:15 GMT

Hi Group

i just got a new mill turn lathe and i wanted to know if it is possible to machine a component as per the enclosed file?

Re: is this possible in a mill turn lathe?

Anonymous — Fri, 17 Jul 2020 12:03:07 GMT

Of course it's possible, for machine with only C axis, Rotary is best option, for machine with Y axis, let your imagination run wild.

Re: is this possible in a mill turn lathe?

safiredesignengineers — Sat, 18 Jul 2020 08:33:28 GMT

Hi Vic

thankyou for your reply, this is my first multi axis / multi process machine and it has lots of moving bits 🙂

I am just trying to get my head around what i can do with it and how i go about programming it. i think one of the main areas i need to learn is tool orientations / where to place my X,Y,Z location when milling and also when and what strategy to use on a job.
I will be looking on youtube for some inspirational videos..

on this part is it possible to rotate the C axis and have a turning tool rough out the 3d shape? i.e the turning tool will need to go in and out in sync with the c axis..

from what i see on the turning in fusion it sets a plane / section through the part and then uses this 2d section to calculate the cam side, is it possible for turning to look at the actual 3d profile and create cutting paths to machine the 3d part / shape?

once i start to get a grip on what i can do and the best strategies i am sure it will be as you say "let your imagination run wild" 🙂

Re: is this possible in a mill turn lathe?

Anonymous — Sat, 18 Jul 2020 15:14:52 GMT

So it looks like you have one with Y axis, smart, do it right or don't do it. Machines without Y axis have limited use and people often regret not stepping up another notch.

Now, you have to separate turning and milling, although it is possible to turn hexagon by using C axis and turning tool, same is not true for arbitrary shapes. You turn round shapes concentric with Z axis and you mill everything else.

For most millwork on bar face, use tool in axial orientation, parallel with Z axis.

For most work on OD of the part,use tool in radial orientation, tool perpendicular to Z axis.

I say "most" in both cases because there are times when that will not be the only option in either case.

As far as learning the basics, there are training materials up there at the top of the forum page, dig around.

Also, if you search words related to mil-turn work you will dig up many posts with practical examples of projects that include assortment of tool paths, I have my fingers in many of them because that's what I do every day.

Rotary tool path is no longer free so that cuts you off in some cases where that was the key choice but if you find it useful, let your wallet speak.

Re: is this possible in a mill turn lathe?

Anonymous — Sat, 18 Jul 2020 19:11:56 GMT

Here is one way, not the only way, just one I selected as first crack at it. Last side uses remaining stock to prevent tip from collapsing and breaking off, so while things are possible in theory, one major aspect of machining is proving it and choosing the way to accomplish it.

Re: is this possible in a mill turn lathe?

safiredesignengineers — Sun, 19 Jul 2020 09:23:34 GMT

hi vic

thankyou for you input it is most helpful 🙂

i needed a new lathe and i wanted to explore automated machining and i got offered a great deal on a new package so i went for it.

I have gone from a simple 2 axis cnc lathe with manual tool change to a machine with C axis, y axis, live tooling, parts catcher, sub spindle and more..

its a big step but a good one, once i have learned how it all works i will be putting it to good use.

Re: is this possible in a mill turn lathe?

safiredesignengineers — Sun, 19 Jul 2020 09:26:43 GMT

Hi Vic

thats great thankyou.

it gives me a good example of how to set up the datum's on the milling 🙂